Final post....

It is hard to believe we have had our last class, and this will be my final post for EDUC5173. When I look back at the first day and think about how overwhelmed I was to where I am today it is such a great feeling....

Take Away #1:
When I enrolled in this course I thought I had a fairly good understanding of technology, and the tools available for a person with disabilities. Was I wrong! The first hour of class, I knew I was going to be doing a lot of "homework" just to keep up with all of the new terminology and technology I was learning. Terms such as AAC, EyeGaze, SETT, Power Links, Chomp, Book Creator, and Proloquo2Go, etc. I enjoyed learning all of these new apps and their uses. I am excited for September so I can have the students use Book Creator and iMovie in my courses....

Take Away #2:
Assistive Technology doesn't always have to mean "high-end gadgetry." While we were learning all of the new apps and using iPads not all assistive technology has to be high-tech. Our venture to the Dollar Store produced many applications of low-end, low-cost assistive technology tools to assist students in their learning and engagement in the classroom.

Take Away #3:
When I heard our written assignments were to be reflective and "BLOGGED" I clinched as I had not blogged nor did I care to put my thoughts “out there.” However, after a couple of days I could see the relevance in being able to share our learning with each other through the blog. It is a great way to share what you have learned and also to read what others are thinking….

A final thought, from start to finish the course was designed and delivered to expose learners to the assistive technology currently available to enhance students’ with disabilities learning. The delivery of the course truly modelled the principles of adult learning such as: relevancy, goal-oriented, and utilizing the knowledge and life experiences of the students in the class. I think this is one of the most practical and relevant courses I have taken at Acadia.

All in all, I made it to the finish line ....