Hi Saharudin,

Hope everything is going well. For my students with visual impairment I use Seeing AI app, it is an artificial intelligence application developed by Microsoft for iOS. With Seeing AI we use the device camera to identify people, objects, money, colors and then the app audibly describes those objects or characteristics for my students.

Also I use Reading Progress in Microsoft TEAMS, It is a free tool that helps my students practice their reading fluency and reading comprehension. Students read a passage out loud while recording video and audio, then send their recordings to me as their teacher. I love it!

We have a new technology called FarmBot, thanks to a Federal Grant. FarmBot is an open-source precision agriculture farming robot consisting of a cartesian coordinate farming machine, software and documentation including a farming data repository. The project aims my students to create an open and accessible technology aiding everyone to grow food and to grow food for everyone. It is amazing.

@Ekaterina-P Artificial Intelligence has indeed brought significant innovations to education, enhancing both teaching and learning experiences. However, as you pointed out, it also poses challenges regarding academic integrity. At our school, we have implemented several strategies to address the misuse of AI and uphold academic standards.

Firstly, we revised our academic integrity policy to explicitly include guidelines on the use of AI. Students are educated about what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate use of AI tools. We emphasize that while AI can be a valuable aid for research and learning, it should not be used to complete assignments or write papers on behalf of students.

To detect AI-generated content, we use advanced plagiarism detection software that includes AI content recognition features. Tools like Turnitin have been updated to flag AI-generated text, helping us identify work that may not be original. Additionally, we encourage teachers to incorporate unique and personalized assignments that are less susceptible to AI misuse and require critical thinking and personal reflection.

To persuade students to avoid misusing AI, we focus on education and ethics. We conduct workshops and seminars that highlight the importance of academic honesty and the long-term benefits of genuine learning. We also provide support for students struggling with their coursework, offering tutoring and resources to help them succeed without resorting to unethical practices.

By combining clear policies, advanced detection tools, and a strong emphasis on ethics and support, we strive to create an environment where students can harness the benefits of AI responsibly and maintain the integrity of their academic work.

Hello everyone,

I would like to talk about something that affect our students in Puerto Rico almost every school year.

Natural disasters are becoming increasingly frequent and severe due to climate change, affecting millions of our students worldwide. Schools are not only disrupted by these events, but they also play a crucial role in educating future generations about climate resilience and adaptation. This forum is dedicated to discussing the multifaceted impact of natural disasters on education and the importance of integrating climate change education into our curricula.

The impact on education in Puerto Rico due to Hurricane Maria in 2017, the earthquakes of 2020, and the COVID-19 pandemic has been profound. Hurricane Maria devastated school infrastructure, leaving many students without access to adequate schools and essential educational resources for months. The recovery was slow, and just as schools were beginning to recover, the 2020 earthquakes caused additional damage, forcing numerous educational institutions to close and leaving students in constant uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic added another layer of challenge with the sudden transition to online education, exposing and exacerbating the existing digital divide. Many students lacked access to technological devices and internet connectivity, making distance learning difficult. These consecutive events not only interrupted formal education but also affected the emotional and psychological well-being of students and teachers, highlighting the need for a more resilient and adaptive educational system in the face of natural disasters and global crises.

Every school year I create a climate change project attach to mental health activities to work both. Sensory Technologies are very important for my students to recognize and manage emotions. Apps like Emotions Manager and DailyBean are very helpful.

Here are a couple of questions to think about and I would like to know your answer:

1. What are the long-term psychological effects of experiencing a natural disaster on students?
2. How can schools support the mental health of students and staff in the aftermath of such events?

@Ana_moderator

Absolutely, I use Virtual Reality (VR) with my students, particularly those with autism, to enhance their community access skills. VR offers a controlled and immersive environment where students can practice navigating various real-world scenarios, such as crossing the street, shopping in a grocery store, or using public transportation.

This technology allows them to experience and practice these situations repeatedly without the unpredictability and sensory overload that can occur in real-life settings. By using VR, my students can build confidence and develop essential life skills at their own pace, which significantly helps them when they transition to real-world experiences.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Ana_moderator

Hi Ana,
Hope everything is going well.

Three years ago, I started an initiative in Puerto Rico called The Keep Growing Project and it looks like a Forest School concept. Students from different parts of Puerto Rico came to the San Patricio Forest to take a workshop with their parents in Earth Day. It is something beautiful to see, they are completely engaged and motivated. As you mentioned creativity and collaboration are part of this approach and came so natural as the environment they are immerse.

Try it, it will be an amazing memory for your students and for you. If you find a tree house better- Best of luck.

