Assistive technology training within an educational technology course: Perceptions of preservice special education teachers

Abstract

Abstract Although the importance of assistive technology (AT) has been supported in the literature, preservice special education teachers (PSETs) are still graduating with inadequate AT knowledge and skills. In this study, an educational technology course was modified and the PSETs’ perceptions about their AT knowledge and skills and the course were investigated. Data were collected from 67 PSETs through pre- and post-survey. The findings revealed that their AT knowledge and skills increased remarkably following the course. The PSETs found the course to be valuable as it enabled them to gain AT knowledge and skills, to become aware of the importance of AT in special education, and to provide some real-life experience. They mentioned appreciating the special education focus and active learning features of the course, but listed the heavy course workload, the challenges of the course project, and the intensive course content as weaknesses of the course. They also recommended suggestions to improve the course.