Computers in the Classroom

Although there are many new and advanced technologies that can be used in the classroom, we must not forget about the most simple, but necessary device...the computer! Apple and Microsoft both have kits that are made specially for the classroom. For example, Apple has carts full of computers, iPads, and even iPods. The carts include an abundance of one material so that every student can be using a computer, iPad, or iPod at the same time. The teacher can take advantage of this by giving assignments that require a computer and then give the students class time to complete it.

LANSchool

http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech_in_the_classroom/lan-school.shtml

The new software LANSchool, is a computer program used only by teachers. Through this program, teachers have the ability to share their screen with the class and even share them with individual students. This way the students can see exactly what the teacher wants them to see and there is no need to mess around with an ELMO or other old technologies. The LANSchool also allows teachers to monitor what their students are doing on the computers. They have the ability to black out their screens, block applications, and even lock keyboards while sitting at their own desk. This technology is fantastic because it eliminates the distraction of walking around trying to monitor students' computer behavior.

Reading Machines

For students with low vision, there are many assistive technologies that help them to see in and out of the classroom. Popular devices are the ones that scan objects and then read them aloud or show them on a computer screen. These allows the student to scan any item he or she cannot see well enough to read and then understand what it says. They are also portable so that they can be brought many places.

Assistive Technology for Blindness

There are many computer softwares that help a student who is blind. The most common is the Text to Speech software. These programs allow the book or computer document to be read to the student, so that he doesn't have to miss out while everyone else reads it. For example, there is a talking dictionary, a digital talking book player, and even a talking checkbook. Microsoft Word has also created a software that allows you to scan items and then listen to them being read from the computer. These many different programs will allow the students to learn in ways other than reading braille. They are also reasonably priced, which means that they can be more available in schools.

Speech Generating Devices

Speech Generating Devices are an assistive technology that is used with and for students that have difficulty communicating. Some devices are keyboard objects. These allow the students to type on them and then the keyboard will speak whatever the student types. Another device is a computer screen that has pictures on it. The student can touch the pictures to tell the teacher what he wants, how he feels, etc. When he or she touches the pictures, the computer will say it aloud. There are many different variations of these assistive devices, but they are all extremely vital to a students' communication, in the classroom and at home. I think these are fantastic, but unfortunately, they are also expensive. I hope that in the future, everyone will realize how important and awesome they are and the price will not be an issue.