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Description: Brothers, Michael and Mitchell Smedley, will share how they use technology to level the field and provide opportunities to thrive in high school, college, and work. Michael will share a day in my life: how technology creates independence and opportunities from the time he wakes up to when he goes to bed. Mitchell will share his journey from being tech-averse to embracing technology as the key to independence. Presenters will demonstrate different technology and Audience members will have an opportunity to field questions about their own technology needs. Instructor: Michael Smedley Instructor s Title: College junior, podcast and radio show host Instructor s Affiliation: Penn State Instructor: Mitchell Smedley Instructor s Title: College-bound high school student Instructor s Affiliation: Thriving Blind Academy Primary Core or ECC Area: Self-determination, social interaction skills, compensatory academics, assistive technology, activities of daily living, career exploration Target Audience: Parents, Teachers working with children with visual impairments and their families Pre-requisite knowledge: None need Materials Needed: None needed Lesson Plan Goal: Participants will gain a deep understanding of the functional application of technology in creating opportunities for academic and social success in school and beyond. Learning Objectives: Participants will 1. Describe what it means to be Thriving Blind 2. Identify 4 categories of technology that students and youth with visual impairment can use to increase access and independence. 3. Identify 2 resources for financial assistance to obtain technology 4. Identify how to include technology in meaningful and functional ways in IEPs |
