| Abstract
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| Assistive Technologies and Software to Achieve Numeracy Goals |
| by Michael O'Leary |
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There appears to be a paucity of publications written on the use of technology to assist with the teaching of numeracy, certainly when compared with what is written for literacy. Numeracy doesn't seem to attract the same degree of community concern, and hence publicity, that literacy is currently attracting. Yet developers of special needs technologies have not ignored this important area of the curriculum. Software, which augments the teaching of early mathematical concepts such as shapes and patterns, is available . Numerous software packages include counting activities. Switch accessible, talking calculators, that offer a variety of layout formats are available. Math programs that allow for the setting out of sums on the screen, as is typically taught in schools, have been developed for students who are unable to use pencil and paper.
This workshop will give a broad overview of the access tools and software titles currently available to assist students with disabilities acquire numeracy skills.
Some readers may not be aware of the shortage of software titles available for teaching currency in this country. Obviously, the British pounds, shillings and pence is not applicable. Less obvious is the fact that while the USA has dollars and cents, they use quarters rather than twenty cent pieces. So not only are the currency and graphics wrong, so too is the arithmetic when it comes to US currency. These problems prompt this author to suggest the popular Australian title "Let's Go Shopping" for people seeking an appropriate software title to teach currency.
This presentation will offer an opportunity to investigate strategies, tools and a selection of the software available to assist with teaching numeracy.
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| SUGGESTED READING
Khalsa, A. (1996). Multi Math Adaptations (Final Report No. DMI-9461500). National Science Foundation.
Metheny, R. (1997). Curriculum Adaptations: Improving student success.
Closing The Gap, Inc.
Rocklage, L. A. & Lake, M. E. (1998). Inclusion through infusion: A technology/curriculum partnership for all children. Closing The Gap, Inc.
Symington, L. & Stanger, C. (1999). IntelliTools Math in Eastern Tennessee. Unpublished Article.
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| Demonstration (45 mins) |
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Date submitted: Sunday, 17 September 2000
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