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When carefully designed and implemented, computer related technologies can facilitate student-centered learninghelp students reflect on their learning process (metacognitive skills), encourage higher order thinking, foster information literacy and build communication skills
Allowing students to create their own software using such authoring programs as HyperCard, HyperStudio, Digital Chisel, Tutor-Tech, or Linkway accomplishes a number of goals. The task is enjoyable. The product can be shared easily with others. The student is forced to think about how to structure the material, how to prioritize and how to present it. The finished product can look more polished with less "artistic" ability. I find that working with MR/DD students, there are additional benefits: the technology can compensate for certain deficits and working together on a computer project encourages language and communication between even students who are reluctant to talk.
Just got a computer or two in your classroom? Congratulations! You don't have to discard all your old lesson plans. If you send me a lesson plan that has been working for you, I will show you ways to incorporate technology into it.