Module 1 Assignment

[Marie Dunne]

 

This module highlighted to me how assistive technology can make learning more accessible for the pupils I support. As a literacy and numeracy support teacher working with 5th and 6th class pupils, I work with children who all learn in different ways and often need different supports to help them reach their potential. One of the biggest learnings I took from this module is that assistive technology is about choosing the right technology support that helps all pupils engage more fully in their learning.

Learning about the SETT Framework was probably my biggest takeaway from the module. It made me realise the importance of looking at the pupil, the learning environment and the task before deciding on the technology. I can see how this approach will help me make more informed decisions when planning literacy and numeracy support. Whether it’s using text-to-speech to support reading, speech-to-text for writing or other digital tools, the focus should always be on helping the pupil achieve the learning goal.

This module also made me think about our School Self-Evaluation process and how assistive technology could play a bigger role in improving outcomes for pupils. The focus of our DEIS plan is to improve outcomes in problem solving in Maths. This is an area that can be greatly supported through the use of the many suitable Maths apps and websites that are available .
The Digital Learning Framework standard that appealed to me was Standard 1.1: “Pupils use appropriate digital technologies to foster active engagement in attaining appropriate learning outcomes.” I can see this linking directly to my own role as SET teacher. The pupils I support often need different ways to access learning, and the right digital tools can help them participate more actively and demonstrate what they know. Rather than completing tasks for them, assistive technology gives them the confidence and capability to become independent and engaged learners.

 

 

[Frances Campbell]

I agree Marie, the biggest take away for me also was the SETT Framework. Following the 4 steps will really help to focus the data gathering and choose the correct support for individual children on my caseload next year. It also opened my eyes to the range of tools in the three categories. I have probably underestimated some of the no/low tech tools as a meaningful tool.

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