Assistive technology has the ability to play a big role in classroom teaching. Technology can help bring accessibility to a wide range of students and ensure that the learning environment is more successful for a variety of learners. Throughout my current observations the primary piece of technology I see being used is chrome books. I think personally I love the idea of using IPads in the classroom. The IPad has so many apps that can help to assist students in their learning and education. There are a ton of apps out there but here are two apps I have seen in use and explored:

  • Translating apps: Google Translate or Translate Now. These are great for ELL students and the technology has come an incredibly long way. I’ve seen these used by ELL students on phones but I think there is great potential for use on IPads as well.
  • Garage Band: This is an extremely accessible app and one I would think would work well in a music classroom. This could allow students to actively compose and engage in creativity in their day to day learning. Not only that but it would be a great opportunity to engage students who love music but may not love tradition school wind band music. This software is affordable and could be a lot of fun to use in composition based classes.

I love the idea of using assistive technology in the classroom but I also recognize the importance of keeping in mind student health. More specifically looking at how screen time may impact eye health. The youth of today are already exposed to so much screen time in and outside of school so is it a good idea to integrate technology so heavily into the classroom? My answer is yes. Students are using technology and we live in a digital age. We can’t simply ignore that aspect of our students lives. I believe the key to successful technology integration also requires education on how technology may effect health and how to avoid that!

Ironically there is a great app to help keep students aware of their eye health when using technology and that is Love My Eyes. This is an app I have discovered over the course of EDCI 336 and I find it is an easy way to keep myself mindful of my eye health when using technology for long periods of time.

Love My Eyes is only a small example of how you can help protect your students eye health, but I think it is a great option to use. Of course as I said before education is key. We must also be actively teaching our students about the impacts technology can have on them. While also helping to show them ways to be mindful and care for their own health in connection with technology.

As educators it is our job to integrate assistive technology into the classroom, however, we must never forget about the aspects of health that go along with it.

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash