“Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” This quote by John Wooden adequately describes how difficulties experienced by individuals should not hinder or impede them from accomplishing a goal. In the classroom there are numerous challenges faced by students, however these challenges should not be allowed to interfere with their ability to learn and excel in everyday tasks. For students faced with writing and spelling challenges the use of technology can facilitate and improve their learning experience. A closer look at the pros and cons of utilizing technology in the classroom for students with severe writing and spelling challenges will be explicated. Writing forms an integral aspect of the education system, for students with writing and spelling challenges this may be an obstacle which may hinder there ability to reach their full potential. However, the use of assistive technology can be utilized to overcome these challenges. Assistive technology as defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997 (IDEA) is "any piece of equipment, or product system . . . that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities" [Part A, Sec. 602(1)]. Assistive technology according to Lewis (1998) plays two …show more content…
Computers, specialized software and portable keyboards deliver effective methods of editing, recording and sharing ideas for students who may have a learning disability which presents writing and spelling challenges. One major advantage it facilitates is legible and consistent documents. Less time is spent on correcting writing, focusing instead on communicating ideas. Moreover through the use of word processors numerous revisions can be facilitated forgoing the process of rewriting, therefore allowing learners to pay closer attention to the