Take the Pencil Out of the Process
This is a very interesting article about
ASD students struggling with dysgraphia (printing) and/or dyscriptia (writing). Dysgraphia is a learning disability that
affects writing, which requires a complex set of motor and information
processing skills. Dysgraphia makes the act of writing difficult. It can lead
to problems with spelling, poor handwriting and putting thoughts on paper.
People with dysgraphia can have trouble organizing letters, numbers and words
on a line or page. This can result partly from:
*Visual-spatial difficulties: trouble
processing what the eye sees
*Language processing difficulty: trouble
processing and making sense of what the ear hears
It is important to note that not all
students with ASD struggle with dysgraphia and this does not mean they struggle
with other fine motor activities. When I
started to read this article I questioned how students with ASD are such
talented artists and musicians. In the
article they pointed out that “teachers should not assume that an individual
with efficient fine motor skills for other kinds of activities should be able
to develop and refine handwriting skills.
Different neural pathways are involved that do not include the
movements, positions and processes involve in manipulating a writing
instrument.”
Although the article pointed out some arguments
for students not use computers or type they work, I do not agree. It is my belief that we should discover where
students are struggling and help them. Why
make things difficult or challenging this is where we are going to lose
students in the education system. All
students are different and all students have their strengths and challenges it
is our job to discover them and foster success.
This being said I don’t think we should give up on skill development. I think
it is important that students continue working on their challenges. There will come a time when a student is not
going to have their computer or ipad handy and they are going to have to write
a quick note.
Also the writing process...as you will see is SO complicated. Also...re the Fusion? I have to question it's use. Ours (the few we purchased) are all still in the cupboard...dusty;( The device of choice by students are the iPads
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately we only have 2 iPads for the entire school. Students use the fusion writes or netbooks
DeleteI agree with Barb, the iPad is the way to go! Coming from a school that would be considered, "iPad rich", it has opened so many doors for our students. However, it isn't about having the iPads, it is about knowing when and how to use them. For this to happen, students need direct instruction. Although students with an LD will agree they make learning easier, they also admit that they aren't always sure when they should be using it. Fortunately, our job at the Middle Level is to prepare students for high school and beyond. To that end, we spend a lot of time teaching those all important technology, social and study skills. Teachers at the High School thank us often for sending them students who know how to use their technology. I have been where you are, outdated technology and 2 iPads. All I can say is do what you have to to bring them in to your classroom. Ask you Home and School or SAC to help with purchasing the devices. You won't regret your effort!
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