Article Reflection
Reading difficulties in the general education classroom: A taxonomy of text modification strategies-- Edyburn


I found that this article really hit home with me. Especially with the my English class this year where I have many students who struggle with reading on a daily basis. At the beginning Edyburn posed the question, what happens when a child with a learning disability cannot read at grade level?” This is a question I struggle with regularly. The reading task analysis also made me more cognizant of this as well. I have some students in various subjects that are reading extremely far below grade level. It can be challenging to find appropriate and meaningful texts that meet the needs of all students. I have been beginning to explore assistive technology for these students. I have tried a few apps and strategies, and I am learning along the way. The fear of the unknown is still present, but wading through it is better than the alternative.

He says later on that at some point we need to turn to assistive technology. Simple, but something I don’t think we (or at least I) am doing as much as I should be. I realize not how many options there are and how many truly useful and effective apps there are readily available. I do think it is important to carefully analyze and choose what is best for the student, however, I think that remediation is our default, as we truly need to examine why we are doing what we are doing. If we see that remediation will benefit the student, and progress is being made, then that is a strategy that can be continued. “Routine failure to attain appropriate levels of academic performance should trigger assistive technology consideration.” (2) I think we need to ensure that we are assessing all situations and choosing the best course of action for the student.

One thing I find difficult is lack of knowledge and useful and effective training. It discourages me to think of all the teachers out there that would be using more compensatory approaches if only they knew more about the technology or which would be a good match for each student. BUT, we can teach and work with each other. I have begun conferencing with teachers at school and discussing what apps might benefit certain students. I am excited to see where it goes!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EjJg9NfTXos#t=59