Thursday, September 6, 2012

iPads in the Special Education Classroom



The iPad is a great tool for special educators to use in their classrooms because it can be used in a variety of ways. The design is great for students with special needs because it easily travels, is user-friendly, has a cool touch-screen and is smaller compared to other products used by special educators. Its price also makes it cost-friendly when compared to other options. The iPad also has numerous functions and can run many different kinds of applications, or apps. 

The iPad can also be used to track behavior. Apps such as Behavior Tracker Pro can be used by both professionals and parents to monitor student behavior. The app allows them to take notes and record video of behavior. The information compiled can even be turned into visual representation to show progress overtime.


Other Useful Apps:

 iPads are also being used to help with students who have difficulty communicatingProloqu02Go is an app that allows students to choose from pictures that then help them formulate thoughts, wants, and needs that then become verbalized by the app. This allows users to communicate with others so that they can be understood.

        Other Useful Apps:
Special education teachers can also use iPads in conjunction with their lesson plans. By using the iPad,  daily activities such as snack time can be used as a learning opportunity. Students are able to ask for what they want using the iPad communication apps. This allows the teachers to monitor progress of each individual student. 


Other Useful Apps:

iPads can also be used to help students in reading. Students with communication challenges can have the iPad read out loud to them. This allows students to become more independent and allows them to take ownership of what they are doing inside and outside of school. iPads are a great tool for both professionals and students in special education. 


Other Useful Apps:

References

Dun, J. (2010). Retrieved from http:edudemic.com/2010/12/the-ultimate-guide-to-using-ipads-in-the-classroom/

Gilbert, K. (Photographer). (n.d). Retrieved from http://www.herald-mail.com/news/tristate/hm/new-ipads-help-waynesboro-students-learn-20-002,0,4420740.photo

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