Special students learn with technology--reprinted from Idaho Leads
http://education.boisestate.edu/idaholeads/2012/04/05/special-students-learn-with-technology/
Eileen O’Shea
Non-verbal children in Emmett have been given a voice. It’s a miracle in their world.
For the first time in their lives, 14 autistic and cognitively impaired students in the Emmett School District are communicating their needs, describing their moms and revealing their favorite colors.
“We’re so excited with what’s going on,” said Eileen O’Shea, Emmett’s director of special education.
These children with significant needs have been handed tools — iPads and Smart Phones with applications and educational games — that allow them to communicate and learn in ways they have never experienced. It’s been an eye-opening adventure for their veteran teacher.
“This technology has produced results I didn’t expect,” said
Emmett’s special education teacher Annette Lutes. “I’ve always expected a lot from
my kids — I expect the moon — but we’re on to Jupiter.”
The students thrive with an iPad in their hands. They jump in and out of applications quicker than most adults. Ms. Lutes has learned how much one of her student loves her mother. She has witnessed another one of her students learn the names of colors and different animals. animals. Another student, who has limited use of his hands, uses a laser attached to his head to express
himself through art. These students don’t speak, but they can use keyboards.
“It’s hands-on learning,” Lutes said. “The kids are connected.”
Lutes has had to pry the learning tablets out of the hands of the new and eager learners. She has only two classroom iPads and 14 students. She brings in her own personal equipment to share, but it’s not nearly enough. She desperately wants to get each student their own classroom iPad to accelerate their learning. Lutes is willing to get the $6,000 one dollar at a time — she’s selling raffle tickets for a quilt, among other fundraisers.
“If you could see the way they learn like I do, you would want to get them these tools,’’ Lutes said.
The program in Emmett began through a grant based on strategies for intervention. The district has involved parents through an advisory panel.
“Some Autistic students are not very social but with these iPads, they can interact comfortably with others,’’ O’Shea said. “Students become more motivated, interactive and engaged with technology. It’s so inspiring.”
If you would like to learn more or help these special needs children in Emmett, please contact us in the Idaho Leads program at jenniferswindell@boisestate.edu.
