I am a special education, public school teacher, in Chesapeake, VA. I teach 1st and 2nd grade students who are autistic. My students' special needs run the gamete from very high to very low! At any given moment I can have a smooth flowing atmosphere in my classroom to complete organized chaos! My students are caring, brilliant, unique and intelligent individuals, and they are 21st century learners!
Given the technology era we are living in, it is a challenge every day to teach my students on computers that are dated.
My students' "down" time or sensory break on the computer has become a frustrating activity lately due to dated technology. I wish I had tablets or iPads to give them. Most of my students need to self-regulate and this includes being able to do activities independently for at least 15 minutes.
This activity can also generate conversations between students and teachers, (another area of challenge for the autism population). iPod or tablet activities can spark discussions about common interests.
My Project
The tablets will be used for 10 to 15 minute sensory breaks. The tablets will also help generate conversations during group time when students can share common interests and exchange a back and forth, turn-taking activity. Oftentimes, this is especially helpful for students who can be shy and or have speech and language challenges.
The tablets will be used for students to instill self-regulation, use updated technology, and become 21st century learners.
Timed activities help autistic students understand how to be respectful of each other's time and interests.
More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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