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It is the mission of this website to assist in the development of learning environments that promote Career and Technical Education as well as academic excellence. To provide examples of effective 21st century teaching and learning strategies in order to assist in the development of more engaged and motivated classrooms. To provide multimedia Podcasts and articles to facilitate an understanding of how to implement technology and multimedia in classrooms regardless of content area. To encourage independent and personalized learning by teaching students to enjoy the process of learning. To assist teachers in becoming facilitators of learning.
Digital Tools for Special Education
As technology continues to infiltrate the education field, it becomes especially important for teachers to find effective ways to engage all types of learners. However, research has shown that many special education students in particular benefit from using technology devices, such as iPods and iPads, to improve their hand-eye coordination and communication skills. These devices can address the students’ personal learning needs, provide them with a tactile platform on which to learn, and allow them to participate in similar activities as their regular education peers.
Mary Ellen Marnholtz, the Communications Coordinator in the Wausau (WI) School District, believes the iPad is “an amazing communication and learning tool that strengthens a student's connection to achievement, particularly for students with individual learning plans.” The Wausau School District has purchased 100 iPads and iPods for both student and staff member use, and provides both ongoing training and support in order to “maximize the technology's many features.”
Using these devices allows special education students to reinforce the skills taught in the classroom and learn at their own pace, while at the same time increasing motivation to succeed. The multitude of apps available to educators can provide extra practice and reinforcement, two factors that are especially important for student achievement in any classroom. Technology has truly opened the doors for endless opportunities to instruct and support our students with special learning needs.
Read the full article: Technology in the classroom enhances learning
