Meghan Christensen

SLM-521

7/9/09

Elective #9

Instruction Modifications for Computer Activities

 

Hearing Impaired:

  1. Have directions written out by the computer.
  2. Give one-on-one directions to the student before letting them begin the project.
  3. Pictures may be helpful in written directions. (Actions to show what to do.)
  4. Start off with a simple program to get the basic idea of the activity and build on that.
  5. Try and incorporate some background knowledge of an activity before leaving them to pursue it.
  6. During speech classes, have the teacher visit vocabulary or the topic of which the student will be using on the computer.
  7. Make sure the program has subtitles if the directions are said to the viewer.
  8. Have a partner with the student (if an aide can not be there). If the partner does not know sign language then they can write to each other. This would be helpful incase a program does not have subtitles or written directions.
  9. Make sure wherever the computer is located that it is not where there can be other visual distractions. The student needs to focus on their task.
  10. If it is a younger child, get them use to a keyboard and computer before having them complete any activities.

 

ADD:

  1. Go over the directions with the student and have them say it back to you.
  2. Write directions down on a piece of paper so they can clearly see what they need to do (step-by-step format).
  3. Set a time limit for that task. If they want to have a timer nearby then provide one.
  4. Demonstrate an example task before letting the child complete it by themselves.
  5. Give the child a checklist to follow for every task they completed.
  6. Always demonstrate how that computer activity relates to activities completed in class.
  7. If it is necessary, allow a partner to work with them to help keep them on task and to reinforce the directions.
  8. Do not use a website or program with a lot of visual or audio distractions.
  9. Keep the activities similar if the student will be completing computer assignments during independent times. (And always provide a lesson of what to do before drastically changing the activity.)
  10. Visual show them how to behave at the computer. It may become a problem if they are constantly getting up from their seat. They need to be cautious around the computer so there will not be any accidents.