Throughout this module I have grown to have a better conceptualization
of the necessity of assistive technology for some students. Assistive technology leads to an autonomous
form of education. It allows for differentiated instruction but most importantly
gives student’s voice and choice. Students gain independence and are able to
move forward in ways that they might not otherwise.
I have also developed an
enlightened concept of the necessity for mainstream students to have more
opportunities for technology within his/her learning. It's the
proverbial carrot being dangled when iPad and Chromebooks enter the room. This
is not to discount the true necessity for special needs but to acknowledge its
contrary presence in the room. That said, I’d like to see a movement that
all students at some point get the luxury of assistance through
technology.
Struggles and Triumphs
The ongoing struggle for me within AQ
courses is that they are geared towards contract teachers. I find myself asking for assistance within
each course: how can I modify and or accommodate this activity in order to get
the most out of it?, how can I tackle this activity without reinventing the
wheel? “Choose a student in your class, make changes to your long-range plans”
etc. The luxury a contract teacher has in choosing programming for a
student is knowing the totality of the student’s needs. I can “make a student up” but I don't know
what makes them tick, what’s their price, what sets them off, what engages
them, what encourages them etc. etc. etc. With regular discourse concerning modifications
and accommodations why have the programmers not thought to take into account
supply teachers that have long term goals and need the best platform to
learn/get the most out of the learning.
I also like to ask questions…lots and
lots of questions. Online learning isn’t
the best venue for this need but it does suit other needs. If you have a question regarding
interpretation or clarification you are at the mercy of a timely response;
moving forward is a standstill until a response arrives.
Conversely, there is always amazing and
useful discourse, collaboration and resources within the posts. I love when someone offers me an alternative
or additional way to support my contributions.
I also enjoy sharing all my resources that I am holding onto for future
use.
Within the Professional Knowledge of
the Standards of Practice, members are to strive to understand and reflect on
pedagogy and learning theories that support student development. This course,
among others, keep me current and responsive to the needs of all students.
Continuously moving forward and applying best practices helps me to reflect, understand
and improve my praxis.
My long-term goal is attaining the IICT
Specialist. These assignments, and collaborative discourse will propel me to
this goal. I have and will continue to
enjoy this journey with my peers. I hope
to continue to improve and continue to offer any assistance I can for the
remainder of our time together…
