Technology and Special Education: An Observation Protocol for Inclusive Classrooms

• In Event: Moscone Center North Roundtable Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: Using Technology to Improve Educational Opportunities for Students With Disabilities

Abstract

This study designed, validated, and piloted a classroom observation protocol in the use of Assistive Technology (AT). The goal was to develop a classroom observation instrument that would provide feedback on the use of technology, which would reflect “best practices” from our growing understanding of Learning Sciences regarding how children learn, and our growing understanding of the “wise use” of technology to reflect these best practices. The study used a convergent parallel mixed method design to collect and analyze both qualitative and quantitative data in developing a protocol for use in inclusive classrooms. Findings suggest that the protocol is helpful in reflecting a sense of how AT is used in the context of best practices for the inclusive classroom.

Authors

• Xiaoxue Du, MIT Media Lab

• Ellen B. Meier, Teachers College, Columbia University