# data[].attributes.body
Switzerland

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway is that there is universal design everywhere I go. Going out and having to find things has been a real reality check because of how fast I realized I was surrounded by it. By this realization, I feel like I'll go through my regular days, but this time thinking about whether this can be accessible to the public or whether it should have been built a different way. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
My advice is to always be open to learning and relearning things because it really can change your mindset over things. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is forever having a open mind and the ability to relearn something. My understanding of disabilities was very one-dimensional. This course allowed me to understand the breath and vastness of the topic. It also opened my eyes the the use and plethora of assistive technologies and how they benefit everyone, and not just people that have disabilities

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
I would advise students to portion their work day by day into a managable format. Also to come in willing to learn.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
More school hopefully a very productive semester

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
That accessibility isn't just a feature, it's a mindset.
Designing for all learners from the start creates better experiences for everyone.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Stay curious and hands-on. Explore the tools, don't be afraid to try new things, and think about your students in every decision you make

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
I'm excited to keep growing as a future special education teacher, start my field experience, and continue finding new ways to support all learners 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
On the back deck at my parents' house in the North Georgia mountains.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway is two fold. I think the first thing being just how much more society has become inclusive to people with disabilities. From passing the ADA act all the way to ordinary every day things that we don't even recognize anymore, the amount of inclusivity that has been accomplished is amazing. On the other hand, I've also seen that there is still a lot of work to do to give people with disabilities the most fair and inclusive environment to thrive in. Lastly, it really opened my eye to how much I didn't know about this topic before starting this class. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
My advice for people taking this class is enjoy it! Take your time read through the material even if you don't plan on making a career over it because it is useful to know and makes you more well rounded as a person.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
I start full time as a financial advisor in Atlanta! 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is how much more aware it has made me on the topic of accessibility. It has sparked curiosity wherever I go on whether a certain place or thing would be considered accessible for all. I've also learned how accessibility is one of those topics that goes unnoticed at many times but has a huge impact on everyone.  

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Advice that I have for future EDIT 5100e students would be to do a little bit of each assignment everyday if possible. The assignments themselves are not bad at all but it is helpful to break them up. Carry headphones as well if you find yourself working on the go, as it's helpful in being intentional with viewing the videos for some of the assignments.  

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
After this semester I plan to start my second year at UGA and continue working at the McPhaul Child Development Center!

# data[].attributes.body
Switzerland

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course was learning about AT and how prevalent it is in my life and everyone else. I was very surprised to find that I use AT everyday and want to continue to find ways to use AT to be more efficient. Learning about how schools and universities use AT to assist students was also very interesting especially at Gallaudet University.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
My advice for future EDIT 5100e students is to take your time and learn the material because of its prevalence in todays progressive world.

# data[].attributes.body
Capetown, South Africa!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is that AT is absolutely necessary for students with disabilities to learn in the best ways they can. Also, As a society we need to better construct both learning environments and physical environemts in consideration to those with disabilities. Lastly, even small things that we may not notice in our surroundings that are for those with disabilities, also benefit everyone else in an equally beneficial way. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Dont wait until the last minute to do assignments! For one of the units I found myself doing this because I had a very busy week at work, and put everything off until the last day. This makes the assignemnts very stressful, so the best advice I can give to future students is to try and do atleast one task or part of a task on any given day, and not to rush through any of the resources because there is some really interesting information in them.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
A very unfortunate 18 hour schedule with very bad times for classes, but its ok.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
I only worked on this at my desk becauase I seriously can not focus anywhere else.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is how often myself and I'm sure every other college student utilize different UDLs and ATs in our daily lives as students. Resources like Google Calendar and speech-to-text have become so ingrained in my life and how I organize my schedule. The only difference is I have the option of using these tools, some people don't have a choice and rely on them to fully participate in life. A specific video we watched about the kid's communicating with their teacher stuck with me the most. Everyone has their own unique challenges, and the different tools we learned about in this class are crucial to some peoples lives.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Dr. Thomas made sure we knew this starting off but do NOT put off your tasks until the last day.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
I'm boring I only worked on this at home

