IPADS and Autism/Communication Disorders

In the previous post we looked at various AT devices. One of the last devices we looked at was the IPAD. Within this post we are going to be looking at the importance of the IPAD and the impact it has had within the autism and communication disorder communities.

We were given a YouTube video that we were to watch and reflect our thoughts. The link for the video is HERE.

This video shows a woman named Lauren explaining the importance of the IPAD. Lauren is a pediatric occupational therapist; with over 25 years experience. She is an excellent resource for the use of the IPAD when working with students who have autism or a communication disorder. Lauren stresses that the most important element in using the IPAD is to use it correctly.  Teachers/educators have to have knowledge of the IPAD before using it with a student. Lauren also stressed that the IPAD is NOT THERE TO REPLACE COMMUNICATION WITH ANOTHER PERSON. The IPAD should never take the place of another. When using the IPAD with the student make sure you are engaging them while on the IPAD by asking questions or having a discussion. 

While watching the video you are provided many useful apps that can we used in the classroom. Some that I found useful are:

 1. Model Me Going Places App- this is an app that has already made social stories that you can use in the classroom. Since they are already made up and provided it will be a time saver for the teacher.

2.  Sonic Pic App- this is an app that teachers can use to create their own social stories. This allows the teacher/class to be as creative as they want to be.

3. Yes/ No App- this is an app that displays Yes and No on the screen. It can be used with students in the class that display behaviors that would be beneficially to such a tool. This can be used in conjunction with having signs around the room (example for students who might run out the door, put a stop sign up at the door and example what it means).

4. Speak It App- this app allows the user to type words, poems, stories, any type of written material and the IPAD will verbalize the words. This could be used for students who have autism or any type of communication disorder.

5. Doodle Buddy App- this app allows the user to draw using their finger. This could work for any student.

IPADS can work for students of any age and ability. They can be used daily or a few times a week. I would feel comfortable incorporating an IPAD into my future classroom. BEFORE, I do this though I would research all appropriate apps to make sure this was what I was looking for and also to make sure I know how to properly use the app. I don’t want to give my student an app to work on when I didn’t even look at it first.