@NAJMAc79e2494d9

I’m from a rural area in Puerto Rico island and I see myself and my students in every of those challenges. But, I didn’t stay there expecting and waiting for our government, I start to look for grants, partnerships, collaborations, international teachers and other ways to give my students what they deserve, quality education.

That’s why we are here, we are part of a teacher army that change our students reality. There is no better message than seeing them achieving everything, every day ️

@EKATE97ee9b6685

Hi,
Hope everything is going well.

I use Seeing AI app for my students with visual impairments and autism in the SPED program. With Seeing AI my students identify money to purchase items, colors to wear clothes, bar codes to know about the product in a supermarket, and so on. Also, I use reading progress in TEAMS app, which use AI to identify the words that my students with communication disparities can't pronounce well.

Not everything is AI to generate information, try to find apps or solutions that apply AI to other tasks.

Best of luck. Hugs from Puerto Rico.
Mr. Bryan

This new school year I will have a reading corner under a tree right besides my classroom. I’m very happy to know about this approach in this forum. Just love it! Let’s apply what we are learning in our classrooms, it will be fun.

@Bousl2336873cb4

Since the pandemic I create a community project called bCalm Box to give kids Calm Boxes to overcome emotional disparities. We have in Puerto Rico 78 municipalities, and I finally reach 25 of them to give 100 of boxes on each spot. Mental health is very importante, our kids in the island first suffer a huracane that interrupt school during a school year, the catastrophic earthquakes and then the pandemic.

As teacher we have to know that our classroom doesn't have just walls, the world is our classroom.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Engr-Zeeshan

Hi @Engr-Zeeshan
Hope everything is going well.

As a SPED teacher for students with autism, technology has significantly transformed my teaching methods, enabling me to create more personalized and engaging learning experiences. Interactive tools like tablets and educational apps cater to the unique needs of my students, offering visual and auditory supports that enhance their understanding and communication.

One of the most effective tech tools I've used is the Proloquo2Go app, which aids non-verbal students in expressing themselves. However, integrating technology comes with challenges, such as ensuring all students have access to devices and training staff to use them effectively. I addressed these challenges by advocating for funding to acquire necessary technology and participating in professional development to stay updated on best practices. Balancing technology with traditional methods involves integrating hands-on activities and sensory breaks to ensure a well-rounded learning experience that meets the diverse needs of my students.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Ana_moderator

This is my Living Skills Classroom for students with Autism-

The best place to learn and always celebrating learning. I always have balloons, scented candles, and lots of manipulatives and colorful materials for my students. All you see here it was bought thanks to donations and Grants. I never give up on circumstances, I believe that as teachers we can achieve everything if we collaborate to get the best scenario for learning. I don't have a Desk; I think sometimes becomes a barrier between us and our students. Technology is important for me as a competitive advantage for my students. Memories are forever and I'm there to design the best one for them.

Never give up colleagues, quality education is on our hands.

@Tabassumlaghari
Hi @Tabassumlaghari
Hope everything is ok.

In my SPED classroom, fostering responsibility and engagement begins with creating a learning environment where every student feels valued and understood. I set clear, achievable expectations from the start, making sure all students understand what is required of them and why it matters.

By linking lessons to real-world applications, I aim to make learning relevant, particularly for those who may struggle with motivation and learning disability. I also encourage self-assessment and reflection, helping students take ownership of their progress. Differentiated instruction is key in addressing diverse learning needs, and I consistently promote a growth mindset, framing challenges as opportunities for development.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Adel-8d693e36c4

Hi @Adel-8d693e36c4
Hope everything is going well.

I always start with worksheets with visuals to know what they do in summer break. Visuals are important for my students, some of them are nonverbal. Also, I give them a routine worksheet to promote their participation every morning since they are back to school. Routines are very important to calm their anxiety.

@Ana_moderator

Hi @Ana_moderator
Hope everything is going well.

As a Special Education teacher, it's essential to create a classroom environment where every student's voice is respected and valued. To address the personality clash between Lily and Max, I would first have a private conversation with each student to understand their perspectives and feelings. For Lily, I would emphasize the importance of collaborative leadership, encouraging her to recognize and include the strengths of her peers. For Max, I would work on building his confidence in group settings by assigning roles or tasks that align with his interests and skills, ensuring he feels a sense of ownership in group work. Additionally, I would implement structured group activities with clear expectations, where each student's contribution is acknowledged. By facilitating open communication and teaching empathy, I aim to create a balanced dynamic that allows both Lily and Max to thrive in a supportive learning environment.

