I do not think eight-year old Jamie is ready for online distance learning. An eight year old depends on his parents for repairing the computer he uses for distance learning, needs to be able to read and understand online assignments, be disciplined, manage time, work independently, contact the instructor utilizing the telephone or e-mail regarding any problems, and be able to use a word processor and e-mail. Jamie is not ready to take on this responsibility by himself.
Jamie’s parents need to take an active role in any distance learning Jamie attempts. Laurel Springs School is an online elementary school that offers a project-based curriculum for students from kindergarten through eighth grade. (2011) Jamie falls in this age group. Laurel Springs project-based curriculum may work for Jamie as it is not online. Instead, it revolves around hands-on projects that can only help Jamie develop his coordination. Subjects covered include “language arts, math, social studies, health, science,” and art. Enrolling in Laurel Springs School means that Jamie would be taking classes at home and one or both of his parents would need to stay home with him to help teach him.
Assistive Technology, or AT, that may work for Jamie is utilizing a computer program which understands the spoken word and can turn the spoken word into the written word since Jamie has problems writing. The school district needs to assist with providing Jamie the appropriate computer and software. Providing Jamie what he needs would be accomplished through Jamie’s Individualized Education Program, or IEP. Utilizing such AT will allow Jamie to stay in school where he can socialize with the other students. If Jamie took the program through Laurel Springs School, he would be isolated at home.
References
Cited Research Center. (n.d.) Using assistive technology to support writing. Retrieved from
cited.org
Laurel Springs School. (2011). Curriculum. Retrieved from
laurelsprings9.reachlocal.net/grade-k-8/curriculum/.
