‘Special Education Technology in the classroom’ video

Wow! I’ve just finished watching the video titled ‘Special Education Technology in the Classroom’ (1992) and have to say that it provided some very motivating and moving images about how effective technology can be in the special education classroom.

Computers and technology can provide special needs students with access to learning and enable them to produce the same outcomes as mainstream students. Technology can not only improve reading, writing, speaking & listening but even provide the opportunity to do these activities for the first time. It can allow students to have control – to be involved with their own lives.

By schools having technology available to their students it will build confidence, self esteem, respect, cooperation and provide success. It can broaden and develop language, expand the students’ audience (such as publishing their material) and develop technical knowledge and skills.

Technology today allows students to connect with what is happening in their local community and the global community.

For students with severe disabilities, technology is an opportunity to participate, learn basic communication skills, observe cause and effect and can also be used to motivate their learning desire.

A quote from the video I believe is quite apt:

“Access to technology is a right, not a privilege, for students with special educational needs and should be planned for within and beyond the school environment”.

REFERENCE:

Special education technology in the classroom [videorecording], (1992).  videocassette (VHS) (44 min.), UTS call no: 371.9043/SPEC/16