Tablet Devices used to Help Nonverbal Children CommunicateSARA GOLDBERG

“Without the talker, Teresa said, she would hardly know her son.”

Children with various intellectual disabilities are unable to communicate verbally.

Communication devices help students to communicate in every day life, as well as learn.

Cost and Benefits for School District

Each devices costs about $9,000.

School district paid $55,000 on technology for students with special needs.

The goal is to be able to include students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.

Opinion

The article presents the “talker” as vital in his life.

For many people without the device, their lives can still be meaningful and they can still have deep relationships with other people.

Highlights and Pitfalls

Enhance quality of life.

Students can participate in mainstream classrooms in a more full and involved way.

Students can express themselves using words, which may help prevent frustration and tantrums.

People seem to hold the device to an extremely high level.

The device is limited to the words and phrases that other program for the students.

Discussion Prompts

Do you think the school should rely so much on these devices?

How much do you think inclusion is strengthened by these devices?

Have you encountered a person using this kind of device and what was the experience like?

Article Link

http://trib.com/lifestyles/home-and-garden/hi-hello-i-m-kelby-talking-device-brings-voice-to/article_f9b598b4-1381-570f-9a37-29874a0876f2.html