Journal #10

Disabled Bodies, Able Minds: Giving Voice, Movement, and Independence to the Physically Challenged
By Diane Curtis

This article shows how technology is helping students with disabilities accomplish tasks they would not normally be able to do. More specifically, it focuses on Redwood Heights Elementary School in Oakland, California, TACLE (Technology and Augmentative Communication for Learning Enhancement) program. The program is designed to help all students realize their potential through the use of technology to assist them. It also mentions University of Washington’s DO-IT(disabilities, opportunities, internet working, and technology) program that is opening new doors for disabled students with the help of technology.

What opportunities can technology provide for disabled students?
Technology can enable kids to perform a wide array of jobs, assignments, and other tasks that they would normally not be able to complete. Technology also gives these students a better sense of self-confidence, by giving them independence.

How can teachers level the playing field for disabled students?
With a new generation of teachers coming into the workforce, I believe that we can eliminate the labels we put on students and hold them all to high expectations. By including all students with the use of technology instead of aides, it will empower disabled students and encourage learning. We need to educate other teachers and administrators on new technology available and how it is “leveling the playing field” for all students.