Apple is highlighting a growing number of apps catering to individuals with special needs with a featured special education section in its App Store.
The section titled “Special Education” launched late last week and includes 72 applications for the iPhone and 13 applications for the iPad in 10 categories ranging from communication to emotional development and life skills, according to Trudy Muller, an Apple spokeswoman.
The special education category is currently showcased as one of four editorial features in the App Store.
Apps, which can be used on Apple’s iPhone, iPad or iPod devices, have become increasingly popular in the special needs community in recent years, serving as everything from assistive technology devices to organizational tools and teaching aids.
Sounds great…. but I tried to find that section and couldn’t. It would be nice, though, if they named it something other than “special education.” My son is an adult and in theory could benefit from some of the apps describe in this article. I say in theory because I can’t find them on the site so I have little information to go on.
My son is using an iPod for communication with the Proloquo2go application.He will also be getting an app called iPrompts. to help with sequence of skills. The first is not an apple product but is compatable and relatively cheap($190.00 aprox.) It is customizable for your son’s needs. Check it out on the web. The second is an apple product look in search field for it.
Hope this helps.
This I am very interested in, I believe the ways ways we can encourage communication the better. I shall be researching this more
I looked for this by following the link, but were do you get info? I am an adult with A.D.D> and don’t really know what I need nor what exactly I’m looking for. Help!
Please help me fine computer games or programs for the computer. It would be best if they not look childish. I have found one game which works (Wheel of Fortune). It would make Mary so happy to use a computer more. She does Puzzle Zone on line and she enjoys it but I am searching for more she can do. I am looking for a basic cookbook and anything else I can find. The things that I am looking for are CD not acutual online access. Thanks in advance for any ideas which could enrich Mary’s life.
Shelley
I am a professional working with individuals with disabilities. I would truly be grateful if we could, somehow, generate a list of resources that could be useful.. Any resources for use on the iPad2 would be very valuable, especially as technology seems to catch the eye of such individuals. Thank you in advance!
Wonderful idea, but the name “Special Education” really is horrible.
Other companies should find a place in their work force for disable adults who can be gainfully employeed. This population has been led to possible Unemployment and disability benefits before they have ever been employeed. It should be a mandate to find such jobs and match these persons to jobs as an active commitment to them.
Hurrah APPLE
I wish there were an app that taught communication skills while the kids were playing a game like their peers play, like “Ganster Rio”. I can dream.
Very good article, now how about Apple “hiring” some of those persons buying those apps, who are looking for work?? No one seems to want to touch anything to do with “employment and the differently-abled” too much any more, one main reason why unemployment is so high amongst this group???
I was not able to find the Special Education section on my iphone. Can anyone help?
Nice article
For those of you who are unable to find the Apps – Click on the “special education” link listed in the article.