The Effects of a Training Session on Teacher Knowledge, Perceptions, and Implementation of Assistive Technology in Secondary Schools.
The Effects of a Training Session on Teacher Knowledge, Perceptions, and Implementation of Assistive Technology in Secondary Schools.
The Effectiveness of Video Tutorials for Teaching Preservice Educators to Use Assistive Technologies
Students with disabilities are guaranteed access to assitive technologies (AT) by provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) (2004) and its predecessor, the Technology Related Assistance Act (Tech Act) (1988). Design and development of AT, including devices and software programs, has burgeoned to a point where availability and affordability are no longer barriers to access in schools. However, research has reported that lack of teacher expertise continues to be a significant barrier to effective access to AT and that models and strategies for improving teacher expertise are desperately needed. This study involved evaluation of preservice teachers' knowledge of, and comfort with, using AT and integrating a prototype computer-based DVD—Encyclopedia of Assisitive Technology (EAT)— into instruction. The EAT includes innovative video based tutorials that guide viewers through the operation of AT devices and software programs. Results of pre- and post-measures indicated significant increases in comfort with AT following use of the EAT, and the results of the study, as well as teacher candidates' satisfaction with the video based tutorials, suggest it is a viable model for enhancing teacher expertise with AT.
Science fairs as learning tool for teaching excellence
Science fairs are usually considered to be a pedagogical and cultural activity that involves the students actively. Gifted students need challenges to further develop their skills while maintaining the motivation level. Science fairs may provide the informal environment that will request and allow these students of excellence to challenge themselves by developing a scientific research project. Despite being well known in different countries, in Portugal first steps are being made on the use and implementation of science fairs as effective pedagogical tool. In this work, we will present a 4 years study that was developed on a Portuguese school with the main goal of evaluating the advantages of this informal way of teaching. The study includes an analysis of the evolution of the students’ knowledge that have participated, or visited, the different science fairs. Some advices for the implementation of these projects will be given. The motivation of the students was monitored as well as the knowledge and skills effectively improved by this activity.