Journal 10

Disabled Bodies, Able Minds: Giving Voice, Movement and Independence to the Physically Challenged. Diane Curtis, Edutopia.org

This article is the most amazing one that I have read in this course. The accomplishments that were never before possible bring tears to my eyes. It is about assistive technology, and it has enabled communication for those who had no means of communication. It has enabled people with arms that don't work to play instruments that they never dreamed of playing. It has given a voice to those who didn't have one. It has allowed students that don't have full mobility to participate in classroom and school activities.

My favorite story is about a good-natured boy who does not have use of his arms & legs, but wants to play a musical instrument. He chooses the euphonium, which he can blow through, but without the use of his arms, he can only play one note. He patiently waits for his note and plays it with abundant enthusiasm. He inspires a school employee to search for someone that can modify the boy's euphonium, so that he can play more notes. Voila!! They find someone who designs a euphonium with a joystick that electronically instructs the valves to move. That boy is now completely in the band and able to play many notes.

Question 1: Do the costs outweigh the benefits for assistive technology?
Answer: In my opinion, there is no cost that could outweigh the benefits to both the individuals and our society for this type of technology. It gives hope to those who didn't have much before.

Question 2: In what ways, can I help insure that we can get funding for assistive technology?
Answer: Good, old-fashioned letter writing to our legislators and bringing awareness to the public on how much benefit assistive technology is to our disabled students would be a great way to get started.