In our discussions of technology and its imminent expansion and advancement, I spent time to ponder this week the ways in which it can both enhance and hinder classroom learning. I have been curious as to the ways accessibility intersects with technology. As we incorporate new programs with video, audio, text, and interaction in the classroom, are there ways that certain students will be excluded? Language, or communication, has been a major theme within the technology discussions in class. Along this theme of language, how can learners be enhanced or hindered by the use of language in new technologies? In this situation I thought specifically about the hard of hearing and deaf community.

For my Inquiry Project I selected learning ASL (or as much as I can for the duration of the semester. I hope to learn new content and discover the ways in which language and communication can take many forms with new technology. As we discussed in class, the SAMR model for technology innovation demonstrates the capacity for new tech to not only be utilized in the classroom, but enhance the classroom.

SAMR Model (https://sites.google.com/a/msad60.org/technology-is-learning/samr-model) Image credit: Sylvia Duckworth, via @DavidGuerin

As you can see, the submarine is where I am headed. My goal is to integrate my ASL learning with new technologies to redefine how new technologies can enhance accessibility in the classroom. This is not a new thought! There are many teachers already working to incorporate these principles in their classrooms. You can view some of them here. I hope to add on to these practices along my inquiry journey and exploration of redefining how technology enhances accessibility.

Thank you.

Helena