ment between people. Here are a few examples of how I've used apps and an iPad for engagement with Jessica and other people I've supported through my years of service in the disability community.
These are just a few of the millions of apps our there. While our focus in this article is on Apple devices, there are similar apps that are available on Android devices. A good place to search for apps that may benefit people with disabilities is Bridging Apps (bridgingapps.org), a program of the Easter Seals of Greater Houston, that provides an app database with extensive reviews. They have a
great message on their web page that really connects with me. "We believe that it is more important to focus on the person who will be using the technology, than the device itself."
It's encouraging that in the spirit of universal design, many useful apps have been created that are more accessible than ever before. They may not have been originally targeted for the special needs community, but they nonetheless hold great potential for everyone. When searching for apps, don't just confine your search to "special needs;" there's a world of possibilities to discover in the vast offerings of apps.
iPads are wonderful tools for discovery. Use these devices or others to facilitate discussion and pursue lifelong learning
opportunities, in a person-to-person or group situation. All of us are learning each day; no matter our disabilities; it's a lifetime activity. Let's use these digital tools and our imaginations to enhance the learning process. •
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jordan Jankus is the proud father of Jessica, his adult daughter who was born with multiple developmental delays. In addition to his role as a parent, Jordan has worked in human support services for twenty-three years as a case manager, employment specialist, self-advocacy trainer and assistive technology specialist. You can read more of Jordan Jankus' writings on the world of disabilities, parenting, lifelong learning, and technology at his Substack blog, "Plastic Learning" plastlearn.substack.com
JIGSAW BUG: HD PUZZLE GAME
Digital Strawberry | Free with in-app purchases
apps.apple.com/us/app/jigsaw-bug-hd-puzzle-game/id804982722
Puzzles apps are fun, but most can be overwhelming in their complexity. This app comes with thirty-six free puzzles (additional puzzle sets can be purchased) that have interesting pictures with vibrant colors. The magic of the app is that you can pick the complexity of the puzzle, choosing from four pieces to three hundred pieces, then opt to have a "ghost" outline of the picture on the screen to help with the placement of the pieces. The app features thousands of high-resolution jigsaw puzzles, based on beautiful images from professional photographers. As the puzzle is being completed, there are a variety of topics to discuss!
Why did you pick that puzzle? What do you see in the picture puzzle? Which is the left and right of the screen? Would you like to reduce the number of pieces to make it easier? Using the slider control, can you move it to "6" pieces? What tricks have you learned to complete a puzzle?
GOOGLE EARTH
Google, Inc | Free
Not everyone gets to travel the world in person, but this app gives everyone a chance to explore a digital version of the world. You can type in any location, or a specific site of interest, like the White House. The globe turns and you're taken to that location. You're provided with pictures of the location, a brief description, and links to Wikipedia information. Your exploration can be captured in a file that can be stored on your free Google Drive, in case you want to revisit your trip. In many places, you can get a street view of the location. For example, you could take a stroll in front of the White House! So a conversation could start with…. Where did your ancestors come from? Italy? Have you ever been there? Well, let's take trip! Let's type I-T-A-L-Y in the search box. There it is! Do you know there's a city in Italy where the buildings are surrounded by water? Let's look for the city Venice. How would get around a water city if you couldn't take a bus or car?