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway is that assistive technology is everywhere, and sometimes the smallest tools can make the biggest difference in helping people learn and participate!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Try not to rush through the readings and videos! They actually make the assignments way easier, and a lot of the concepts start connecting together as the course goes on. Also start the projects a little early because some of them take longer than they first look.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course was the work that people with disabilities have to actively put in in order to be represented. The podcast we watched in week one stuck with me, especially the parts mentioning that the ADA doesn't have any associated funding, it's simply an act of law. It's often people with disabilities who have to work to see that act respected and utilized. I found it very interesting to see all of the ways assistive technology can be used, and I especially enjoyed seeing the students in the week 3 video using speech assistive technology to communicate with their teachers and each other. It reminded me of my own family members, and how often people with disabilities have so much to say, but are limited by their access to this kind of technology. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Look at your assignments early in the week!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
My senior year and a wonderful career in Marketing!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is that assistive technology is much broader than I originally thought. Before this semester, I mainly associated assistive technology with specialized devices for students with disabilities. However, I learned that many tools, strategies, and classroom design choices can improve accessibility and support learning for a wide range of students. I also gained a better understanding of UDL and how creating flexible learning environments can reduce barriers before they become obstacles.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Stay organized and save resources from each assignment because many of them can be useful later in the semester. I also recommend approaching the assignments with an open mind. Some projects may seem simple at first, but they helped me think more critically about accessibility, inclusion, and how students experience learning differently.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
After this semester ends, I will be spending in Fourth of July weekend by the pool in my apartment building in Dallas, TX. I will be here until the second week of August and then I will head back to Athens to start back to school. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
The most unexpected place I worked on this course was in the airport. Balancing coursework with a full-time internship was challenging at times, but I was able to navigate it while growing my time management skills.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is the extent of AT in life. Before taking this course, I did not know what made a specific object 'AT' or not. I assumed it was only a specific few objects. I was incredibly wrong and enjoyed learning about low to high tech AT. It blew my mind that something as simple as a pencil grip used to help students write to something as complex as spell checker were both considered AT. I liked doing the project about AT tools I use in my life because I will now be very conscious of these tools and can explain the role of AT to other people.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
I would tell the students to lean into the content and be ready to learn. I learned so much about assistive technology I never would have imagined. Most of this came from the set assignments, but it helped me to do my own research and explore concepts further. I liked watching the videos provided even if we were not required to watch all of them.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
I am studying abroad in Innsbruck, Austria for five weeks. After that, it will be time to return to Athens.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course was how relevant the content is to our daily lives. I will never look at classrooms the same and will be more aware of how assistive technology tools tremendously improve learning capabilities. I also was surprised by how much assistive tools are used by non-disabled people on a daily basis. Personally, I use pencil grips and timers on a daily basis to help my writing and time management and did not realize they were types of assistive tools. This class definitely opened my eyes to all of the different possible learning disabilities faced by so many students throughout their educational career. I am impressed with how AI and new innovations have changed so many students lives for the better.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
My advice would be to designate time to this class because rushing the work defeats the purpose of learning about assistive tech.  I would encourage people to do further research into the tools that interest them and use it as a way to dive deeper into topics we would probably have no idea about. I think this course is a great way to gain a broader perspective on education and all the different ways to enhance a student's experience. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
Finish my internship July 31st and go to Charleston for the 4th. Thank you for a great course!!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway will be finding examples of the Universal Design for Learning in my classrooms and Assistive Technology in my day to day life. One of my favorite parts of taking college courses is being able to apply what I've learned outside of the classroom. Throughout this course I've not only already found myself becoming more aware of various examples of AT I see, but also thought of ways to improve accessibility. I will be teaching students next year as a GA, so they will certainly benefit from my newfound appreciation for the UDL.  I also especially enjoyed learning about the history of the ADA and the activism that led to such widespread adoption of AT. I really admire all the people advocating for themselves and others.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
My advice would be to listen to and watch all the materials provided, regardless of whether there is an assignment linked to them. Most are very short, and all were interesting. I'd also read all of the instructions before jumping into the tasks. That way,  you can take notes with your assigned writing in mind. You will finish your writing much quicker that way. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
After this summer session, I will return to UGA as a MAcc student

