It’s no secret that we live in a technical age. Adults, teenagers and even young children are adapting to the changing technologies that will shape our future, and for some, that process begins in the classroom. For those of us who were hooked on phonics, it’s hard to imagine a classroom that substitutes an iPad for a chalkboard. Many are skeptical about the idea of students using digital devices during school — but in the 21st century, these devices can enable our students to easily research topics, learn new languages, and hone their problem-solving skills.

Teachers, parents and policy makers alike have long been comparing the pros and cons of technology in the classroom versus a more traditional academic setting. But for a child who struggles with learning disabilities, there’s nothing “traditional” about the way their brain processes new information. So why not embrace the technology that’s been created to change the way we learn? When we consider these three benefits to incorporating technology in the classroom, the payoff becomes clear:

  1. Software Designed with Learning in Mind

There are countless apps, websites and online programs that have been developed to enhance student success. Students can benefit from educational apps that target foundational skills, develop emotional and social skills, and help students with organizational tactics and project management. Text-to-speech programs, Accelerated Reader (AR) and Rosetta Stone are just a few examples of this kind of software.

  1. Career and Workplace Readiness 

When it comes to preparing students for their future, it’s impossible to ignore the increasing demand for technological skills within the job market. By integrating digital tools into the classroom, we can equip our students with the technical confidence required for a variety of industries and career opportunities. Additionally, we can reduce the fear of new technology in the future by familiarizing students with innovative software and digital tools at an early age.

  1. Engaged Students = Active Learners

For students with learning disabilities, technology can level the playing field. In many cases, lecture-style teaching can leave the student feeling lost, distracted or disengaged — but virtual programs have changed the game. We now have the ability to customize by learning style, allowing students to pause, rewind, or even skip ahead through the use of interactive learning activities. Subjects that were once considered “boring” can now be interactive, fun and engaging to even the most distracted students.

Technology leads to collaborative learning environments that provide students with the tools they need to reach major academic breakthroughs. Today’s digital world will require students to possess a certain level of technological intelligence in order to excel in this new era. For children with learning differences, you can give them a head start by enrolling in a program that blends traditional instruction with today’s technology. Embracing these digital tools can have a profound impact on your child’s learning.

About Hill School

Hill School is a college preparatory, full-service school for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, high-functioning ASD and other learning differences. Hill School is launching its new-and-improved summer school programs in June 2019, which will be open to Hill School and non-Hill School students entering K-12 in fall 2019.

Located in southwest Fort Worth, Hill School’s 40 faculty and staff members teach grades K-12. Hill School focuses on intensive small-group instruction in core subject areas to ensure that all students have an opportunity to reach their full academic potential. Students also explore interests and affinities through athletics, fine arts (drama, visual arts, music) and a wide variety of community involvement activities. For more information, visit www.hillschool.org or www.Facebook.com/HillSchool.