Journal #8

"Disabled Bodies, Able Minds: Giving Voice, Movement, and Independence to the Physically Challenged" by Diane Curtis

This article discussed many case studies regarding the use of assistive technologies for students in schools. One case study was a student named Ardian is without the use of his limbs and is a participant of the program called TACLE (Technology and Augmentative Communication for Learning Enhancement) which is a districtwide program that Adrian is a part of where his teacher of three years finally discovered that Adrian had control over his eyebrows thus he is now able to communicate through a computer his needs and wants. Another student named Niara with cerebral palsy uses a speech-generated technology that recognizes cheek movements to express herself. The goal of the teachers at Redwood Heights Elementary in Oakland, CA is "allow their students to achieve their potential". TACLE and other programs are advocating along with students and parents to ensure that disabled people are included in all activities at school. Allowing disabled students to participate gives them a chance to stretch themselves and see what they are "cable of accomplishing". DO-IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology) are not tolerate school administration who feel that they don't "have a responsibility to include those with disabilities in every school activity possible" or think that aides can substitute technology that gives students with disabilities more independence.

The case studies in this article really taught me a lot about what assistive technologies potential for students with disabilities. I was really amazed the patience that the teachers of these students who worked three years and finally found a way that their student could communicate...with his eyebrows. Such dedication is nothing short of inspiring and I couldn't imagine how much frustration the students who are unable to verbalize what they need/want feel when they are finally given a method to do just that. The technologies that are available to disabled students are definitely something that schools should be investing. I also believe that creating a more inclusive environment for disabled students in school activities is a goal that all schools should be working towards. Not only does including disabled students in activities benefit them but it also benefits the rest of the students in the school by learning that disabled students are a part of our world and are a part of our lives.

1. The assistive technologies mentioned in this article such as communication computers will definitely benefit disabled students but I was concerned how schools here in California will be able to afford these devices now that the state's educational budget has been cut so severely?

2. Are students eligible to receive these communication devices to use at school through the programs mentioned in the article or through the federal government? Would they be covered under health insurance?