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway for this course was learning that assistive technology is not limited to advanced  or specialized devices, but is is found in many everyday tools that makes learning more accessible for everyone. Understanding the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has changed the way I think about accessibility and inclusion in all settings, not just education. It has also encouraged me to reflect on my own classes and students habits. This course has given me a greater appreciation for how changes in a learning environment can create opportunities for success in all learners. EDIT 5100E is one of the most interesting classes I have taken, and I am eager to use all of the knowledge from this course in the future. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
I suggest reading through all of the tasks before starting any of them. I found helpful to review everything first because it allowed me to take more organized notes on the videos, articles, and documents that were connected to more than one task. Doing additional research on topics that interested me helped deepen my understanding and made the course even more engaging! 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
After this semester, I am taking another short-session online class and going to Scotland in late July for a family vacation. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
I worked on my assignments at work! Many of my coworkers asked me what I was doing. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
The most significant insight I gained this semester was that assistive technology is not only about devices and other equipment but also about access, independence, communication, and inclusion. Prior to taking this class, I used to think that assistive technology referred exclusively to the devices or equipment, yet I now realize that AT can mean any tool that helps an individual participate better, be it some kind of AAC devices or screen readers, visual schedules, ramps, adapted books, or something else. Another thing is that AT became associated in my mind with the notion of UDL, since both focused on removing barriers to learning and providing students with the means to access information, engage with it, and express their knowledge in various ways. 

Among the things that caught my attention was communication in general, and, specifically, after watching Elizabeth Bonker’s valedictorian speech, where her use of AAC proved that presuming someone’s competence is crucial. Moreover, this speech convinced me that accessibility must be taken into account when building a classroom, website, or designing any activity.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
My best advice is to prioritize creating a schedule and a weekly time commitment for the class. I'd also advise to really delve into the material because there are extremely interesting lessons, readings, videos, etc.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
I'm leaving to go on vacation to my cabin tomorrow. I'm excited to spend a half a week with my family after not really seeing them at all this summer. Then, I will finish my internship the remainder of the summer and begin my senior year!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from the course was all the new ways that technology and devices have been able to help change the lives of people with disabilities and that struggle to learn. With AI and technology it’s often demonized but seeing the positive impacts it’s having on people's lives was really cool.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
My advice would be to come to the class with an open mind and ready to learn. This class was very different from any class that I’d taken but ended up really enjoying it and learned a lot. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
Going to the lake for the 4th then finishing up my internship in july, and thankfully going back to Athens soon. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
The most unexpected place I worked on this class was publishing my site on my lunch break today after grades dropped and I realized I forgot to hit publish, so add that to advice for future students too.

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stressed person checking their phone on their lunch breal

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course was definitely how out of touch I was with accessibility, how prevalent a good UDL framed class, and well educated teacher, especially as a young kid is to support the different learning curves every student may have. I always thought that being a teacher would have been a pretty easy job but after taking this class i've realized the significant impact a good teacher can have and how truly specialized the knowledge has to be to have that sort of impact. I am leaving this class appreciating every teacher i've ever had a lot more. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Get interested in the material, and be passionate about being exposed to new perspectives and information that is easy to live in a bubble ignoring it and not recognizing what has been going on behind the scenes to get where we are today with public spaces and education. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
After this semester (or summer) I will be going into my final year of college. Looking forward to cherishing it and also being done with school forever! Hopefully I can land a good job in my dream career's industry which is developing new construction. Thank you Mrs. Gretchen for an actual enjoyable and memorable summer class, I hope you have a good rest of your summer. It was nice to meet you all!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
At work... Getting paid to do school ha!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is that there are so many different types of assistive technology, and every tool can be used for someone's individual needs. I thought assistive technology was limited to tools like AAC devices or expensive, high-tech devices that are difficult to find or access, but I now know that assistive technology is everywhere. I learned more about how I can use assistive technology for my learning, and how I can implement it in my future career. In the future, I hope to learn what I have learned about assistive technology as well as the Universal Design for Learning to create a positive and healthy environment for those around me. Resources like the AT Lending Library and the websites I explored are great hubs of information and tools that I can return be to and use to continue learning about assistive technology and its importance in both education and recreation, both for individuals with disabilities and individuals who are non-disabled. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
I would advise future EDIT5100e students to make outlines and plans for their writings. All of the resources you will use in the course are very informative and applicable to life outside of this course, and it can be helpful to look at the prompts before beginning an assignment and organizing all you have learned before you start writing. Also, the amount of effort you put in to exploring resources and applying them to your life will determine how much you learn and how beneficial this course is for you, so I recommend taking your time with the material and not rushing things just to get them done.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
Begin in my CMSD cohort, get involved more at UGA, and make the most of my remaining years as an undergrad student!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is that assistive technology is a lot more than just helping people with disabilities. Before taking this class, I mostly thought of AT as things like wheelchairs or hearing aids, but now I realize it can be anything that helps someone learn, communicate, or participate more successfully. I also learned how Universal Design for Learning can help all students by giving them different ways to learn and show what they know. Going through the different units made me pay a lot more attention to things like classroom setup, communication tools, and study resources that can make learning easier. The biggest thing I learned is that assistive technology can help everyone, not just people with disabilities. It’s also about making sure everyone has the same opportunity to learn, participate, and be successful, no matter what their needs are.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
My biggest piece of advice would be to not wait until the last minute to do everything. Some of the assignments look like they’re going to take forever, but once you get started they’re honestly not as bad as they seem. I’d also say to keep an open mind because this class teaches you a lot of things you probably haven’t thought about before. By the end of the semester, I definitely looked at assistive technology, accessibility, and even classrooms a lot differently than I did at the beginning of the course.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
After this semester, I’m getting ready for my last year of college at UGA. My main goal is to keep working toward graduating with my Sports Management degree and stay focused on finishing strong so I can propose to my long time girlfriend. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
Probably around 4:00 in the morning after getting off a night shift. It definitely wasn’t the ideal time to work on assignments, but sometimes that’s just when I had to get them done.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is that AT is helpful to all people, not just those with a disability. Before taking this course, I was under the impression it was only used by people with a disability, but I quickly realized that was not the case. I learned that AT is found in my everyday life and I myself use it almost every day. Rather it is automatic doors going into a store or curb cuts when pushing a grocery cart, it is all around us. I really enjoyed taking this course and am thankful for the information I am leaving with.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
My advice for future students taking this course is do not wait to start your tasks and do one every day if possible. It will make the workload feel a lot less stressful.  

