Kathy McWhorter is wrapping up the afternoon with a discussion about assistive technologies.
Students with disabilities in the K-12 setting have a legal right to have their curriculum delivered in an accessible format. This presentation will serve to inform educators of student rights as well as the process for obtaining Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM).
Understanding Barriers to Accessible Materials
Kathy pointed out that materials we believe to be accessible may not be accessible to everyone. Kids have a right to accessible materials. Kathy coordinates the Clearinghouse for Accessible Instructional Materials. In primary school, the school takes care of the children. In higher education, the student is responsible for themselves. Students must understand their rights. Instructors may not know if students have a disability.
Kathy McWhorter presenting on presenting
If a student asks for support, we must by law support them. If possible, find an alternative format for the course material. Publishers are now accommodating different formats. Instructors may modify content to address learning issues, such as simplifying reading to a lower grade level. There are many methods for formatting a book from braille to a larger format.
If students need special services, the student needs documentation. The law also provides alternative formats of copyright material. What is our mission? Are we focusing on the classroom? Are focusing on the gavel? Or are we focusing on the student?
Exploring Accessibility in Practice
How do we define access? Kathy discusses the costs of providing access to materials. There are challenges in providing materials and using accessible technologies. Are smartphones or iPhones accessible? Kathy showed a video on iPhone accessibility.
Kathy told a great story about a blind farmer who needed a GPS so he could walk down the road to get his mail. To get from building to building on his farm, he has a radio playing on a different station in each building. Here is a person who is making it work, and not feeling entitled.
Kathy showed a great example of disabilities in an education setting. She showed examples of how students interpret what is being said. They try to capture what they hear, but it may not be accurate.
Finding Books in Alternative Formats
There are four places to find books in alternative formats:
- Learning Ally
- Access Text Network
- APH – American Printing House for the Blind.
- Bookshare
WIND will help get a book in the format you need.
Kathy put out several devices for review. She also demonstrated iPad applications that help with accessibility.
Great points! It is about focusing on the learner and choosing the right tools to get the message across.
Additional Reading
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