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 * Assistive Technology Reflection**

The videos and websites offer a wide variety of information and resources about assistive technologies. I was familiar with some of the information but was surprised to learn the extent of resources offered on the Apple and Microsoft websites. It makes sense that these leaders in technology would offer services and I was pleased to see major corporations offering assistive support like this. Also, from the videos, I learned just how some of the assistive technologies work, specifically the communication aids.

I was very impressed with the resources available on the ATTO site. The AT Basics section, in particular, is one I want to remember to use in my preparation to become a teacher. This section offers guided instruction on assessing AT student need. The ATTO tutorials for using specific hardware and software are also extremely useful.

Available technology offers students with diverse learning n eeds opportunities they never had in the past. Students with cerebral palsy, for example, can now use computers even though they have limited use of their arms and hands. The voice recognition software now gives these students the opportunity to succeed in school and the workplace later in life. Communication devices are giving nonverbal students a voice. Old assumptions about the intelligence and achievement capabilities of students with different needs are being thrown out the window as we learn that they are capable when given the appropriate assistance.

I once worked in a classroom for children with autism. One of the nonverbal students had a communication device, though it was not quite as advanced as the one Ellen used in the video. Without the device, it was easy to assume that the student was not paying attention and it was difficult to tell when learning was taking place. The use of the device helped the teachers to see that the instruction was effective and eased frustrations for the student. While this device was extremely helpful to the student that had it, there were still others who did not have such a device. The access to resources was varied. It made me more aware of how school systems need to provide assistive technologies for the students who need them.

I now know that when I become a teacher, I will need to be careful in assessing student needs. Not every tool will have the same success for every student so it will be important for me to know how to assess the need and to be creative in finding solutions. I will carry the knowledge that a ll students are capable of achievement when given the right support and assistance. What I find so wonderful about assistive technology is that students who would previously be "left out in the cold" are now able to be included with their peers in general education classrooms. It is generally known that students with Cerebral Palsy are of normal or above-normal intelligence, yet for years these students languished because they didn't have devices to help them communicate or to express their thoughts. I applaud those who work to invent and develop devices that are helpful for those who need them.


 * UDL Reflection**

The learning style survey reiterated what I already knew about myself. Reading and seeing material has always been most effective for me. One study suggestion they suggest is using flash cards. I rarely take the time to do that but it could be helpful for my learning style. I already utilize many of the other techniques suggested. The CAST website is a fantastic resource. The electronic version of //Teaching Every Student in the Digital Age// contained a lot of interesting neuroscience and cognition information. It was interesting to read about the learning networks and how they can differ for different people. I would use this information to evaluate the different needs of my students and offer instruction in various modalities.

Both activities on th

e CAST site reinforced the learning from the reading and made it more concrete. I thought the activities were a creative way to demonstrate the concepts. Overall, I think the CAST site is an excellent resource for developing differentiated instruction. The site offers a vast array of materials that are presented in different ways. I look forward to the chance to use the book builder and lesson builder sections. Just from reviewing them, both look like they will be useful classroom tools. Universal design for learning is a complex idea that is also very logical based on the available research. It makes sense that instruction should take a holistic approach and stray from the one-size-fits-all model of the past. Every person is unique, so it flows that they will also learn in different ways. Instruction should encompass various techniques and be more inclusive.


 * Learning Style Reflection**

After taking the Learning Styles Inventory, I learned that my primary learning style is visual/nonverbal. For the most part, I find this to be true. I prefer to learn in a quiet environment and retain the most information when I study alone. Reading the textbook prior to a lecture helps me synthesize the learning. I take many notes and sometimes rewrite my notes when studying because I can visualize them when I am taking an exam. Charts, videos, and diagrams help me remember material as well. Also, I enjoy some artistic activities in my spare time.

Where I differ from the prescribed learning style is that the material doesn't always have to be pictures or symbols in order for me to remember it well. The simple act of writing something down helps me to remember it. Reading a textbook is crucial for me. I always read before class and find that prepares me for the class and for exams. I do like to keep my notes very organized and have a format I use in taking notes. I make lists and keep a calendar because I can visualize them and remember what I have to do.

Overall, I agree that I am a visual/nonverbal learner. I do have some learning habits that differ from those listed for this style and have other characteristics that fit in other styles. I think very few people fit into one specific style. Understanding different learning styles is important in the classroom. Understanding my own learning style is almost as important as realizing that not everyone will learn in the same way I do. I need to be able to alter my lessons and assignments to appeal to a variety of learning types. I should teach one thing in several different modes in order to appeal to as many learners as possible.

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