Giving Compass' Take:

• In this story from Getting Smart, author Rachelle Dene Poth discusses how teachers can find the best resources for their students with disabilities.

• How can the nonprofit sector connect teachers with the resources available for them and their special needs students.

• To learn about the importance of having tech savvy teachers, click here.

Finding resources for our classrooms today should seem like an easy task. When it comes to technology, there are thousands of options available within seconds by completing a simple Google search. However, with so many options, the choice can become somewhat challenging. Knowing which tools will provide the best learning experience for students ... takes time. [N]ew apps and teaching tools are being developed every day [and] there are amazing developments for individuals with disabilities. The decisions we make need to be based on selecting the tools that will enrich the learning experience and provide personalized opportunities for each student, rather than based on which tools populate the Google search the fastest.

The most important step is to always start by getting to know your students. Building relationships are the most important aspect of our role as educators. Find ways for students to interact by including time for students to work together and learn about one another. Sometimes technology is the way to do this, choose a game or find a resource online that students can engage in together. Make time to connect with families and share the resources that are being used in school so that families can provide the same support at home. Also don’t be afraid to reach out to the special education teachers in your building. We are preparing students for the future and need to provide all that we can to give them the best opportunities for learning and growing together.

Read the full article about assistive education technology by Rachelle Dene Poth at Getting Smart.