13.1 Demonstrate the appropriate use of various software and self directed software programs to meet individual learning styles and needs.

Evidence / Artifact:

Here is a link to information on Kidspiration, a software program that helps to visualize and outline topics for written assignments.

Here is a link to information about MathMedia software.  It is an interactive math software program.

Here is a link to information about several different educational software programs for language arts

Reflection:
    It is important as teachers that we realize our students will learn in a variety of ways.  By using some of the programs listed above our students who are visual and kinesthetic learners can greatly benefit.  Kidspiration is a great program for students to organize their thoughts on and create outlines that prepare them for writing great works. They can even add illustrations and transfer the outlines into typing programs such as Microsoft Word.  The math programs can help students increase their skills while still having fun.  The language arts programs can also assist students who like to be interactive and can help students excel in their reading abilities.  The three sources listed above are just a few of the countless programs available to teachers.  Most of these programs incorporate a variety of visual, audio, and interaction.  These programs can reach almost every child in your classroom.  The students become active in and help to create their learning experiences.  By using these and other similar programs we are assuring that all students are being successful in their school experience.  We must allow students to excel in what they do best.  For some students, the software programs you choose could be an influence on their excitement about their learning.
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13.2 List/Use media and technology to support learning for children with special needs.

Evidence / Artifact:

Here is a website that offers information and products that support voice recognition for computers.

Here is a website that offers a variety of braille embossers which have voice activated features and braille printers.

Here is a website that provides information on communication boards for students who are non-verbal.

Reflection:
    Many times our students with special needs can benefit the most from media and technology.  As teachers we must capitalize on this chance to help these students excel in school.  By using things such as voice recognition systems students who have trouble with written expression can simply speak what they want written and have it written for them.  By having this success students can then begin doing this process own their own and their writing abilities would greatly increase.  This program could also be helpful for students who have physical troubles that prevent them from being proficient typists.  Having a voice recognition program can help a large range of students with special needs. It is one of the most versatile technological programs available for use in our current education system.
    Other items such as braille embossers could be helpful for students with visual impairments.  These machines can work with voice recognition or they have keys that also have braille on them.  The printer that is connected prints all documents in braille as they are being typed.  This tool could be a wonderful support for students who rely on braille for their reading and writing.  Teachers could also use the embosser to prepare class work or notes in braille for a child.
    When using technology for students with special needs the possibilities are endless.  These children can benefit tremendously from these items. Students who have speech problems can use a simple board to express how they are feeling and tell others what they want to say, students who have physical problems can do everything that students without these problems do everyday.  As teachers it is our responsibility to reach all of these students and to give them the best education possible. By using these tools we can assure that all students have the materials they need to learn successfully.
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13.3 List/Use media and technology as available to support learning for children whose primary language is not English.

Evidence / Artifact:

Here is a link to a free translator offered on-line click here

Here is a website that offers a variety of software for ESL students.

Here is a website that offers links to many free on-line resources for learning English

Reflection:
    Being in school can be daunting for many students.  However, being in school and not knowing what is going on due to a language barrier is even more difficult.  By using resources that help us extend to these students, we are assuring that they have a good school experience while they are learning their new language.  By using translators we are able to find things in the language they know and we are able to offer them the feeling of acceptance they need so badly.   Even if the students does not speak the same language we still need to meet their learning needs.  To do this we must find ways that we can communicate with them and make them feel comfortable in the new environment.  By learning even a few words from a free on-line translator, you are showing the child that you have a genuine interest in them and that you are excited to help them learn English.  There has recently been a large growth in the number of students entering schools not knowing English.  To prepare for this we must be aware of products that are available to us so that we can help all students become successful learners.  We must also use these products to help the students so that the language barrier does not prevent them from learning new things with the rest of the class.
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13.4 List/Use appropriate local, state, and national services or resources to meet diverse learning needs through technology.

Evidence / Artifact:

Here is The Exceptional Children's page on the Haywood County Schools website that offers links to a large variety of resources nationwide.

Here is link to the Haywood County Schools Instructional Technology Center

Here is a link to the North Carolina Assistive Technologies page.  The closest office is in Sylva, NC.

Reflection:
    By law teachers are required to meet the needs of all learners in their classroom.  It is important to know where you can find resources to help you accomplish this goal.  Being able to do this should not become a burden, but rather should be something that comes automatically.  Knowing where resources are to help you reach this goal is important.  Technology resources are constantly changing and improving, these individuals and centers can help you obtain the materials you need to help all of your students.  These places will also have some of the most up to date information and materials available.  It is important that we utilize these resources and use them in the best way possible for the benefit of our students.  Many of these programs also offer available technology to families outside of school hours.  It is our goal to help every student receive all the necessary help they need to be successful no matter what type of learner they are.  We must know where to locate sources to help us reach this goal and be able to recommend those sources to parents who may benefit from them.
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