Access Tomorrow
Access Tomorrow is a project that employs an innovative model in which open source assistive technologies (AT) are being modified to execute and run off of portable SmartDrives. The portable SmartDrives are integrated into a fully-accessible online learning environment which provides students with disabilities access to a self-directed on-line transition preparation course. This course uses the personally relevant context of transitioning from high school to college/employment, with emphasis on online exploration of student’s strengths, needs, skills, and career interests. In addition the course offers opportunities for students to learn basic Information Technology (IT) skills that are integrated into Language Arts academic standards. The above process is being used to improve the academic and transition outcomes of high school students with disabilities.
As technology continues to change the skills needed to become successful from both an education and employment standpoint, schools are being challenged to promote technology-supported learning, integrate technology-based assessments, and ensure that both teachers and students are literate in information technologies (IT). Despite the emphasis of higher academic standards, many youth with disabilities are still leaving school without the academic and employment skills needed to participate fully in employment and postsecondary education. To address this gap, mentoring programs have been established and appear to have significant positive outcomes for students, such as reductions in school absences, higher college participation rates, and better in-school behavior. More research is needed to examine the relationship between mentoring and academic achievement, youth employment, and postsecondary education.
In response to these needs, the Nisonger Center at Ohio State University and the IDEAL Group, together with national experts, parents, students and educators, developed a three-tiered model called Access Tomorrow which emphasizes three components needed for improved academic achievement and seamless transition to college/employment for students with disabilities:
- E-Mentoring Student Transition Course
- Mentoring Guide
- Open Source AT SmartDrives integrated with a fully-accessible online learning system
For more information, visit the Access Tomorrow Home Page.
