Did you know that 1 in 6 children ages 3-17 will be diagnosed with a learning disability? Teachers and administrators are constantly working and searching for the best ways to help all students learn, particularly those who do not learn well using traditional teaching methods.
When I was in the classroom, teachers and administrators were learning about best practices and experimental methods for helping kids learn, and now there is a new classroom assistant. His name is Milo, and he is a 2-foot-tall robot made by RoboKind in Dallas, TX.
Who knew that a robotic teacher would be better than a real person for some kids with learning challenges ? Yet, that is what seems to be the case. In studies done, students were paying attention to the robot 87.5% of the time during interactions, and only paying attention 2.5% of the time with a therapist.
Who benefits from a robot teacher names Milo? Researchers say that children with communication delays, autism, intellectual disabilities, emothional disabilities, and those with other learning challenges do well with the robot. For some who have problems with human interactions, Milo is the best teacher.
A little boy named Mason, who has Downs Syndrome, was nonverbal just 5 years ago. Now, thanks to Milo, he speaks full sentences and shows his emotions. I think this invention is truly remarkable, and I am happy to share the news about a robot as a teaching tool.
Please click on the link below to see a news story from WPXI on Milo and the children he is helping to learn.
Visit Dede's web page for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER. Many colleges have made the book required reading. Signed copies are available www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics.
I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books. Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self. However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37
Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book. I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading. Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com The website www.gradygetsglasses.com now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!
Connect with Dede!
Twitter @dederittman
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