The following is a response to the Ed Weekly article titled, "Special Ed. Pupils Find Learning Tool in iPad Applications", Volume 30, article #22, March 2nd, 2011.
This article discusses the use of the iPad by special education students. apparently the iPad has a program on it called "Proloquo2Go". This program allows students who struggle with speech and language to communicate. The application allows students to scroll through pictures, words, phrases and sentences to use to communicate. The iPad itself has a touch screen and a fast reaction time, so it is child friendly. The size of the iPad is small enough that it is easy to take with them and use anywhere.
I think this is a magnificent idea for any child but especially those students with special needs. I currently work with a 13 year old boy who has severe cerebral palsey. He cannot speak so he uses an alternative mode of communication called an Eco computer. His device is geared specifically toward him. The communication computer reads his pupil gaze and types out and speaks what it is he would like to say. It is quite impressive and very expensive. I'm mentioning this because I am amazed at how technology has allowed our special education students access to communication. As with the iPad, it is a wonderful way to help those with communication issues and now it is becoming more affordable. I have seen so much change in the way of augmentative communication in the last ten years and I think it is amazing. When I completed my undergrad and graduate work in Speech pathology and Audiology in 2001, the field of Aug. com was starting to really take off. Personal computers were begginning to bridge the gap for those who struggled with communication. I like to see more and more computers being used for this purpose in our schools today. It not only helps the student but the teacher as well.
Computers have changed many lives but especially those with communication impairments. The deaf community for instance has changed considerably by the invent and use of texting. They can now use the phone the same as anyone else. What a fantastic thing! The only part that scares me is trying to keep up with technology at the same rate the students do. It seems that it is changing so fast and so many helpful applications are available that is essential for all teachers to stay ahead of the game.
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