7B-Abigail Cook—Response to Megan Giesen

With technology ever-changing, this paper was very informative and useful for helping to learn current uses for assistive technology.  The most common technology that comes to mind is the computer.  The computer is so complex that it is hard to know all of the different uses it has, especially for students with exceptional learning needs.  Personally, I am more familiar with Microsoft products, so I appreciate all of the helpful information about Apple products in this paper.  It is nice to know that many forms of assistive technology come with Mac products.  This paper did a great job in outlining step-by-step instructions for different Mac applications.

Another thing I really enjoyed about this paper is the real life examples that are included.  Megan did a wonderful job in giving great examples as to how different types of technology can help users in various situations. 

Since there are so many forms of assistive technology available, I learned about a few products that I have never heard of before.  I liked reading about the NavBelt, and the other technologies useful for people with visual impairments.  I also learned about the program, Dragon, and how that converts text to speech.  I also learned for the first time about the Inspiration Maps App. This graphic organizer app seems like a great tool for students that have trouble organizing.

                After reading this paper, I have realized how many forms of assistive technology that I use on a daily basis.  Megan pointed out that assistive technology is not only for students with learning disabilities, and that most people will use some form of assistive technology in their lifetime. 

                Students with disabilities not only need assistive technology in the classroom, but they also need it in their everyday environments.  Megan pointed out that users use technology to control the climate in their homes.  Technology can also be used as remotes, alarms, and light switches.  Technology can even be used to control water valves, and toilets.

                I have learned from this paper, that technology is so useful for people with disabilities.  It makes everyday tasks easier, and it makes learning more manageable.  There are so many forms of assistive technology that the possibilities are endless, and I believe that technology will keep evolving and get better and better.