Assistive technology works as an inclusive classroom integration plan by neutralizing inaccessible classroom elements. Assistive technology ranges from computer software and hardware designed for the disabled to specialized pencil grips and walking devices like wheelchairs and canes. For instance, take a student who struggles with fine motor skills. Placing a keyboard containing larger keys in the classroom will allow her to type easier. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires schools to provide needed assistive technology as long as the child's IEP (Individualized Education Plan) requests the devices. The IEP request must explain the need for the assistive technology.
Classroom accommodations assist where assistive technology can't. These accommodations work to increase safety in an inclusive environment. For example, a child who lacks good balance could receive permission to store his textbooks inside the classroom. This way he doesn't struggle carrying heavy textbooks around in the hallway. Like with assistive technology needed, classroom accommodations should get noted on the child's IEP.
Disability awareness proves vital for integrating special education students into a healthy inclusive classroom environment. Students with disabilities can become outcasts or targets for bullying due to their differences. Raising disability awareness helps to show children with handicaps hold the same wants and needs as their classmates. Schools can spread disability awareness several ways. KYFR TV Channel 5 reported on a disability fair Solheim Elementary School holds annually to raise awareness. Sixth graders study various disabilities and use the fair to teach younger students about the different conditions. Another way to integrate disability awareness revolves around guess speakers like Tony Bartoli, a youth speaker with cerebral palsy who speaks to schools about preventing bullying.
Implementing extracurricular activities into an integration plan helps to provide a complete inclusive classroom experience by establishing opportunities to make friends. Try to find extracurricular activities that fit the child's personality. Sometimes this process takes creativity. For example, in the fall KTVZ covered a story about Garret Manuel, a student with cerebral palsy at Sisters High School, who joined his school's football team. While his wheelchair prevented him from playing in the actual game, the team named Manuel their "spirit leader." He received his own uniform and traveled with the team on the road.