Artifact 11

For the first part of this artifact, the class as a whole, explored the Control Panel on the computers and clicked on Accessibility Options, Display, and then High Contrast. This changed the background to be black with white typing and large icons and font size on the desktop. This would be helpful for students that have visual problems. For the second part, we explored the Control Panel and the options for the Mouse. We added trails to our mouse and could change the size of the "arrow". This would be helpful for students who have fine motor skills and trouble following a small arrow across the screen. The third part of this artifact is a printout of resources for children with learning disabilities. We found this list by going to www.ldonline.org and following the link to "Where to Find Help". Here came up a list of different state agencies within North Carolina. Also, at this site we read "First Person" which was written about learning disabilities from a student with learning disabilities. The last part of this artifact is a printout from the site www.pat.org. I explored this site and looked closely at the "AT Classifieds". Here, I learned that Assistive Technology is a product that helps students with special needs. They can range from wheelchairs (motorized and manual), scooters, and accessories for vehicles, beds and walkers.

Impact:

As a future teacher in the state of North Carolina, I will be able to use this knowledge to enhance my computer lab to be user friendly for all students, including those with special needs. I will be able to modify the computer screen itself, and be able to contact agencies and companies that sell products that could help special needs students.

Alignment:

This artifact aligns with Competency 13.2 because it modifies the classroom instruction and activities to meet those special needs children that exists. It also aligns with INTASC Standard 6 because it facilitates verbal, nonverbal, and media to communicate to the class. Once I become certified, I will be able to use this information in order to allow all students equal access to a computer even if they have special needs.