Removing the Barriers...brick by brick

Throughout my time in a classroom, and now in my current setting as the library/media specialist, one idea seems to prevail.  Not all students learn in the same way and nearly all students require an individualized approach.  I see many great benefits of implementing technology as a way to remove traditional barriers to student learning and success in a classroom and beyond.

Technical skills are something that students are going to need to possess as they move forward in like.  These students are digital natives.  They require technology, and as an educator, it is my responsibility to help them learn and use the proper "netiquette" skills.  Once students know how to effectively and appropriately use the technology that they are given, real learning barriers can be broken down.

We had a guest speaker this week at our school (enduringregret.org) who had debilitating injuries in a car wreck.  He had lost his ability to speak, so he was using a speech app on his iPad.  I think the presenter said it cost $1.99.  Anyways, it was so amazing to me that he was able to communicate in that way.  When I started thinking about potential students that would benefit from this type of app, I was reminded of the vast possibilities of technology.

I also see the benefit that technology can bring it terms of the information that is available to students and teachers.  Teachers can add assessments, accommodations  additional content on an as needed basis.  Our school uses My Big Campus, which allows this very easily.  There is a limitless about of differentiation that can occur.

The final thought that I have in regards to technology as a way to reach all students is the "wow" factor.  Student engagement is a key part of any lesson, regardless of the grade level or the class subject.  If students enjoy using technology, why not include it in the classroom?  Sure, there will still be students that are at different levels in regards to their technical abilities.  Kids are fast learners, though.  Give them a couple of weeks or months and they will be coming up with all kinds of new ways to implement and use the technology.

Using the terms you reviewed in the Exploration, evaluate ways that blended/online learning can remove barriers that prevent some students from learning in a traditional "brick and mortar" classroom.