Preparing for Success: How Technology Can Enhance Your Test Preparation Efforts

Preparing for Success: How Technology Can Enhance Your Test Preparation Efforts

written by Jennifer Woods

Preparing for tests and exams can be a daunting task, particularly for young learners who may feel nervous about their abilities. However, with the right tools and resources at hand, it is possible to approach test prep with confidence and ease. One of the most helpful tools available today is technology, which offers a wide range of resources that can make test prep more efficient, effective, and even enjoyable.
In this article, we will explore some of the ways that technology can enhance your test preparation efforts, making studying easier and more engaging for young learners.

Interactive Practice Tests
Most people agree that practice tests are a valuable tool when preparing for exams, as they help learners become familiar with the types of questions they will encounter and the format of the test itself.
Interactive practice tests take this one step further by providing learners with immediate feedback on their answers, enabling them to identify areas where they need to improve. Platforms like Khan Academy, Quizlet, and RiSE+ offer a multitude of practice tests and questions for learners of all ages, from elementary school through high school and beyond.

Learning Apps
Another way that technology can enhance test prep is through learning apps. These apps provide learners with a fun and engaging way to practice key skills, such as maths, reading, and writing.
Many learning apps are gamified, making the process of learning feel like play. For example, apps like Duolingo offer engaging language practice in bite-sized chunks, while maths apps like Prodigy Math Game make maths practice more enjoyable than ever before.

Online Tutors

While classroom or in-person tutoring is an effective way to boost learning, online tutoring is becoming increasingly popular among learners of all ages. Young learners can benefit from working with online tutors who can provide personalized attention and targeted support. Platforms like VIPKid, Chegg, and Study.com offer access to online tutors who can help learners prepare for specific tests or provide extra support with homework and assignments.

Online Resources and Tools
The internet itself is a powerful tool for learners, providing access to a vast array of resources that can be used to support test prep efforts. From online textbooks and study guides to educational videos and interactive simulations, the internet offers a wealth of information that can help learners understand and master key concepts. Many of these resources are free and easily accessible, making it easier than ever for young learners to learn at their own pace and in their way.

Collaborative Learning Platforms
Finally, young learners can benefit from collaborative learning platforms that facilitate communication and interaction between learners. Platforms like Google Classroom, Edmodo, and Canvas provide learners with a centralised place to access and submit assignments, ask questions, and engage with other learners and teachers. Collaborative learning platforms can help young learners feel more connected and engaged in the learning process, which can ultimately lead to better performance on tests and exams.

In Summary
Preparing for tests and exams doesn’t have to be a stressful or overwhelming experience, particularly for young learners who may be new to the process. By leveraging the power of technology, learners can access a wide range of resources and tools that can make test prep more efficient, effective, and even enjoyable.
From interactive practice tests and learning apps to online tutors, online resources and tools, and collaborative learning platforms, technology offers an array of options that can support learners at every stage of the test prep process. Whether you’re preparing for your first spelling test or a high-stakes entrance exam, technology can help you achieve your goals and unlock your full potential.

How to apply for jobs if you have Dyslexia

How to apply for jobs if you have Dyslexia

written by Susan Shor, posted on Resume io

Dyslexia should not be a barrier to finding a great job and, in fact, it’s not. Start with the tips below to smooth your path to success.

Dyslexia does not have to be an obstacle in your job search, even if it made your school days more challenging. You have probably developed coping mechanisms and found technology to use to your advantage, but that doesn’t necessarily take the worry out of entering new situations.

This blog is designed to give you guidance on

  • Describing dyslexia to people who may not understand it
  • Writing a flawless resume and cover letter with dyslexia
  • To tell or not to tell (or when to tell) a prospective employer
  • Finding resources for adults with dyslexia.

Book Review: Choppy Wow Wow

Book Review: Choppy Wow Wow

written by Ron Italiano

Excerpts taken from website

Choppy Wow Wow is a 30-page picture book written by Ron Italiano, and illustrated by Jessica Rogers. Choppy Wow Wow is a special dog with a special purpose, searching for his forever home. He learns the things that make us different are what make us special. It is playfully illustrated and readers of all ages will enjoy this heartwarming tale of a helper dog and a young boy who form a unique connection to start their life adventure.

