How Technology Levels the Playing Field
by Mark Coppin (excerpt)
of the driving forces in my life and something that I am very passionate about is accessibility. To me, it means more than accessibility, it is
sing abilities. It is finding the tools that allow diverse learners the opportunity to access their education, their world, and their dreams. Today's
ologies are opening up a world of possibilities for students with diverse learning needs. Technology is leveling the playing field and providing
nts with opportunities that were difficult or impossible to provide only a few years ago. It allows us to look beyond the disability and focus on the
I am honored to be selected as a White House Champion of Change as it will provide me with a broader platform to spread the word on how
ing equal opportunities for all learners can transform lives.
ave been the Director of Assistive Technology at the Anne Carlsen Center for over 25 years. The Anne Carlsen Center is a private non-profit cente
ed in North Dakota that serves persons of all abilities throughout the state and region. I started out as a teacher at the center, and early on I realize
ower of assistive technologies in providing opportunities for students with special needs. Throughout my professional career, I have looked for
us ways to provide opportunities for people to realize their full potential. I helped host a summer technology camp during which kids from across the
who wouldn't tvoically be accepted into a traditional camo are provided with access to all types of assistive technologies. Once they are able to
Dok at the dictionary entry for the word platform. Based on the context, which definition is correct for paragraph 1?
[1]...I am honored to be selected as a White House Champion of Change as it will provide me with a broader platform to spread the word on
how providing equal opportunities for all learners can transform lives.
Platform noun
Reserved.
1. a raised surface for giving speeches
2. a stated policy by a political party
3. a type of computer operating system
4. a chance to share one's beliefs and ideas
