"Using Compensating Technology With Special-Need Children" by Ed Clement

This is another one of the "reflective or informative entries regarding technology and/or teaching."

I found an interesting article which addresses both technology and special needs in the classroom. Here is the link: http://www.teachersnetwork.org/ntol/howto/incorptech/c13456,.htm

The author, Ed Clement, describes meeting a millionaire who was in a wheelchair because he was crippled. Curious at how he became a millionaire in spite of his disability, Clement asked the man. The man responded, "technology."

As the author points out, sometimes students with special needs won't be able to do things in a classroom the traditional way. He lists products, simple though they may be, that he uses to help his students with special needs:

-Calcuator: for all students, to help with mathematical and literacy deficiencies
-Pocket translator: for ELL students
-Talking pocket dictionaries: for students who struggle with reading or are bi-lingual
-Pocket spell-checker: for any student who struggles with writing
-PC/Internet: for, the author says, the purpose of finding grant money for additional technological devices

I find it interesting that such simple technology could make a noticable impact on the progress of special needs students. Imagine what the students could do with more advanced technology.