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.VCMFZI58
Completing my junior and senior years of college!

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
AT is way more than physical devices. Most of it is software and tools that already exist, people just don't know about them or how to use them. The idea that good design for students with the most barriers ends up helping everyone is something I feel I can actually carry forward

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
I think its learning to be as open-minded as one can possibly be. Part of that comes down to the willingness to absorb information. Also don't wait until the last minute, the tasks are short but there are a lot of them.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
While commuting back from work at 2 AM in the New York City MTA

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
My biggest takeaway from this course is to have a broader perspective when thinking about the classroom. Growing up with two parents who are teachers, I have never thought about how many different kids you have to consider when creating plans for the day. I liked how this class helped me open my eyes a little bit and think about others more.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Create a list of all the assignments you have to complete! This class doesn't take place on ELC, so it can be hard to track which assignments you have completed or not. I found making a list of all the assignments on Google Sheets and then checking them off when they were completed was very helpful.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.vtTa1yxo
In the car on the way to Nashville (currently)

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
When I entered this course, I had a limited view of what assistive technology was, as I saw it simply as specialty technology for individuals with certain disabilities. By the time the semester was through, I learned that assistive technology is a much broader term and can impact almost anyone in their everyday activities. Assistive technology can range from a voice-activated calculator to captioned videos to a lever door handle. What I learned most about throughout the entire course was just how much UDL and AT overlap each other. A well-placed universal design means certain special accommodations won’t be necessary, as access will be there already. If accommodations must be made, the best way is to do it before any problems arise.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Don't skip the videos and podcasts even when no quiz is linked to it. The first-person narratives, for instance the one on ADA podcast, make the content more easily comprehensible than just the readings. In addition, maintain an ongoing list of the assistive technology tools and models that you learn including SETT, AC language group, and UDL principles because you would be using the same information repeatedly in other tasks as well.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
Assistive technology has a much broader impact than I originally thought. It’s not only helpful for accessibility needs, but also enhances learning, productivity, and communication for a wide range of people in different environments.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Stay ahead on assignments instead of letting them pile up. I found it really helpful to block out a couple days early in the week to get work done, especially when I knew my schedule would get busy later on. Planning ahead makes the class a lot easier to manage.

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.By3h23HI
Assistive Technology can benefit everyone, not just people with disabilities. 

# data[].attributes.custom_properties.JOLWSBlM
Stay on top of your work! I preferred to designate a few days at the beginning of the week to finish my work when I knew my week would be busy. 