IES/OSEP ED GAMES Expo, 2021

Special Education Technology Showcase
June 1, 2021

The 2021 ED Games Expo Special Education Showcase highlighted the game-changing impact of accessible technology through the candid expressions and experiences of students, parents, teachers, professors, scientists, and researchers. Their stories drive home the importance of accessible technology enabling learners with disabilities to fully participate in all aspects of education, daily living, and advancement to postsecondary and career opportunities.

Module 1

Introductions

featuring Terry Jackson, Ed.D., Education Program Specialist, OSEP, and Amanda Bastoni, Ed. D., Research Scientist, CAST, Inc.

Terry Jackson, Lead for the Office of Special Education Programs Technology Program, and Amanda Bastoni, CAST Research Scientist, welcome attendees to the Special Education Showcase. You’ll meet special guest, Matthew Whitaker, award-winning jazz musician and lifelong accessible technology user. Watch Matthew share his story and music in Module 6.

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Module 2

Game-Changing Technology

Students talk about the extensive impact that accessible technology has on their lives, including participation in recreational activities, increased daily independence, and progress toward educational and employment goals.

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Module 3

Student Panel

Module 3 features students sharing what they want people to know about the importance of accessibility in their lives. You’ll learn about the students and the challenges they face when digital books, video games, and high stakes assessments aren’t made accessible.

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Module 4

Where Are We Going Next With Assistive Technology?

Teachers, professors, researchers, and scientists explain how accessible design can shape the future of technology. Artificial intelligence, immersive technologies, and augmented reality are just a few of the innovations highlighted in this segment.

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Module 5

Adult Panel

Module 5 features professionals sharing why it was important for them to participate in the Special Education Showcase. The panelists provide insights on how accessible technology reduces inequalities, enables relationships among diverse people, and advances educational and career opportunities for all individuals.

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Module 6

A Musical Chat
with Matthew Whitaker

featuring Terry Jackson, Ed.D., Education Program Specialist, OSEP, and Matthew Whitaker, Award-winning Jazz Musician and Composer

Terry Jackson, Ed.D., interviews jazz musician and Juilliard student Matthew Whitaker, who discusses the types of accessible technology he’s used as a learner and musician – and the impact they’ve had on his success. Matthew also offers advice to students, parents, and teachers. The module concludes with Matthew demonstrating how he used accessible technology to write a song for the Special Education Showcase.

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