Ron wrote this book as the first in a series intended to promote inclusion, enjoyment of reading, and celebrating differences. It is his hope that these books will also help special needs parents navigate some of the parenting challenges that we all experience.

 

13 Holiday Survival Tips For Your Child With Special Needs

13 Holiday Survival Tips For Your Child With Special Needs

written by Emma Sterland, posted on Friendship Circle

While most children live for the holiday season, it can be an extremely stressful time of year for children with autism and other forms of learning disability. The disruption to their routine, unfamiliar sights and smells, the house full of noise and people – it can all prove too much. Holidays are all about the family, but it can be hard keeping everyone happy.

The following tips for surviving the holiday season have been contributed to Scope by parents of children and adults with special needs.  The general consensus seems to be to plan ahead. Whether that’s creating a visual story for your child, preparing them what to expect, or giving relatives a heads-up in advance about your child’s particular needs – preparation is key.

Inclusive Language for Disability: How & Why?

Inclusive Language for Disability: How & Why?

written by Casey Wise, published on Wordfinderx

In a constantly changing world with exterior forces that seem to pull us apart, the concepts of inclusivity and offense are being brought more into the light. It’s more important than ever to be kind, show respect, and treat people how we want to be treated, particularly in the world of differently-abled people. ‘Offense’ is a word that seems to be on the tip of everyone’s tongue these days. What can I say, what can’t I say? In this article, we will talk about the various ways you can change your speech, adapt your views, and sympathize more with those with disabilities. Whether the information we share changes your views or not, we hope you learn something about inclusive language.

People First

The first step towards inclusivity when talking about those with disabilities is treating human beings like human beings. This may seem logical or obvious, but a lot of the speech we use excludes or wrongly highlights differently-abled people. The ‘people-first’ approach to inclusivity is what the UN puts first on its definitive guideline list. Examples of this are:

  • ‘Students with dyslexia,’ rather than ‘Dyslexic students’
  • ‘Children with albinism,’ rather than ‘Albino children’
  • ‘People with intellectual disabilities,’ rather than ‘Intellectually disabled people’

As these examples show, it’s important to put the person, the human being, first instead of the disabilities, conditions, or illnesses they have. The UN also makes a great suggestion in their listing; ‘If in doubt, you should ask the person or group how they choose to identify. Indeed, persons with disabilities are not a homogeneous group, and they may self-identify in various ways.’ This should be the golden rule when talking about differently-abled people; if in doubt, ask the group or person you are talking to.

 

 

What is Dyslexia?

What is Dyslexia?

written by Heidi Borst, published on www.usnews.com

Children who have difficulty sounding out words, struggle to learn letter names and sounds, or become easily frustrated by reading activities may be having more problems than most students when learning to read. Those can be signs of dyslexia, one of the most common learning differences in America.

Dyslexia is a neurologically based learning disability marked by difficulties with decoding and reading comprehension. An estimated 1 in 5 Americans have dyslexia, representing as many as 90% of all people with learning disabilities, according to the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity.

Rebecca Mannis, a learning specialist and founder of Ivy Prep Learning Center in New York, says dyslexia can manifest at different times depending on the specific type of dyslexia, the student’s learning profile and their school and family life.

“Children who have significant difficulty with early language development and who have trouble telling apart sounds, called a phonological deficit, represent the most common subtype of dyslexia,” Mannis wrote in an email. Dyslexia may be identified early in these children, she says, because they have difficulty learning sound-symbol relationships.

“On the other hand, a bright, verbal child who has more difficulty with reading fluency or remembering sight words that can’t be decoded or sounded out, such as the words ‘thought’ or ‘would,’ may be able to compensate in early years,” Mannis says. Cases like that may go undetected until middle school or even high school or college.

