Empowering Families: Strengthening Assistive Technology Through Collaboration
Incorporating families into technology partnerships can significantly enhance educational programs. Let’s explore four key strategies for engaging families in collaborative technology initiatives. These approaches are designed to strengthen the relationship between schools and families, fostering a more supportive and interactive learning environment. We must highlight the importance of including families in decision-making processes regarding assistive technology.
According to Dr. Angel Morgan’s work with the Center on Inclusive Technology & Education Systems (CITES) at Arizona State University (2022), families want the following:
Better Communication: Families express the need for improved communication regarding tools that aid in technology and accessibility within schools.
Goals and Plans for Technology Usage: Only 38% of families expressed that school managers questioned the plans and goals we might have about technology usage. Additionally, less than half of these leaders inquire about the specific devices or software families need.
Decision-Making Process: Families want to participate in the overall process of decision-making by utilizing information to specify the practicality and accessibility of technology before schools purchase any device.
How Can Families Support Assistive Technology Initiatives?
Collaborating with families strengthens assistive technology initiatives in several key ways:
Understanding Their Children: Family involvement helps ensure that students receive personalized solutions that meet their unique needs.
Addressing Tech Gaps: Families can identify technology challenges, discuss resource limitations, and highlight necessary training for schools.
Tech-Savvy Assistance: Many families have strong technology skills, and their active participation can help schools implement the most effective solutions.
Primary Source of Student Information: Families provide essential insights about students, supporting schools and districts in managing and sharing data effectively.
How Can Schools Effectively Involve Families in Assistive Tech Projects?
Experts highlight several key strategies for engaging families in assistive technology initiatives. These approaches can help promote collaboration between schools and families:
Gathering Information
The first step is understanding what families need and expect from assistive technology, including their goals for their children’s learning. Surveys and group discussions focused on technology and Special Education can provide valuable insights into how well parents can support their children at home and what types of technology would be most beneficial.
Key Takeaways:
Collect data on families’ needs and priorities.
Identify parents’ learning goals for their children.
Use surveys and discussions to assess how parents can support learning at home and determine the most suitable technology.
How Can Schools Strengthen Communication and Engagement with Families?
Regular communication with families plays a vital role in supporting student success both at school and at home. Schools can enhance engagement through various strategies, including:
Virtual Newsletters – Email digital newsletters from faculty or the district, sharing valuable resources and training opportunities.
Parental Conversations – Maintain regular discussions with parents on topics such as managing learning challenges and integrating technology into education.
Website Information Hub – Provide important updates and resources on the school’s website and email links to families for easy access.
Community Resources – Connect families with local programs that help them secure Wi-Fi access and necessary technology at home.
Inclusive Communication – Ensure all communication is accessible and easy to understand for parents and caregivers, including those with disabilities.
How Can Schools Facilitate Educational Sessions for Families?
Providing families with learning opportunities helps them better support their children in using assistive technology. Schools can implement the following strategies:
Workshops for Everyone— Host in-person and virtual workshops at various times to accommodate different schedules. Cover topics such as Special Education needs, assistive technology tools, and ways for parents to provide feedback on technology modifications.
Tutorials for Parents— Develop and share easy-to-follow tutorials on school and district websites to guide parents in using educational tools and apps.
Help Hotline for Tech Problems—Establish a dedicated helpline to assist parents with technology-related challenges at home.
Advisory Board – Form a parent advisory group that meets monthly to discuss issues affecting students with diverse needs.
Assist Nights for Parents – Organize themed events (e.g., math nights) to provide additional technology support for families.
Family Engagement Organization—Create a dedicated group focused on helping parents support their children in using assistive devices effectively.
How Can Schools Cultivate Understanding and Support for Families?
Building strong relationships with families requires empathy and active listening. Schools can foster understanding and support by:
Listening to Families – Take the time to understand the challenges they face in supporting their children with special needs while balancing other responsibilities.
Providing Emotional Support – Acknowledge that families want their children to succeed and may need guidance in navigating assistive technology and educational resources.
Building Trust Through Connection – Engage with families regularly to develop meaningful relationships and identify the best ways to collaborate effectively.
By prioritizing compassion and open communication, schools can create a supportive environment where families feel heard and empowered.
Conclusion: Why Family Engagement Matters in Assistive Technology
Many families are eager to understand the tools schools use and actively collaborate in their children’s education. They want to learn more about assistive technology that supports students with disabilities. However, meaningful family involvement doesn’t always happen automatically.
Building strong connections between school and home through family engagement creates a solid support network. When schools and families work together, parents and caregivers remain actively involved in their children's learning—especially for those with diverse needs. Technology serves as a powerful bridge, making collaboration more accessible and ensuring that every child has the resources they need to succeed.
References
AI tools to explain family engagement with technology
Morgan, A. (2022). Family engagement within an inclusive technology ecosystem (dissertation). https://www.lib.ncsu.edu/resolver/1840.20/40095
Michele Israel (2023). 4 Strategies to Engage Families in Tech Partnerships https://home.edweb.net/engage-families-in-tech-partnerships/