There are many uses and goals of using different forms of Technology with students. Technology is a tool used to help better our instruction. Children with autism process visual information easier than auditory information. The use of technology as a visual tool can help students to regulate emotions, organize their day and socialize. Various types of technology from “low” tech to “high” tech, should be incorporated into every aspect of daily living in order to improve the functional capabilities of children with autism.
Types of Technology
Vicki Clark is a speech and language pathologist who specializes in the use of technology. In an interview she is able to answer and explain the uses of technology with students with autism.
Technology for students with Autism
We have a variety of technology in our classroom that assists students in achieving a variety of goals.
Timers
We use visual timers to help students transition between subject. Visual timers in addition to visual schedules, help students to understand the meaning of “five minutes until clean-up.” They are reminded through a visual cue how much time they have and what they need to do with that time.
iPods
Many of our students have a difficult time with ambient noise in the classroom. White noise or a desired music can help a student regulate their auditory input in the classroom. Applications for the iPod touch through iTunes is an option in addition to a white noise machine, or MP3 player.
iPads
Students in our classroom use iPods and iPads and a variety of applications to meet communication, sensory and regulation needs. There are many applications that can be used on both the iPod and iPad. One of the biggest applications that we use is a communication application called Proloquo2go. This is a symbol communication application with voice over. You can customize the application to meet the abilities of the individual student so they are able to communicate.
Other applications that are available are summarized in a piece done by 60 minutes