Psychology 476

About Psychology 476

Introduction

Welcome to Psychology 476: Assistive Technology for Students with Special Needs. This three-credit, senior-level course introduces teachers and other educational professionals to assistive technology tools, strategies, and support services. Assistive technology (AT) refers to equipment that improves the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. It includes hardware such as augmentative communication devices, adaptive tools, and software designed to support the participation of individuals with disabilities in the school or larger community setting. With the support of assistive technology, individuals with disabilities discover they can have control over their environment, allowing them to develop a sense of competence and independence. In this course, you will learn about assistive technology, develop the necessary skills and knowledge to implement assistive technology, and gain an understanding of how the appropriate use of assistive technologies can act as a potential equalizer for all participants in a learning environment.

Course Structure

Psychology 476: Assistive Technology for Students with Special Needs is divided into four parts, with each part covering a different set of topics relating to assistive technology. Each part is further divided into units, with each unit focusing on a specific aspect of the topic being studied. The parts and units are as follows:

Part 1: The Fundamentals of Assistive Technology

Unit 1: Introduction to Assistive Technology

Unit 2: Issues in Assistive Technology

Unit 3: Assessment Strategies for Assistive Technology

Unit 4: Building a Team and Working with Families

Unit 5: Developing a Technology Plan

Part 2: Assistive Technology Tools in the Curriculum

Unit 6: Assistive Technology for Reading

Unit 7: Assistive Technology for Writing

Unit 8: Assistive Technology for Manipulation and Mathematics

Part 3: Assistive Technology for Students with Special Needs

Unit 9: Assistive Technology for Students with Learning Disabilities

Unit 10: Assistive Technology for Students with Communication Needs

Unit 11: Assistive Technology for Students with Severe Physical Disabilities

Unit 12: Assistive Technology for Students with Sensory Disabilities

Part 4: Special Topics

Unit 13: Computer Access

Unit 14: Internet Access and Online Learning

Unit 15: Assistive Technology for Early Childhood and Post-Secondary Students