Does your student have a digital folder with information about the tech he/she uses? Have you encouraged your student to create and maintain a tech folder for future reference – it is never too early to develop a tech folder that contains important tech-related information! The student’s tech file might include these things for each device/software:
* If the purchase was made by the student/student’s family, the tech file should include a digital copy of the receipt.
Developing and maintaining a student tech file is a critical piece of self-advocacy and should be included in your student’s IEP goals. While some might consider this a “transition” goal, since the student will be fully responsible for his/her personal tech after high school graduation, creating a tech file should be started much earlier!
Just like the student’s tech file, the student should also learn how to install software, update software, delete software, etc. While this can be tricky in some districts due to IT rules, put this goal in the IEP and work with your IT department. Can you request the IT person be observe as your student goes thru the steps of installing licensed software like JAWS or Fusion?
If the student has a personal smart phone, tablet and/or computer, the student should be installing, updating and deleting apps on his/her personal device. If not, talk to the family about allowing this – if desired, the family can control and observe while the student installs, updates or deletes applications.
Involve the student! Have the student research online the various devices/software and make a list of pros and cons. Be sure that the student includes personal experiences with similar devices/software! An older student can follow or join a social media group or listserv about a specific device or type of device then ask questions and review comments. If the device is a mainstream device, involve the O&M and/or family to take a trip to the store for hands-on with the device. If the device is not available in a local store (such as a braille display), have the student reach out to the local sales representative and see about scheduling a demo. Can the student attend a conference and browse through the vendor booths? Does another local student or adult have the device/software? Some state-wide resources such as the school for the blind, Lighthouse, or AT department/agency may be an option for a loan or demo.
The student is the person who will be using the device or software daily – it is important that the student have input and that the student learn how to research and make informed decisions about his/her technology! Students should have exposure to various types of tech and should not be afraid to try new devices and software.
These activities should encourage the student’s curiosity, helping the student to adjust to new features, new updates and new technology – tech is always evolving and so should the student!
If you student uses JAWS or Fusion, the How to Upgrade or Transfer JAWS or Fusion License post has step-by-step instructions that can be included in your student’s tech file or used to install, upgrade or delete these licenses.
by Diane Brauner
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