.jpg?width=100&name=TW0_5573%20(1).jpg)
As educational technology becomes an increasingly vital part of classrooms, its impact is especially profound in special education. For students with learning differences, the right tools can open doors to new ways of learning, making education more accessible and tailored to their unique needs. The June Shelton School and Evaluation Center, known for its dedication to students with varying learning needs, is at the forefront of this transformation. In the recent episode of *Digiexam Dialogues: Voices of Innovation*, two of the school’s experienced educators, Joe Mallick and Mary Bashara, share how they harness technology to create a more inclusive, effective learning environment.
Leveraging Technology for Differentiated Learning
At the heart of their approach is the use of technology, not just to enhance teaching, but to individualize it. Joe Mallick, an English and film teacher, has embraced a nearly paperless classroom, allowing for more streamlined communication and better organization for his students. Meanwhile, Mary Bashara, a social studies teacher, faces the challenge of teaching students with varying abilities and learning differences, all within the same classroom. Technology like Digiexam enables her to deliver customized assessments, ensuring that each student can engage meaningfully with the material. This tailored approach is crucial in classrooms where students’ needs are diverse.
The Challenge of Fair Grading
One key issue that arises with differentiation is grading. How can educators fairly assess students who are taking modified versions of the same test? Mary grapples with this question regularly. Technology provides the tools to differentiate, but it also raises important questions about equity in assessment. This challenge underscores the need for continued innovation in how educators use technology to support both teaching and evaluation.
The Role of AI in the Classroom
The conversation about technology in education wouldn't be complete without discussing AI. While artificial intelligence offers powerful tools for personalized learning, it also poses challenges. There’s a fine line between using AI to enhance learning and allowing it to replace essential critical thinking skills. The educators at the June Shelton School are mindful of this balance, ensuring that students use AI responsibly and without losing their own voice in the process.
The Power of Collaboration
A key takeaway is the importance of collaboration between educators and technology developers. The most effective educational tools are those designed with input from the people who use them every day—teachers. This collaboration ensures that technology, not only automates tasks, but also enriches the learning experience and provides valuable insights that guide instruction.
Designing Classrooms for All Learners
The future of education lies in adopting universal design principles, where tools and strategies benefit all students, regardless of their abilities. However, universal design doesn’t mean a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it involves offering a range of tools that teachers can use to meet the diverse needs of their students. The experiences at the June Shelton School show that when technology is thoughtfully integrated, it can be a powerful force for inclusivity and critical thinking.
Why Listen?
This episode provides invaluable insights into the practical application of educational technology in special education. If you’re an educator, administrator, or involved in developing educational tools, you’ll find useful takeaways on how to balance innovation with the core elements of teaching. Learn how to use technology to enhance accessibility, promote fairness, and, most importantly, preserve the critical thinking that is essential for student success. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of differentiation or exploring the role of AI in the classroom, this episode offers a roadmap for integrating technology in a way that truly benefits students.
Listen to the full episode of *Digiexam Dialogues: Voices of Innovation* to learn more about how the June Shelton School and Evaluation Center is shaping the future of education with technology.