The course Communication Through Technology is primarily designed to provide assistance to visually impaired and blind students in accessing the general education curriculum in which they are enrolled at the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences. In the course, students will learn how to use assistive technology to complete assignments from their general education courses. Assistive technology in this setting includes the use of computing devices, such as laptop computers and mobile computing tablets, such as the iPad, and also computing devices that display information by refreshable Braille display, and receive input from standard six-key Braille entry. Other technology may include devices such as CCTVs (for print enlargement and collaboration with sighted teachers and students), Braille writers, embosers, and printers to produce material (e.g., class assignments) in print format for sighted teachers, classmates, and collaborators.

As technology increases and improves, new types of technology become available to visually impaired and blind students. One such technology is 3D printing. Having tactile models for concepts discussed in general education classes enables visually impaired and blind students to gain a clearer understanding of the concepts being discussed. In Communication Through Technology, students will learn how to use this new technology to enhance their ability to participate in their general education curriculum. Other related technologies that may be included in Communication Through Technology include computer programming and use of specially designed laboratory equipment for participation in science classes.

In addition to the material considered above, subject matter for Communication Through Technology will include some items from the document "Expanded Core Curriculum Subjects and Skills" which is attached to this syllabus.

Grading

Given that this course is primarily for the support of the students, students will be graded on a participatory basis. Students will receive 10 points for every class meeting they attend, and, at the discretion of the teacher, for class meetings in which they are absent due to illness, medical appointments, etc. If a student displays an uncooperative attitude, in effect refusing to participate, the teacher may assign a lower point total for the class meeting in which the student refuses to participate. Refusal to participate will also adversely affect the work habits and cooperation marks of the student.

At the end of every grading period the point total of the student will be computed. The ratio of the student's point total to the number of points possible will be computed and expressed as a percent. That percent will then be compared to the scale below, and a corresponding grade will be assigned to the student:

90% - 100%                A

80% - 89%                  B

70% - 79%                  C

60% - 69%                  D

< 60%                          Fail

The teacher will occasionally assign specific assignments that go beyond the normal classwork, which usually involves the work the students receive in their general education courses. These additional assignments will be incorporated into the participation grade the student receives.