Technology and Self-Regulation
Supporting Student With Differing Abilities
Why Technology Matters
Through emerging technologies (EM), ALL students within DPCDSB will have the opportunity to use the appropriate tools to support academic achievement and further develop learning skills. Teachers have the ability to customize student centred programs that reflect the unique needs and talents of each individual learner. Through the use of technology and gaps in learning are met, students may become less passive participants in their learning and become more active and engaged within their classrooms. As students achieve their voice in their learning, frustration levels decrease as personal needs are met and self-regulation may become more achievable.
Assistive Technology Programs Available in DPCDSB
iOs Technology
iPads have been deployed to Special Education classes with three very unique platforms to meet the needs of unique learners. Teachers have been provided a catalogue of APPS to select specialized programs in communication, visual schedules, sensory development, social narratives, language and mathematics. Key built-in accessibility features support all diverse learners including English Language Learners.
Read&Write Gold / Texthelp
Read&Write is a customizable overlay toolbar that integrates reading, writing, studying, and research support tools. This UDL program is available for use to all students at school and at home.
Kurzweil 3000
Differentiating Learning and Assessment Tools
Technology provides high-quality, ongoing feedback to teachers and students that can help guide the learning process. Digital learning assists students with differing abilities to self-regulate behaviour through sensory supports, calming techniques and thinking strategies.
Sensory supports:
- may include the use of visual schedules, sensory apps and individualized programming that can be supported through iOS devices, online tools and assistive technology programs
Calming Techniques:
- Immediate access to preferred material
Assists student with the expression of personal needs
Enjoyment and motivation to use device
Ease anxiety (use of personal visual schedules, social narratives)
Assistance during transitions
Thinking Strategies:
AT provides all students with a voice and a means of communication
Alternative methods to select tools that make sense for the learning of each student
Students with communication needs will be actively able to participate in class discussions through digital opportunities (blogging, screen chats, video responses)
Students may develop creative problem solving skills and mental flexibility by maintaining a role within their inclusive setting community through peer interaction
Dufferin Peel Catholic District School Board Special Education and Support Services
Website: www.dpcdsb.org
Location: 40 Matheson Blvd W. Mississauga, ON
Phone: (905) 890-1221
Twitter: @DPCDSBSchools
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Assessment, Evaluation, And Reporting In Ontario Schools First Edition, covering Grades 1 to 12
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A Resource Guide
2004