The Launch

Day 1 introduced me to the possibilities of "Pic Collage":  my new favourite (free) app- through our paired class introductions using the iPads.  I loved it so much I posted a Mother's Day card to Facebook using it.  Since my mother was out of the country- she loved it!  I have already used it with students as a writing prompt, platform for sequencing, and presentation forum for demonstrating skills and knowledge.  If only there were more stickers;-)

Thankfully we spent some time defining the target primary users of the technology we will be exploring, as you really need to get in the mindset of the needs we will be attempting to provide....keeping in mind that we are trying to provide access to tasks and improve the performance of individuals with disabilities.

Barbara also treated us to a feature of "AT: Back to the Future", where I had a flashback to learning to use software like "KidPix" during my first teaching practicum.  That flashback, however, did NOT include the class compositions that are the norm now and the number of students with disabilities who previously had little to no access to teaching and learning.  The past/ present/ future uses and examples really forced me to consider what a huge role that TIME plays in assessing the learner/AT match (skill sets, needs, milieu, support, task, technology's characteristics).  These factors are in constant motion and continually affected by each other AND time.  We need to keep three filters on during decision-making processes:  functionality, accessibility, and inclusivity.  I can't wait to see universal instructional design materials becoming available to all learners, not targeting students with learning disabilities.