The presentation of this week’s group was very eye-opening for me. Although I previously know about assistive technology (AT), they explained it in a thorough manner which made me realize what types of technology I can use more as an educator. For me, the different types of assistive technologies are very powerful in the context of education, wherein these can help the students in their learning journey, and it can also lighten their load as the learn in the classroom.
To define the term, Assistive Technology (AT) is any form of technology that helps students with or without disabilities to increase or maintain his or her level of functioning. Halpin (n.d.) defines AT as a term that refers to devices or systems designed to help individuals with disabilities perform functions they might otherwise find difficult — devices range from mobility aids (Ex. crutches and wheelchairs) to more digital solutions, like screen readers or software. Halpin’s explanation is more of an overall definition, and not just in the realm of education. On an even broader definition, Rice (2024) defines AT as any device, software or item that improves the experience of learning, working or daily life; AT is frequently used by people with disabilities, however, it can be used by all people in various settings.
The short video below is an introductory guide to assistive technology, concentrating on individuals with disabilities. It explains that there are simple (easier to learn) and also high-tech, or more advanced devices for AT. Furthermore, the video also briefly explains not only devices, but services that are integrated with the devices. What they explained in the video is practical and essential, as they mention that the AT services are as important as the devices/gadgets used to aid the students in their learning. I believe that the devices and services should go hand-in-hand in order to guide the students in a better manner.
Rice (2024) mentioned at least twelve examples of assistive technology in the classroom, which are all useful for use in the classroom. In that list, I have used the learning-management platform Google Classroom, during the surge of online classes when the world experienced the most recent pandemic. Since its release in 2014, Google Classroom has quickly become one of the more popular and common online tools utilized in schools. Furthermore, adoption to this technology rose dramatically with the mass switch to online instruction that followed COVID-19-related school closures (Herold, 2020).
I appreciate Google Classroom because of its convenience and also its assistive technology features, like speech-to-text capabilities that improve accessibility for all the students. The live captions in Google Classroom was also very useful in my own experience. In addition, it has built-in accessibility features such as screen readers, voice typing, and translation (it integrates with Google Translate to enable translation). I also had a blind student previously who really appreciated Google Classroom because it featured a braille display for him, which can be used to read and edit Word documents and PowerPoint presentations. After using Google Classroom for a few years, I realized that
Among the numerous AT programs, I believe that I can utilize and explore more on Speechify, which is a text-to-speech software that captures text and translates it into audio format. This is particularly useful for textbooks, PDF reading assignments and more. This software is compatible with the Google Chrome browser as well as mobile phones (iPhones and Android) and Macintosh computers. I personally have not tried Speechify, but this is a software which will most likely be able to aid my future students in learning.
Assistive technology still has quite a long way to go, however, I believe that it will further improve and be more advanced in the future. While it is true that AT is quite costly for individuals and institutions, these types of technologies definitely improve the learning experiences of individuals. For schools, AT ensures that all students, regardless of their abilities, can fully participate in classroom activities — this means that no one is left behind, whether the student is disabled or not. AT also provides equal opportunities for students who have learning difficulties, making them able to catch up in their studies. Also, overall for society, AT promotes social inclusion — it promotes the active participation of individuals with disabilities in community activities, which is an essential part of social cohesion. In addition, AT enhances the quality of life for individuals with disabilities by providing them with tools and software to navigate daily life more effectively.
Hey Raul,Great post to share! You’ve thoughtfully captured the transformative impact of assistive technology in education. I appreciate how you highlighted both the definitions of AT and its specific applications in the classroom, particularly your experience with Google Classroom. It’s inspiring to see how tools like live captions and braille displays can create an inclusive environment where no student is left behind. Your mention of Speechify as a potential tool to explore further shows you are committed to continually enhance accessibility for your students. I also love how you connected AT to promoting social inclusion and improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Hi Raul, wonderful post and great video that definitely helped me classify different types with AT in my head! Your post opened my eyes to the fact that Google Classroom has some accessibility issues – I would definitely love to take a look at some of them. I will also try out Speechify! Thanks for all of the great suggestions.
Hi Raul Chebat
The discussion on assistive technology (AT) this week really struck a chord with me. Even though I already knew about AT, the detailed and clear explanation greatly enhanced my comprehension. It made me think about how I, as a teacher, can better incorporate these technologies into my teaching methods.
The explanations given by Halpin and Rice have assisted in defining the extent of AT, which includes a variety of tools and programs aimed at improving learning, work, and daily activities for all individuals, regardless of ability. I especially liked how the focus was on the different types of AT tools that can be used in education and their great potential.
These resources improve education for students with disabilities and also support all learners by creating an inclusive atmosphere for better learning in the education setting.I am convinced that assistive technology (AT) has the ability to revolutionize education system. In spite of various obstacles, the advantages of AT, such as preventing any student from being left behind and encouraging equal opportunities, are much greater than the disadvantages.