I teach in a self-contained Intellectually Disabled - Moderate classroom. My students have many learning needs such as communication, behavioral, academic and daily living skills mastery.
My largest daily challenge is not having devices that allow my students to communicate with their limited verbal and fine motor delays.
The curriculum that the school system provides us with is online based and since my students are functioning at various levels, it is difficult to access and teach in a group setting. Enabling our students to access the curriculum on individual devices to work on activities at their learning levels will greatly enhance their educational achievement.
Students from all over the county are placed into my class based on their need for specially designed instruction in a small group setting. With access to individualized tools, I know that all of my students can continue to learn to the best of their ability.
My Project
My students are prone to distraction and frustration because they have difficulties learning the way that their typical peers learn. Spoken or written language can be very difficult for my students, although they are able to learn. I am requesting iPads for my students in order for them to have individualized technology available to help them learn in ways that are fun, interactive, engaging all the while, meeting their individual needs. My students will also be able to access the Unique Learning program which is the named curriculum that the school system has provided for the Special Education classrooms. Apple iPads will also allow many of my nonverbal students tools to communicate through apps such as Proloquo2Go, which is a voice for them in which to communicate. For students with visual or fine motor difficulties, having iPads can help them dictate their thoughts and have those thoughts scribed for them. This will give them the opportunity to participate in writing activities and eliminate pencil/paper which can pose great difficulties and anxiety.
These tablets will allow my students to work in both small groups and individually to meet their IEP goals and objectives.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Snyder and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
