This week in tech we focused on inclusion in education supported by technology. During my K-12 tears, I didn’t personally use adaptive technologies, but I did notice some students using tools like laptops or text-to-speech programs. At the time I didn’t connect these tools to inclusion, but I now understand that they were important in helping create a more equitable learning environment.
In my L2P, I saw how technology can play a key part in supporting inclusion. Adaptive tools like speech-to-text, audio books, and visual supports can help students with diverse learning needs participate with the class. When these tools are used effectively, they allow students to work more independently and feel more confident in their abilities. However, I noticed in the classroom that its success depends on how well the tool is introduced and supported by the teacher. Without proper guidance, students may struggle to use them effectively or may not benefit the way it was intended. For example, in my L2P one of our students who is unable to speak and was learning to use a text-to-speech program was normally given support by his EA. However she was sick one day and they didn’t have a replacement so it was just me and the classroom teacher. The classroom teacher attempted to give him support but she didn’t fully understand how to use the program so she kind of gave up and so did he.
Technology can be such a powerful tool for supporting inclusion in education when it is used thoughtfully. It is not just about having the tools, but how they are implemented to ensure that all students feel supported.
Link to the Assessable Resource Center – British Columbia
Pearson – How Adaptive technology empowers student success: