Artifact 6

Context
In class, I designed a computer lab that is accessible to all types of students. I tried to consider as many different types of student disabilities as I could imagine. The items on this list are necessary for an accessible computer lab because every student deserves a fair opportunity to gain an education. For visually impaired students, I recommended screen adaptations, dictation software, and Braille keyboards. For hearing impaired students, I recommended audio hook-ups and visual presenters. For wheelchair-bound students, I recommended wide aisles and wheelchair accessible desks.

Impact
This activity was important for me to complete because it gave me a chance to really think about the abilities and disabilities that students in my classroom will have. Although the funds for all of the items on the accessible computer lab list will not necessarily be available at the school where I teach, I can still recommend some changes that can be made over time. I printed a copy of the list to keep in my technology portfolio so that I can refer back to it in the future.

Alignment
The accessible computer lab activity aligns with competency 12.4. This activity includes a detailed list of items that will complete an accessible computer lab. When I am teaching at a school someday, I can make suggestions to the administrators and school board about an accessible computer lab by referring back to this activity.

Alignment with INTASC Standards
The following artifact also meets INTASC Standard 5. Children usually find technology to be extremely fascinating. Oftentimes, when children visit the computer lab, it can be a time of great fun and learning. So, an accessible computer lab helps to provide positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self motivation to all learners. Students with physical or learning disabilities may struggle in a improperly prepared computer lab, therefore an accessible computer lab should be prepared for these students.