LEARNING
CHIP's is committed to the computer technology can make a difference for all
learners. The term “learning impairments” is used in a very broad sense to
include learning disabilities, cognitive impairments, mental retardation and
other disabilities that affect learning or re learning.
Computers and software benefit learners in many ways. The computer provides a
multisensory approach, giving visual cues through color graphics and animation,
auditory cues through music, voice and sound prompts and tactile cues through
the keyboard or a touch screen. Software aids the teaching strategies of:
model and demonstrate, drill and practice, problem solve and generalize.
Additionally, a program can detect areas of difficulty for the student and give
additional cues for problem solution. Typing at a computer keyboard, for
individuals having difficulty using pencil and paper, may require less motor
coordination than writing.
The immediate feedback provided by the computer helps the learner measure
progress and encourages a successful learning experience. Some individuals with
learning impairments may benefit by seeing and/or hearing the information
displayed on the computer screen; this may be accomplished by using screen
reading software and speech synthesizer devices. These solutions are described
in the “Audio Output” section of the Center’s Resource Guide for Persons with
Vision Impairments.
HOW COMPUTERS HELP PERSONS WITH LEARNING IMPAIRMENTS
The computer could be characterized as an impartial tutor, providing a
risk-free, learning environment, as well as an active environment for creative
and independent learning. Using a computer, learners adjust and manipulate
their own experiences by controlling the method of input (e.g., touch, voice),
type of output (e.g., graphics, text, audio), and pace instructions. The
different learning styles addressed through computer software can motivate the
individual to participate more in the learning activity. Individuals can use
the computer to maximize their strengths and compensate for areas of weakness.
In education, there is a growing emphasis on integrating students with
disabilities and non-disabled students. A benefit of computer technology is its
ability to help all learners participate equally. Computer materials may be
matched to many learning styles to help a student with a disability participate
in the same environment as a non-disabled student.
IBM has provided funds for the development of programs, which will prove
effective in helping students with learning disabilities. The Michigan Memory
Series of software helps clinicians who require systematic and reliable means
for assessing the progression of a disease process of for evaluating change in
serial recall after medical or behavioral intervention. (For more information,
see the Michigan Memory Series product listing in the Learning Guide.)
Educators and administrators also benefit by using electronic bulletin boards
and databases. Administrative tools help teachers create and audit Individual
Education Plans and track adherence to government guidelines. The computer
frees the teacher to spend more time working with each student.
There are a variety of software programs for reading and language arts, math,
cognitive reading skills and other skills. When choosing a program for a
student, the teacher considers types of instructional methods, presentation
options, and record maintenance and teacher utilities used in the programs. For
example, some programs use a combination of instructional methods, instruction
and drill, drill and practice, tutorial, educational game and strategy
building.
In addition, the use of the presentation options of color graphics, hints,
sound output and content may be significant in enhancing learning. For
professionals in special education ad rehabilitation, administrative and
assessment programs may also be beneficial.
For some individuals with hearing impairments, computer software that enhances
learning and cognitive functions may be only a partial solution. For
individuals with physical or sensory impairments, other adaptive hardware and
software may be needed for computer access.
Return to Software and Hardware for Learning
Impairments