ReturnElementary Classrooms - The Sequel: Tech Tools Reinventing Accessibility for All
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Colorado Convention Center, 205
Listen and learn: Snapshot 
Trips and Tours
Recorded SessionSnapshots are a pairing of two 20 minute presentations followed by a 5 minute Q & A.
This is presentation 2 of 2, scroll down to see more details.
Other presentations in this group:
- Presentation 1: Active & Passive Tech Coaching: Meeting Educators Where They Are
Presenters
Session description
Purpose & objective
Our session would highlight and model the use of accessibility tools in Microsoft 365, Minecraft Education, and other apps like Canva for educators in attendance. We will promote the idea that accessibility tools can transform teaching and learning for the better and to improve the educational opportunities for all students regardless of their diverse abilities. One of the biggest challenges that teachers often say they face is providing effective support for a growing number of students who don't fit a traditional student mold. Teachers unaware of tools and strategies that can positively impact diverse learners can leave teachers frustrated and students not reaching their potential. After this session, it is our objective that educators have an expanded toolkit to create the next generation of inclusive and equitable elementary classrooms - the sequel.
Outline
Attendees will receive a set of cards at the beginning of the session that describes many diverse learners - with and without disabilities. As presenters begin each new tool/app, attendees will hold up one card of a student description who they think benefits to spark discussion on the variety of students who can benefit from each tool. The U.L.T.R.A. team will then demonstrate/model each tool through all our learners’ eyes and answer questions. The session will focus on when and how to utilize tools including Immersive Reader, translate, dictate, live captions, math tools, Minecraft Education and learning accelerators that help create accessible and personalized classrooms. Each component will last between 5-10 minutes, and will have an interactive feel with audience members. We hope to have attendees share more innovative ways they have used these tools as well.
Supporting research
Crossland, A. & Gray, T., & Reynolds, J. (2018) ESSA and Digital Learning. Closing the Digital Accessibility Gap. American Institutes for Research, The 10 Series.
https://www.air.org/sites/default/files/downloads/report/ESSA-Digital-Lrng-508.pdf
Boutelier, S. & Ludwig, N. (2021) Leveraging Technology to Support Students’ Needs. Edutopia. https://www.edutopia.org/article/leveraging-technology-support-students-needs/
Hicks-Monroe, S. L. (2011). A Review of Research on the Educational Benefits of the Inclusive Model of Education for Special Education Students. Journal of the American Academy of Special Education Professionals, 61, 69.
Session specifications
Laptop: Mac, PC
Leader
- Advocate for equitable access to educational technology, digital content and learning opportunities to meet the diverse needs of all students.
- Use technology to create, adapt and personalize learning experiences that foster independent learning and accommodate learner differences and needs.
Empowered Learner
- Students build networks and customize their learning environments in ways that support the learning process.