Week Number One of Assitive Technology

     As I began to navigate through the material covered in class, I soon realized that I was now beginning a journey that would pay great dividends to me and my students. Whether we were examining the principles of UDL, convergent technologies, or assistive technologies, each have the potential to transform my teaching practices.
     Having recently attended professional development on the principles of UDL, it is interesting to see this approach applied from a different perspective.  My first impression of UDL was not of something that would apply or could apply a large amount of technology.  The UDL presentation that I received was more so for the general population of the school.  The focus was to increase student interest and motivation all the while taking a different approach to assessment.  It was not until this class and the realization that convergent technology and assistive technologies meshed with the UDL model can make for a very inclusive classroom.  The incorporation of these technologies allows for students to take on an active role in the classroom while realizing their potential.
     The incorporation of UDL methods within the classroom can change the way students view their learning.  Individuals with learning difficulties now can gain access to assistive technology and convergent technology are able to participate while they and their classmates take an active role in the learning process with the incorporation of UDL principles.