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This class posed a real-world design problem for students to explore—how are computers modified for use by special needs students? Twenty 5th/6th grade students worked with a class of special education kindergarten students to create software for them to use. Their language and mental disabilities require specialized, hard-to-find software that teaches simple concepts like cause and effect. The kindergartners also have severe movement disabilities, so they need special switches in order to use a computer. The older students researched their clients’ needs and interests by talking with an occupational therapist at their school, interviewing staff and visiting their clients’ class. Then the designers used a new programming tool developed by MIT called Scratch, to create software and switches specially suited to each kindergarten student. They tested the projects with their clients and also posted information on the Scratch website, sharing with the world. This project was featured by T.H.E Journal.
CURRICULAR CONNECTIONS: Language Arts, Mathematics, Standards for Technological Literacy.
