Monday, September 22, 2008

Assistive Tech start

Since I'm cowriting a book on library services to youth with autism, I thought I'd better do the CSLA web 2.0 on assistive tech. I've also encouraged my students to do so.
As far as lifelong learning goes, that's how I was introduced at Redwood HS when I was hired there as a TL. I think I display all the habits (toolbox is probably hardest when one doesn't know a subject). Easiest is being responsible.
Comments on modules:
Explore the Job Accommodation Network to make the learning process better for a student with a disability: BROKEN LINK. Nor do I like the layout of the Blind website; I don't see where it's "easy" to show students how to use Braille0-- and it's not free. Simple accommodations link is also broken. I have my own list of simple accommodations: from desktop solutions to clear PPT backgrounds, from pencil grips to planners, from schedule charts to captioning.
The iCommunicator, on the other hand, I love!
I note issues about assistive technology in my tech class, of course, but also note it in the curriculum class and management class.
The video "talk" was also fascinating. I browsed through several videos on autism, which were enlightening. I wonder how a youth with autism would relate to them?