Weekly reflection-Technology and Inclusion

Accessing support:

• Designations
• pyschoeducational and other assessments- waitlists & delays
• personal story

Common challenges

• Lack of Access: Families may not have devices or reliable internet; schools may lack funding.
• Lack of Support: Families or teachers may feel unprepared or overwhelmed.
• Resistance to Change: Hesitation from stakeholders due to unfamiliarity or skepticism.
• Privacy Concerns: Worries about data security.
• Technology as a Distraction: Perceptions of misuse, including cell phone debates.

Some solutions

• Advocate for funding, loaner programs, and grants.
• Include assistive technlogy in IEPs.
• Provide training for families and teachers, and ongoing support.
• Use tools that promote independence and fit IEP goals.
• Ensure compliance with privacy laws.
• Write assistive cell phone use into IEPs for clarity.
• Normalize assistive tech and make accessible to all.

1.Opportunities:
 Bridges gaps in learning, communication, and independence. Tools like AI, gamified apps, and assistive tech offer exciting possibilities.
 2.Concerns:
 Privacy, data safety, and bias in technology design. Balancing reliance on tech with meaningful interaction.
Digital divide and capacity at home.
 
3.Parent-Teacher Collaboration:
 Build confidence through clear communication and guidance.
Share tools, explain their purpose, and address questions.
Advocate for equitable access.
 Key Question:
 How can we ensure technology becomes a bridge to equity and opportunity?

Ableism

Ableism: Ableism is the discrimination of and social prejudice against people with disabilities based on the belief that typical abilities are superior. It essentially they need to be “fixed”. Often assumed as less worthy of respect consideration

Some examples

• Is the student “disabled enough”?
• Assuming the goal is to be independent of the use of technology
• Negative perceptions from other students and adults. “Its not fair”

exclusion tracker- Students with designations are being excluded from school and therefore do not have equitable access to an education.

IEP

IEPs- A written educational plan for special education students designed to describe programming modifications and/or adaptations and to indicate specific services provided.created through a collaborative process involving school staff, parents, and the student (when appropriate).

Other tools in your toolbox