June 8, 2014
Extending UDL into iOS app selection, utilization and implementation….
June 8, 2014
So as we explore the three guiding principles of UDL:
- Provide Mulitple Means of Representation
- Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression
- Provide Multiple Means of Engagement
What are some ways we can use these principles for selecting, using and implementing iOS apps? What are some apps that are good examples of these principles?
Some of my favorite apps that exemplify UDL principles for Mags & Gilly are:
|
Word Wizard |
 |
Word Wizard is a movable phonics alphabet. You can select the type of background you would like to use along with an A to Z or QWERTY style keyboard layout. Build words, phrases and even sentences. |
| Shape Builder |  |
Shape Builder is a visual spatial fine motor app. Mags has always loved this app. It is equally fun on both iPod / iPhone and iPad. Move the shapes and match to outline sample to reveal animals, objects, musical instruments and more. |
| Bitsboard |  |
I have blogged about Bitsboard in the past. With unlimited customization of lesson content for any learner, you can have multiple modes of representation of curriculum or objectives. Flip through vocabulary sets one item at a time, spell items, build sentences and more. |
| See.Touch.Learn Video Demo |
 |
See.Touch.Learn is a great way to make to custom receptive ID lessons for followup on ABA therapy targets. A huge library of photos and images is included along with an online community where vocabulary sets and lessons can be shared. Data tracking allows for monitoring of student progress. |
| SpeechBox |  |
SpeechBox was created by a dad for his son with apraxia. It is so clever and visually appealing. Not only can you work on practicing words, but you can your own ‘boxes’ of content to use as writing prompts or conversation starters. |
| Abilipad |  |
Abilipad is a writing support app. You can create your own custom keyboards with letters, words, even photos to support beginning or more advanced writers who can benefit from visual and text supports. Notebooks and keyboards can be shared in an online community. |
| Clicker Apps |  |
Clicker from Crick has been known as an outstanding reading and writing support software for Mac and Windows. Features from Clicker can now be accessed on iOS with their apps: Clicker Sentences, Clicker Books, Clicker Docs and Clicker Connect. App comparison chart can be found here. |
| Co:Writer |  |
Co:Writer software by Don Johnston has been available for Mac and Windows as a writing support for students for years. Co:Writer app for iOS incorporates many of the same features as the software for use on iPad. Users can benefit from audio and visual cues. Text predication and text to speech help to support writing and communication. |
| DropBox |  |
Use DropBox to access photos, files, and reference documents on any almost any computer, tablet or device. More and more apps are starting to feature DropBox integration for easy sharing and archival of customized content. See previous post on DropBox here. |
| Google Drive |  |
Google Drive aka Google Docs is an online cloud-based software suite with both file storage and apps for producing spreadsheets, word processing documents and presentations. |
~KVS
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~Jeremiah 29:11.
Permalink Comments off
June 6, 2014
Extending UDL into Assistive Technology….
June 6, 2014
Three guiding principles are the foundation of UDL or Universal Design for Learning:
- Provide Mulitple Means of Representation
- Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression
- Provide Multiple Means of Engagement
http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/udlguidelines:
This means that thinking about UDL principles within the context of teaching should drive us to continually address and consider the What, How and Why of learning in our efforts to reach and enrich all learners. When I think of how this can help learners with diverse abilities, things like the importance of multi-sensory approaches, using a variety of learning materials and harnessing the power of instructional and assistive technologies comes to mind.
Assistive Technology is not automatically UDL. Assistive Technology can help create opportunities for students to perform at their best while it implements principles of UDL to improve the overall learning process. “The use of technology provides clear advantages to those who wish to provide flexible, supportive, and adjustable learning and productivity experiences to all learners” (Hitchcock & Stahl, 2003).
“In short, technology is not synonymous with UDL, but it does play a valuable role in its implementation and conceptualization.”
http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/udltechnology
~KVS
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~Jeremiah 29:11.
Permalink Comments off
June 5, 2014
Let’s dive back back into AT and UDL….
June 5, 2014
This past year has been a busy one! We moved. The girls started school in a new district. I started graduate work to pursue a master’s degree in special education with emphasis in assistive technology. I also gave notice at my part-time job to pursue contract work, blogging, grad school, and ASD mama-ness to the fullest.
For some of my first posts back, I plan to share some of the projects I’ve completed so far for my graduate work.
Here is a presentation I put together and uploaded to slideshare entitled “Principles of Universal Design and Universal Design for Learning: An Informational Guide:”
It highlights some of the key concepts in UDL as they related to assistive technology for those who may have disabilities:
We’ll dive deeper into these principles in my next post.
~KVS
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~Jeremiah 29:11.
Permalink Comments off
Mags & Gilly 