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=SPECIAL NEEDS TOOLKIT=

//**__Suggested Technology Apps for Students with Disabilities__**//
__//Word Processors//__ Standard applications on word processors, such as spell check, grammar check, and font size and color changes, have the ability to help children with dyslexia. These are easy and ready to use applications on normal word documents, such as microsoft word.

//__Reading Systems__// These applications allow text on the screen to be read aloud. This is very beneficial for those students that learn better by listening rather than reading. Reading systems also include options such as highlighting, changing the amount of words presented on the screen at a given moment, and increasing the size and/or changing the color of the text. Some common reading systems are: [|Freedom Scientific's WYNN] and [|Kurzweil Educational Systems']Kurzweil 3000.

//__Concept Mapping__// This application is for students who have trouble integrating their ideas in their writing. Therefore, it allows for the visual representation of ideas and concepts. They are given physical properties and can be connected with arrows to show the relationship between ideas. Example:

Wikipedia contributors. "Concept map." //Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia//. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 20 Mar. 2012. Web. 16 Apr. 2012.

__//Phonetic Spelling//__ Students with special needs, such as dyslexia, often spell the phonetically, which makes spell checkers useless. There are applications that help to change phonetic spelled word into the correct spelling. Some common phonetic spellers are: [|Franklin Electronic Dictionary] and Yak-Yak.

//__Speech Recognition__// This application can be used for students with many different learning disabilities. It takes a spoken word via microphone and converts it to a readable format. Speech recognition software: [|Dragon]

//__Organizational Software/Personal Information Managers (PIMs)__// Organizing can be difficult for somestudents with specific disabilities. Organizational software can accommodate these students by providing a "centralized and portable means of organizing schedules and information." They can help keep a student on task by providing visual "to do" lists. Some common organizational software: [|Microsoft Outlook] and[| IBM Lotus Organizer]

http://www.washington.edu/doit/Stem/articles?71

//__**Information on the IEP**__//
- What is an IEP? An IEP is an individualized education program given to students who receive special education or related services. Each IEP is specialized for that particular student. The "IEP creates an opportunity for teachers, parents, school administrators, related services personnel, and students to work together to improve education results for children with disabilities" (What is an IEP?).

General Steps: "Child is identified as possibly needing special education and related services. - Child is evaluated - Eligibility is decided - Child is found eligible for services. - IEP meeting is scheduled" (Teachers, parents, administrators, other personnel take part) - "IEP meeting is held and the IEP is written - Services are provided - Progress is measured and reported to parents - IEP is reviewed - Child is reevaluated"

What is in the IEP? The IEP must contain information about the child and the designed educational program for their needs. Included is their current performance, special education and related services, their annual goals, accommodations, needed transition services, participation in state wide/district wide tests, and progress.

They also discuss the child's strengths, parent's plan for enhancing child's education, how the child has done on state and district wide tests, etc.

Who Writes the IEP? Includes parent(s), regular teacher, special education teacher, other people in the district/school, and if appropriate the student. THis must take place within 30 days of deciding that the student is eligible.

How do you write the IEP? The team who makes the IEP will be looking at the child's school records, classroom tests, any health records, observations by teachers, observations of parents, observations of professionals, administrations, etc.

After the IEP is written: - Parents receive a copy free of cost - Everyone involved with IEP has access to document

Parents Permission: Before school can provide services, they need parents' written permission.

http://www.ncld.org/at-school/your-childs-rights/iep-aamp-504-plan/what-is-an-iep

//**__Collection of websites, blogs, and social media focused in this field:__**//
"On Special Education"
 * http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/speced/
 * This is a blog focused on up to date national and local issues regarding special education.

"Special Needs Neighborhood"
 * http://www.specialneedsneighborhood.com/wordpress/
 * A website about special needs news and more.

"Special Education Network"
 * http://www.specialednet.com/
 * a website dedicated to providing information and resources on the Education of Children with Special Needs.

"Disability Scoop"
 * http://www.disabilityscoop.com/
 * A website for developmental disability news.

"Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services"
 * http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/index.html
 * OSEP provides leadership and financial support to assist states and local districts for infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities