OVERVIEW

Twenty-first century teachers and students are under increasing pressure to perform. High-stakes testing at all levels seems to be on the rise. Student populations are becoming more and more diverse. In addition to serving students with varying linguistic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds, teachers are expected to differentiate instruction based on differences in student learning styles and multiple intelligences. Schools are not only encouraged, but required by law, to provide equal access to curriculum and resources to all their students, including those with disabilities.

Technology is touted as a means to help alleviate these pressures, but many teachers feel that the technology itself is an added pressure; something else required of them to incorporate in their already hectic day. While it's true that completing this Webquest will take time and effort, we look at it more as an investment in learning that will pay dividends to busy teachers, and, more importantly, to their students, especially those most often left behind.

TARGET PARTICIPANTS

This WebQuest is designed to be used by K-12 teachers and administrators.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• To define the term "Assistive Technology"
• To explore currently available AT
• To recommend appropriate AT for specific disabilities
• To understand schools' legal obligation to provide AT
• To participate in a group whose goal is to recommend appropriate AT for a student with a specific disability.
  

On to The Assistive Technology WebQuest