Journal #9-Signing Science!

Signing Science!
By Judy Vesel, PhD and Cindy L. Anderson, PhD-Volume 32 May (No. 8).
• This article informs us that there is technology tool called EnViSci Network that maximizes learning of science for50,000 or more students who are hearing impaired or hard of hearing. This network is a group of ten standards-based curriculum units for grades 3-8. Each unit contains Web site where students can do research and share topics on science related materials. EnViSci Network makes materials more accessible to students whose first language is sign, has created starter set if signed units. These units are the same for they are hearing or hearing impaired. The student hearing impairment would click on Sign It! This calls up “Andy”, the default signing Avatar character to Sign the entire text block. Students can increase or decrease the signing speed. As shown by comparing students’ pre- and post- unit scores, knowledge of the material increased largely for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. These educators reported the addition of signing allows:
• Increased access to the Web-based material and their ability to work independently.
• Students expand their science knowledge and get really excited about material.
• Students can review materials as often as they need to.
• Signing makes the students feel more like their hearing peers. They too can access the material on the Web.
• Teachers can move quickly, and they can do more than interpret the site.
• Signing Avatar helps standardize the signs teachers use in classrooms.

1. How would I find out the most advanced and updated technology tools for my students with special needs? I will read ISTE journals regularly and update my information in this area, as well as attend seminars and conferences that are held for students with special needs.

2. How do I encourage my special education students ‘ parents to provide EnViSci Network for their children at home ? I will set up a meeting for my students’ parents and invite the expert in the field to explain the benefits of this system.

Resources
Dallas Otolaryngology. (2003). Facts
and myths regarding deafness. Available:
http://cochlearimplants.dallasoto.com/
facts/deaf_facts.html.
EnViSci Network: http://www.enviscinetwork.
com/
National Academy of Sciences. (1996).
National science education standards.
Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
No Child Left Behind Act of 2002. Public Law
107–110 (January 8, 2002). Available:
http://www.ed.gov/policy/elsec/leg/esea02/.
SigningAvatar software: http://www.vcom3d.
com/
U.S. Department of Education. (2001).
Twenty-fourth annual report to Congress on
the implementation of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act. Washington,
DC: Offi ce of Special Education Programs.
Available: http://www.ed.gov/about/
reports/annual/osep/2002/appendix-a-pt1.
doc.
What’s the Weather? and Are We Getting the
Oxygen We Need?: http://signsci.terc.edu/