leading to missed moments. A portable, multiple-use device like the iPad, on the other hand, becomes more valuable the more it is used. Because it is always ready, new applications are often discovered serendipitously by both teachers and students. Before long, it becomes part and parcel of the learning experience.
Accessibility
The iPad comes pre-installed with several accessibility features that address a variety of learning needs such as text-to-speech, zoom and adjustable font-size. These features are found under the general settings. Meanwhile developers are creating new accessibility features and apps daily. Powerful programs that traditionally required specialized devices and expensive software are now available on a user-friendly device that helps de-stigmatize the use of assistive technology.
Schools have begun pilot programs to explore the accessibility potential that exists to help students overcome learning barriers. In the spring of 2011 the St. Clair County RESA Assistive Technology Committee created an iPad lending library. The following two success stories illustrate the powerful way iPads are enabling students to take charge of their learning.
A student with cerebral palsy, who has limited use of his dominant hand and no functional use of his non-dominant hand, was able to read a chapter book independently. He was able to both read and turn the pages – a task which is very difficult and frustrating for him on a regular basis.
Another student was able to enhance his expressive communication skills stating his wants/needs using an alternative augmentative communication application installed on the iPad.
Other assistive technology examples include uListen, an app that uses the microphone and headphones to amplify sounds and provide hearing assistance, and Dragon Dictation which converts spoken language into text.
Versatility
The iPad combines multiple tools – camera, accelerometer, touch screen, microphone, Internet connectivity and location awareness – that are easily accessed by a variety of apps and are often merged together to create unique features that exceed the value of each tool alone. One example is Noterize, a simple note-taking app that supports handwritten or typed notes while simultaneously recording audio and taking pictures. Compare this with the single-use feature set of a flip cam or digital voice recorder. The iPad is an instructional ecosystem that allows students to quickly utilize customized learning supports based on learning preferences and needs. Creating lessons with a UDL (Universal Design for Learning) approach is more intuitive with an iPad. Tapping into learning modalities through multi-sensory applications can create breakthrough learning experiences for students.
MACULJOURNAL | Winter 2011-12
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