discover

           The BENEFIT OF TECHNOLOGY

 

Touch Screen
Makes A Difference

Five-year-old Timmy Sucha from Verdigre sits transfixed in front of the computer. One of his favorite things to do is listen to books and music on the computer. He reaches out and places his hand on his mother’s hand to guide the mouse. “Is this the one you want?” Timmy’s mom asked. Timmy shakes his head “No!” He points to the story he wants on the computer screen and his mother manipulates the mouse to click on his choice.
Timmy experiences autism, and “many times I don’t know what Timmy wants,” his mother shares with me. Leah Merkwan, ATP Education Technology Specialist, was able to tell her about the assistive technology devices available for short-term loans made possible by AT4ALL.
A “Touch Screen” was loaned to Timmy’s family for a 30-day trial. Using the touch screen Timmy was able to reach out and select the program or activate choices without asking for help.
“The Touch Screen opened a lot of doors for Timmy,” his mom said. “Timmy is making more sounds and saying more words as well as choosing the items in a program he likes the best.” his mother shared. “When it is time for us to return the Touch Screen, we plan to purchase one for him to use at home.” Hearing of Timmy’s success with the Touch Screen at home the school agreed to purchase one for him to use in kindergarten.

Timmy utilizes his touch screen.

AT In Education
Dakotah Craig, a smart, inquisitive and very personable sixth-grade student at Mead, was struggling with written work in school because of a medical condition.
The resource teacher at the school contacted Ann Rodhouse, ATP Education Technology Specialist, with questions about available technology, equipment for loan, and funding.
A number of mid- to high-tech options were demonstrated at a meeting with Dakotah, his family and teachers.
After a trial period with several devices borrowed from AT4ALL, the team decided that the Dana, a portable word processor by AlphaSmart, would be a good technology match for Dakotah. The family particularly liked the operating system of the Dana (Palm OS) that would allow for the greatest flexibility of software options.
Louise Dannehl another ATP Education Technology Specialist

Dakotah uses his dana in the classroom.

coordinated funding for the device and was able to put the family into contact with United Cerebral Palsy. As a result, Dakotah received his own Dana.
“I am using the Dana (upgrade of an Alpha-Smart) in school to take notes in my different classes, complete homework assignments, and do reports. My teacher is able to download worksheets for me to complete on the Dana. It has been very helpful for me. The hardest part is remembering to get all my information printed out so I can hand it in and get a grade,” Dakotah said.

Today’s Answers for Children and Young Adults with Disabilities

Nebraska ChildFind provides information to parents, school personnel, and service providers on child development and special education for children from birth (or date of diagnosis) to age 21.
ChildFind also helps parents access information on rights and resources to help them advocate for an appropriate education for their child.
For more information call toll free 1.888.806.6287 or visit the ChildFind web site.
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