Many of us as parents understand the desire for a miraculous fix to the challenges we face regarding our children’s education. We also understand there is no one miracle cure to what ails our educational system. The hope is that AI will revolutionize learning for our kids and create new ways of accessing learning that support and represent all learners. But is it merely another item of concern on our checklist?
However you feel about it, AI — and many other forms of technology — are here and making their way into our kids’ schools, sparking both excitement and concern. This week, we’re taking a journey into tech and AI in special education and all the areas parents and caregivers need to be familiar with to advocate for, and make informed decisions about, the role technology plays in our children’s education now. Welcome to the Tech Issue!
When you imagine artificial intelligence, what comes to mind? Talking robots, virtual reality, chatbots, facial recognition, gamified learning…maybe the Terminator? AI encompasses many forms of technology, including ones that can help our kiddos in real world ways, such as with reading and writing, math, socialization, executive functions, behavior, and more. Journey with us into the world of AI in our article AI in Special Education!
With anything as revolutionary as AI in education, concerns about ethics, privacy, security, and safety, are very much on our minds. It’s natural for parents to feel a sense of anxiety around AI in the classroom. Read more about these topics in our article AI in Education: Ethics, Safety Considerations, and Questions Parents Should Ask. (Psst…stay tuned for our upcoming article on how game-based learning, VR/AR, and social robots can help kids with disabilities!)
Assistive technology can play a big role in reducing barriers to learning. Whether in the classroom or at home, AT can level the playing field, foster independent learning, and help ensure that our kiddos have the same opportunities as their peers without disabilities. Check out our article Assistive Technology (AT) 101 to learn more about available tools, how to get an AT assessment, and more!
There are assistive technology tools for nearly every kiddo’s needs — vision, hearing, mobility, sensory, learning, communication, mental health, you name it. But with hundreds of assistive technology tools out there, where do we even begin to identify which ones are right for our child’s needs? For an in-depth list of AT tools — from audiobooks to browser extensions to iPad apps, and more — dive into our article IEP Assistive Technology Tools to Empower Students with Disabilities.
Is AAC a form of AT? you might be wondering. “AAC looks like so many things,” says Speech-Language Pathologist Ali Steers says, “so it can be really hard for someone to wrap their brain around what exactly AAC is.” Functionally speaking, AAC can be anything from an iPad app to a computer with text-to-speech software to a dedicated, portable device or low-tech systems like communication boards, a picture exchange communication system (PECS), and signing. Learrn more about AAC in our article Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) 101.
Don’t miss our list of the top Google Chrome extensions for accessibility. We cover everything browser extensions that support children who need help with reading comprehension, sustaining focus/attention, navigation, and more!
One Undivided parent shared with us, “Because of Undivided, I have created these super awesome parent connections with three of the members, and we text all the time and support one another. This is literally so fantastic, and I feel like I finally have people that I can just be so real with. Thank you for bringing together a space where we can create deep, meaningful, totally real/authentic relationships with others who ‘get it.'”
Undivided Conversations: AI in Special Education
Join Undivided Friday, May 17 at 12:00 p.m. PDT for an exciting virtual conversation exploring AI in education! Discover how cutting-edge technology is transforming the landscape for parents and caregivers. From revolutionizing IEPs to fostering inclusion and socialization, our special education educators and advocates delve into the thrilling possibilities. Don’t miss out on this dynamic discussion about the future of technology education! Tune in at noon on Friday for the stream on our Facebook page!
*Plus: Undivided will be at the Special Olympics LA County Spring Games this weekend! Stop by on Saturday, May 18, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. We’d love to say hi!
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) for Ages 0–5: Live Virtual Event
Have you been told that your child doesn’t qualify for IHSS because they’re too young? Maybe you’ve hit other snags trying to apply for IHSS and make the most of these services. Join us Thursday, June 6, 1:00–2:00 p.m. PDT for a live event with Public Benefits Specialist Lisa Concoff Kronbeck. She’ll cover the basics, the recent rule change for parent providers, plus other tips specifically for babies and young kids. Register for this free event here on our RSVP page!
- How do you request an assistive technology assessment? Hear from Dr. Pauly and her tips on YouTube→
- Does your child have autism? Review these tips on Instagram for including AAC and AT in the IEP→
- If you’re looking for providers or other services in your area, other parents in our community may have recommendations! Join our private Facebook group if you haven’t already→
- If you know about a cool development in tech for kids with disabilities, definitely let us know! Connect with Undivided on LinkedIn→
- What help do you need with your child’s school supports? An Undivided Navigator can talk with you about the best next steps. Get started →