This school year I have 10 students with autism and all of them has different personalities and deal with situations differently. It is a challenge, but we are there to support them in the best way.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Uzma-qamar

Picture of three of my intelectual disability classroom in 2019

Hi @Uzma-qamar
Hope everything is going well.

Encouraging students with special needs to actively engage with the material through thinking, discussions, creating, and problem-solving truly deepens their understanding and retention of knowledge. When students with disability are actively involved in their learning, they’re more likely to develop practical skills and gain the confidence to tackle complex questions.

The idea of having students explain their ideas in their own words, whether through writing or discussion, is so powerful and something that I promote. It not only helps solidify their understanding but also encourages them to think critically and creatively. Plus, it fosters a classroom environment where students feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and learning from one another.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Noor-ul-Sabah

Hi @Noor-ul-Sabah
Hope everything is going well for you.

As a SPED Teacher equity is my concern. While AI has the potential to enhance learning, it could also exacerbate inequalities if not all students have equal access to the technology. Schools must ensure that AI tools are accessible to all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background, and that teachers are trained to use these tools in ways that benefit every student.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@FarhanMehboob

Hi @FarhanMehboob
Hope everything is going well.

Your story is such a powerful reminder of the impact that students can have on a teacher's day. It's incredible how their positivity and enthusiasm can instantly lift your spirits, even after a rough morning. I think that when students bring that kind of energy into the classroom, it creates a ripple effect transforming not just our mood, but also the entire learning environment.

Positive energy from students can serve as a reminder of the bigger picture, helping us reconnect with the passion for teaching, even when the day starts off on the wrong foot. It’s almost like a boost of motivation that keeps us going and reminds us why we chose this profession in the first place.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Shagufta said in How to educate Autism child? Behavior strategies for students with autism.:

Ignore the challenging behavior: Do your best to keep the challenging behavior from serving as his way of communicating or winning. This is hard to do, but in the long run it is effective. Do not allow his screams to get him out of brushing his teeth, or his biting to get him the lollipop that he wants. Behaviors may get worse before you start to see them get better. Stay the course! And make sure all family and team members are consistent in this approach and that you pair this with other positive strategies.

Hi @Shagufta
Hope everything is going well.

As an Autism Specialist for the last 12 years, it is important to clarify this is just one of multiple strategies and all depends of students' behavior. It is not for all students with autism. It is for us one of the last options.

It is called "The extinction strategy" which is a technique used in behavior modification to reduce or eliminate an undesired behavior. This strategy is based on the principle that if a behavior no longer produces the consequences that maintained it, it will eventually decrease and stop occurring.

How does extinction work?
The first step is to clearly identify the behavior you want to reduce or eliminate.

Once the behavior has been identified, the reward or reinforcer that was maintaining it is removed. For example, if a child complains and receives attention each time, the reinforcer is the attention. Extinction would involve not responding to the complaining behavior so that the child learns this behavior no longer provides the desired attention.

It is common for the undesired behavior to initially increase. This is known as an "extinction burst." The individual may try more intensely or frequently to obtain the reward before realizing it no longer works.

If the consistent approach is maintained, the undesired behavior will begin to decrease as the individual realizes they no longer obtain the desired result.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Shaikhkanwal0

Hi @Shaikhkanwal0
Hope everything is going well.

• Technology has transformed my teaching experience by allowing me to incorporate a variety of digital tools that engage my students with special needs in ways traditional methods couldn't. It has also made it easier to differentiate instruction and track student progress.

• The most significant benefits of personalized learning include increased student engagement and the ability to meet each student's unique needs. The challenges often revolve around the resources required to implement personalized learning effectively, including time, training, and technology.

• Addressing the digital divide requires a multi-faceted approach, including providing affordable devices and internet access, offering digital literacy training, and ensuring that educational content is accessible to all my learners.

• As educators we can integrate technology effectively by blending it with traditional methods, using it as a tool to enhance rather than replace our teaching. Continuous professional development and a focus on building strong teacher-student relationships are also crucial for me.

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Uzaif-Talpur

Hi @Uzaif-Talpur
Hope everything is going well.

Thank you for sharing your experience and insights. It's so refreshing to read about how you're integrating modern technology like the PhET simulator into your teaching. You're absolutely right, traditional methods alone can sometimes fall short in sparking that curiosity and excitement in students. By using tools like simulators, VR, and 3D graphics, you're not only making learning more engaging but also more accessible, especially when live experiments aren't possible.

I was looking for Phet to know more and looks very nice and visual for visual learners... in such a difficult topic. Thank you @Uzaif-Talpur

Best,
Mr. Bryan