Fusion

Q: What category of assistance technology does the fusion fit into?

A: It primarily fits into the category of writing: productivity through text and auditory feedback.
Q: How does the Fusion work?

A:The fusion is similar to a computer int tht it has a keyboard and screen. However this is used for language. An individual types a word into the machine and the Fusion tells the person how to spell it. Also the machine can say the word or sentence for the person after it has been written.

Q: Which of the Universal Design for Learning principles might be facilitated by this technology?

A: This tool helps to facilitate the principle of expression of knowledge. It allows a child to write rather than speak because the machine will speak for the child. It also helps a child when writing by helping with spelling of words and grammar. I

Q: What types of groups of students might benefit from the use of technology?

A: It can be used, for example, for children with Autism who may have a difficult time communicating with others but can type easily. It could also be used for children who are learning English because for some students it is easier to read and type than it is to pronounce. These are just a couple of examples of the way it can be used to facilitate learning by expression of knowledge.

Q: For what learning goals might it be most effective.

A: This tool can be used for writing goals. It could be used to help students fulfill writing assignments. Also it could be used for students to be able to communicate through writing and then have the machine verbalize to another person. This could be very helpful for class discussions or for a child to give an answer to a question or oral exam.

Q: Do you have any concerns or reservations about this technology.

A: To begin with this technology is quite expensive. It runs at about 400 dollars per fusion. Although the fusion is worth every penny of this it may be that a school or parent is not able to afford such a machine. In planning who will use a fusion a teacher needs to be very careful to pick the students that really need it because of the cost.

Also, the fusion could be used as a modification. Some students may need it as a modification for spelling or grammar or speaking. However, students who do not need this assistance should probably not use it so that they can work on their skills in these areas instead of relying on a machine.

Q: What comments, suggestions or recommendations might you make to a teacher contemplating the use of this assertive technology?

A: Having students use this machine for speaking may take a lot of time. The rest of the class will need to be very Patience when waiting for someone using this machine to be able to finish typing in what they want to say and for the machine to repeat it. The students will need to be instructed by their teacher to be patient during this process. They will also need her example of patience.

Also the fusion will need to be taken care of. The student using it should be instructed about where a safe place to keep the fusion is. Also other students should be instructed to not touch or use it. Only the student who needs it should use it and he or she should be instructed on how to properly and carefully use it.