Crafting Technology-Based IEPs

Key points:

Individualized education plans (IEPs) have been the foundation of special education for decades, and the process in which these documents are written has evolved over the years.

As technology has evolved, document writing has evolved as well. Before programs existed to streamline the IEP writing process, creating IEPS was a daunting paper-and-pencil task. Not only is the process of writing the IEP evolving, but IEPs are becoming technology.

Improving IEP goal progress with data-driven insights using technology: There are a variety of learning platforms that can monitor a student's performance in real time, adapting to their individual needs and intermediate areas for improvement. Data from these programs can be used to create annual student IEP goals. This study mentions that the reading reading The program, used to progress IEP goals, has 1.2 million teachers and 17 million students using its resources, which provide content, curricular support and digital tools. ReadWorks is free and provides all of its resources for free and has print and digital versions of the material available for teachers and students (non-profit Education technology, 2021).

Student Engagement and Participation in technology-Driven IEPs: technology-driven IEPs can also empower students to take an active role in their educational plan. According this studyResearch shows that special education students benefit from educational technology, especially in conceptual teaching and hands-on feedback type instructional activities (Carter & Center, 2005; Hall, Hughes, & Filbert, 2000; Hasselbring & Glaser , 2000). It is vital that students take ownership of their learning. When students on an IEP reach a certain age, it is important for them to be the active leader in their plan. Digital tools used for technology-based IEPs can provide students with visual representations of their progress, such as dashboards or graphs. When students receive a visual representation of their progress, their engagement and motivation increases.

technology-Driven IEPs Make Learning Fun: This study Discusses technology-enhanced and play-based learning for children with special needs. Gamified programs, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) change the learning experience from traditional to transformational. Gamified programs are meant to motivate students with rewards, personalized feedback, and competition with leaderboards and challenges to make learning feel like play. Virtual reality gives students an immersive experience that they would otherwise only be able to experience outside of the classroom. It enables deep engagement and experiential learning through virtual field trips and simulations, without the risk of visiting dangerous locations or expensive field trip fees that not all districts or students can afford. Augmented reality allows students to visualize abstract concepts such as anatomy or 3D shapes in context. All of these technologies align with technology-based IEPs by providing personalized, accessible, and measurable learning experiences that address various needs. These technologies can adapt to a student's individual skill level, pace, and goals, supporting their IEP.

Challenges with technology-Driven IEPs: Although there are many benefits to
technology-driven IEPs, it is important to address potential challenges to ensure equity in school districts. Access to technology in underfunded school districts can be challenging without adequate investment in infrastructure, devices, and network connectivity. Student privacy and data must also be properly addressed. With the use of technologies for technology-driven IEPs, school districts must take into account laws such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Integrating technology into the IEP process to create technology-driven IEPs represents a shift from a traditional process to a transformative process. technology-based IEPs create more student-centered learning experiences by implementing digital tools, improving collaboration, and personalized learning experiences. These learning experiences will improve student engagement and motivation and allow students to take control of their own learning, making them leaders in their IEP process. However, as technology continues to evolve, it is important to address the capital gap that can arise in underfunded school districts.