Journal 4

One Size Never Fits All (Nets - 2)

Courduff, J. (2011). One size never fits all: tech integration for special needs. Learning and Leading with Technology, 38(8), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-june-july-2011.aspx

Courduff explains the obvious, that not people are the same; however in this article she applies this idea to the use of technology.  When working with any student, it is impossible to apply the thought of a cookie cutter as not everyone learns the same, thus various strategies need to be implemented to incorporate technology into their lives.  Often, special needs students also need speech therapy; these clients use augmentative and alternate communication (AAC) devices, speech to text devices, as well as microphones and headphones.  It would be beneficial to both students and teachers if the technology is utilized properly and if everyone involved understood how to use it, thus the three tiered training system.

Is the three tiered training system better than other training systems?

The three tiered training system allows teachers a better understanding of the technological tools used by their students since they are given time to learn the devices.  The students also show the teachers how they use the devices, and teachers also have the support of their colleagues.

What significance does the speech-to-text have in a classroom?

Speech-to-text allows students whom have difficulty comprehending writing, spelling, grammar, etc. to have the words spelled out for them.  This allows the students to visually see the words as they are spoken, and possibly aiding them in their struggles.