Education experts say there are many ways parents can help children with dyslexia, starting with recognizing common signs and taking action.

The Calais Adult Transition Program

The Calais Adult Transition Program

Struggling to stay afloat in college? The Calais Adult Transition Program offers support to individuals with special needs looking to pursue higher education and employment. Calais provides on-site college and career readiness services for young adults ages 18 to 30 with mental health conditions, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, and other special needs.
Services and Support includes:
  • Work-Study Model
  • Tailored to Your Personal Needs and Goals
  • Services on Your Own Schedule
  • Academic and Therapeutic Support
  • Life Planning and Career Counseling
  • Social Opportunities

A Guide to Dental Care for Children with Autism

A Guide to Dental Care for Children with Autism

published on byteme.com

Children with autism are likely to suffer many more oral health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease and dental injury, than children without autism. Many autistic kids have sensory sensitivities that make it difficult to maintain an effective oral hygiene routine. These issues may also make visits to the dentist challenging.

Parents and caregivers can do several things to make oral hygiene and dental visits easier for their autistic kids. Implementing behavioral techniques, using autism-friendly dental products, and seeking out dental professionals with specialized knowledge can all help your child with autism maintain good oral health.

Decision Making Skills for Young Adults

Decision Making Skills for Young Adults

written by Calvin & Tricia Luker, published on parentingspecialneeds.org

When students with disabilities become young adults, they and their parents often ask whether and how decision-making practices should change. After all, the student and family, and the school, medical, vocational and service providers have been using the transition process for several years to help prepare the student for complete community inclusion. Now that the student is nearing, or has attained, the age of majority, how should decision making responsibilities be addressed? This article answers that question.

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"Dr. Liz is the best! Our family was directed to her by our Pediatrician to assist with figuring out severe mood changes, severe anxiety, strange new fears and food aversion that had come onto one of our children literally overnight. After just a couple of visits, she suggested that the issues may actually be rooted in a physical issue and suggested we immediately take our child to be swabbed for strep, because Dr. Liz suspected PANDAS (a pediatric autoimmune disorder brought on by strep). The same Pediatrician that suggested Dr. Liz would not do the swab (they do not believe in PANDAS and we no longer go there) but I took my child to my doctor who did the swab and it was positive for strep. When our child went on antibiotics, within 24 hours all symptoms went away and our child was back :-) Dr. Liz then recommended a PANDAS specialist who helped us and our child is in complete remission and is happy and healthy. We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Liz for her knowledge of all things, even the most remote and unusual and for helping us so much! Thank you!"
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"The various psycho-educational testing Dr. Liz conducted on our son gave us critical clues about where his learning strengths and weaknesses lie so that his needs could be better addressed at home and school. Moreover, because of their warm, kindhearted personalities, both Dr. Liz and her associate, Stephanie, formed an immediate bond with my son. He eagerly looks forward to his weekly therapy sessions. We are so lucky Dr. Liz came into our family's lives when she did! For stressed-out families trying to help their children as best they can, she is a calming voice of reason!"
- Anonymous
"Thank you, Dr. Liz. Although we have told you countless times, it will never feel enough. You have listened when J could barely speak and continued to listen when he was sad, angry and confused. You've challenged him and directed us in our roles as parents. You've helped J face his fears while the list evolved and changed, and yet you've stayed committed to 'the course.' We pray that your children realize that time away from them is spent helping children learn and that vulnerability is a sign of strength and bravery."
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"My son was admitted to an Ivy League school when only 2 years ago, you assessed him and saw his struggles, his Dyslexia. We are grateful that he no longer has to carry that deep feeling of inadequacy or shame that must have kept him so self conscious and from reaching his potential. He has the PERFECT program for him. He has A's in high math and economics. He became a Merit Scholar, a Boys State legislature, the HEAD captain of the football team and help a job ALL while studying and managing his classes and disability. I am PROUD of you, a young doctor, who knows and sees the vulnerability of children and helps them recognize "it's NO big deal" God bless."
- Anonymous

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