Unified Robotics Program Promotes Inclusivity

 Schools are making robotics more inclusive by creating teams that integrate neurotypical and neurodiverse students who will work together to foster a new mindset of abilities versus disabilities. Read More >

PlayStation Developing Accessible Controller

 One of the biggest names in video gaming is working to make its offering more accessible to people with disabilities. Read More >

With New Technology, L'Oréal Looks To Make Makeup More Accessible

 A major beauty brand is debuting a device aimed at ensuring that individuals with disabilities can apply makeup all by themselves. Read More >

How Robots are Helping Children with Autism

 With endless patience and the ability to model socialization, robots specially designed to work with kids with autism are increasingly entering schools, homes and hospitals. Read More >

FDA Approves Device To Help Identify Autism Earlier

 

Federal regulators authorized a new device aimed at helping doctors decide whether or not children as young as 16 months have autism. Read More >

Microsoft Unveils New Accessories For People With Disabilities

 Microsoft is introducing a collection of adaptive devices aimed at making it easier for people with disabilities to use computers. Read More >

Apple's iPad Gets Assistive Technology Boost

 Through a partnership with a venerable name in the world of assistive technology, people with disabilities can now control Apple's iPad using nothing more than their eyes. Read More >

Google Improving Smartphone Accessibility

 Google is offering up new ways for people with various disabilities to more easily use their smartphones. Read More >

Google Launches Program To Hire More People With Autism

 

Google is teaming up with Stanford University in an effort to make its workforce more neurodiverse. Read More >

Microsoft Takes Aim At The 'Disability Divide'

 Technology-giant Microsoft is promising big steps in the coming years to make its products and workplace even more accessible and inclusive to people with disabilities. Read More >

Apple Launching New Accessibility Features For Those With Disabilities

 Apple is set to roll out a host of updates to make its devices even more user-friendly for people with disabilities. Read More >

Virtual Special Olympics Brings Smiles To Students' Faces

 

While ensuring COVID-safe practices, a team of educators worked together to give special education students the opportunity to participate virtually. Read More >

A Video Game Makes Math And English Classes A Full-Body Experience

 An online platform created to help kids in special ed combines physical activity with a virtual world featuring bright colors and animated characters to engage even the shyest students. Read More >

Zoom Commits To Improving Accessibility

 Zoom says it is enhancing its service in order to be more accessible to users with disabilities. Read More >

Teams To Examine Self-Driving Cars For Individuals With Special Needs

 In an effort to improve mobility for people with disabilities, the U.S. Department of Transportation is giving 10 teams funding to make autonomous vehicles more practical for this population. Read More >

Google Improves Tool To Help People Who Are Nonverbal

 Google is introducing new technology designed to help people who are nonverbal communicate with those around them while also making strides toward more inclusion at the company. Read More >

3 steps to a more cybersecure remote learning space

 Teachers, students and parents in remote learning environments have plenty to juggle -- including cybersecurity. Ryan Cloutier of SecurityStudio walks through three steps everyone can take to create a more cybersecure learning environment.

Full Story: SmartBrief/Education

N.M. alleges Google program spies on students

New Mexico alleges in a lawsuit filed Thursday that Google's educational services package gathers personal data about students and their families. The state says it is focused on student safety, while Google says its G Suite for Education program gives school districts and families control and does not gather data for use in targeting ads.

Full Story: The New York Times (tiered subscription model) (2/20),  The Associated Press 

Opinion: 5 edtech investment trends to watch

Education technology has received sizable investments, but stakeholders are just beginning to tap into its benefits, TPG Rise Fund education investor John Rogers writes in this commentary. Rogers outlines five edtech trends he envisions will take place during the next decade, including increased development of dual-language platforms and more vendors providing funding support for mental health services in schools.  Full Story: EdSurge

Apple Boosts Assistance For Those With Disabilities

With the COVID-19 pandemic increasing reliance on technology, Apple says it is rolling out extra help for people with disabilities using its products for remote learning and other purposes. Read More >