Chromebook Technology for Students With Special Needs
Help me give my students Chromebooks so that they can develop their reading, math, typing, and organizational skills, essentials for 21st-century jobs and independence.
My students are 2nd and 3rd graders who have disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder and specific learning disabilities. They also come from very diverse cultural backgrounds. While they may not always learn like the general population, I always marvel at their unique perspectives and strengths. It is truly inspiring when they are able to overcome a challenge or find a new strength in themselves.
At this age, they are filled with curiosity and creativity.
I want to help them access the general education curriculum by giving them adequate technology resources, the best-leveled texts, multi-sensory instruction, and connecting learning to their daily lives. By having the right tools I can effectively differentiate for their diverse learning needs.
My Project
Computers are a vital part of everyone's life. With Chromebooks, my students will be able to keep up with their typically developing peers. Chromebooks have assistive features such as text to speech that help students process information at a quicker pace. Most of my students do not know how to type, an important skill in everyday life. I want my students to start practicing writing emails and reading articles on the computer right now so that they won't feel behind when they are older.
With access to Chromebooks, my students will be able to use literacy apps such as Freckle and Reading A to Z, typing games, and math programs like Dreambox and Zearn.
Not only will they be learning 21st century computer skills, but they will be able to understand and analyze the world around them better. Many students with disabilities struggle with executive functioning skills such as self-regulation and organization. Chromebooks offer a wide variety of applications and resources that will help my students develop better organization skills.
In conclusion, having easy access to Chromebooks will help my students stay motivated to stay involved in their education by giving them more independence in reading, math, typing, and executive function organization skills.
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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 Ms. Wichelman and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.