Tuesday, April 19, 2011

How to teach students with dyslexia

Offering alternate ways to show mastery of material other than written form can be helpful for dyslexic students. Alternatives could include oral or video presentations, dioramas, collages, or debates. Dyslexic students learn better visually so including tools such as podcasts, websites, presentations, and online learning games can be extremely effective. Teachers need to figure out the best way for each student to learn in order to help them learn effectively.

http://www.dys-add.com/teach.html

Technology Tools for Dyslexia

There are many technology tools out there to help assist students with dyslexia. Online resources like having assignments and instructions posted on a website or blog can help a dyslexic student with organization. Audio tools like talk to type programs that can read books aloud or podcasts can help dyslexic students who have problems with reading and spelling. Even online games to help with reading comprehension can be helpful as well as spell check functions in word processing programs.

http://www.arp.sprnet.org/curric/atrisk/dyslexia_tech.htm#Tech_Tools

How technology can help dyslexic students

Students with dyslexia often have problems with spelling, keeping appointments and managing their time which can be very stressful particularly around exam times. PDAs can help students keep up with assignments and schedules. They can help with organization as dyslexic students usually have problems remembering things. They are also constantly being updated as technology progresses so they are always adapting.

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Educational_Technology_Innovation_and_Impact/Assistive_Technology/PDAs_to_support_Dyslexic_Students

What I've learned

I have learned just how behind schools in America are compared to other countries around the world when it comes to incorporating technology in the classroom. It was surprising to hear that America ranked way down on the list. After watching the independent film, "Waiting for Superman", I really realized just how behind school systems are in this country. I've learned so much in this course about how to incorporate technology to enhance students learning in ways that I never knew existed. I really hope schools can take a step forward and incorporate these things to help students get the education they need to enter the workforce that exists today.