As Disability Resource providers, we are being encouraged to rely more on technology to support our students than ever before.
Technology companies are constantly coming out with updates, new tools, and features to help support our students. As a result, it should be easy for us as professionals to find a tool that works for a student and to have these students buy-in to using the technology. However, more and more, this is not the case. Frequently, we hear questions such as: “how do I engage my students with their technology?” or “how do I get my students to take ownership of the tools I’m providing for them?”
We think of students as being tech savvy. Having grown up in an age where technology surrounds them, people assume they are technology literate. However, research is beginning to dispute this. Students are technologically savvy at the things they use every day to communicate with one another, but basic computer functions, problem solving skills around technology, and technology exploration are not characteristics that define the students we work with. As a result, many students need to be supported when implementing technology.
There are multiple reasons why a student may not want to engage with, use, or buy-into assistive technology use. Consider the following reasons when working with a student who is resistant to use AT: