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For many people, the term "disability" conjures up images of individuals with physical impairments. We need to think more broadly. It seems to me that anyone who is denied full access to information and ideas -- or the means to express themselves as individuals -- has a type of disability.

This article is by George Lucas, the founder of Edutopia. He talks about his feeling that technology can help all of us achieve our own potential and discover our own disabilities.

Twurdy uses text analysis software to rate a website's reading level using a color coded system. This would help a student find age appropriate information when researching. Some of the topics that we research are volcanoes, planets, and the weather. I currently limit students to using certain websites that I link to my school website. With this search engine I could allow students to have more independence and find reliable information that is age-appropriate.

This free download enables you to choose text from a word document, the Internet, or a pdf file and listen to the words being read. The upgraded version gives different voice options. I could have students use this when reading about a science topic on the computer because the vocabulary is difficult. This is helpful for students with tracking problems and dyslexia.

Fizz Brain Apps were designed by teachers for students with autism and Asperger's Syndrome. They focus on social skills and creative play. The Feel and Write App is practice in writing letters with fun materials such as shaving cream and chocolate. The Look In My Eyes Apps are an engaging way to allow students to practice making eye contact.