AT and UDL

This article discussed the assistive technology and the universal design for learners. My only experience with Assistive Technology has come with my present job at Hadley Middle School. I have seen many of our special needs students, especially if they are placed within the intensive needs classroom. These students have small computers that they can use for talking, or for better understanding of class work. I feel our school does an excellent job of addressing our special needs students.

As far as the concept of universal design for learners (UDL), this is a new concept for me. I have learned about the Americans with Disability Act in school before but never about this UDL. The whole idea behind UDL is a very simple but important idea. UDL is basically reducing barriers and increasing opportunities for the widest range of users. I believe that my building is very friendly and accessible to all students. My building is one story tall, with wide hallways. I have seen our administration and special education department work together in multiple cases to make sure all students are getting the best possible education.

Most schools are faced with budgets constraints and cuts however I believe special education is the one area where funding is fairly abundant and that is very important. Even though technology has become very visible and abundant in schools the devices that special education students use are still very expensive. That makes funding even more important because any benefits assistive technology can provide needs to be taken advantage of for the students benefits.