"Since We're Friends" by Celeste Shelly
This artifact is a digital adaptation of the physical book "Since We're Friends" by Celeste Shelly, which was created using the Book Creator software. This interactive e-book serves as a valuable resource for a wide range for a wide range of students, including those with disabilities. One of its standout features is the text-to-speech function, which is particularly beneficial for students who struggle with reading or are nonreaders. By making the content more accessible and multimodal, it ensures that every student, regardless of reading ability, can engage with the material. Beyond its practical features, the e-book addresses important themes of diversity and inclusion. It can be incorporated into lessons that teach students about fostering empathetic and understanding meaningful friendships. Specifically, this book opens the door to discussions about how to be a good friend to someone with autism, fostering an inclusive classroom environment where students learn to value differences.
ISTE-E
In my eBook project, I successfully met ISTE-E Standard 2.5.b which focuses on designing authentic learning activities that integrate digital tools and resources. I chose Book Creator as the primary platform for this project because it enabled both my students and myself to seamlessly navigate the book in a digital format, creating a more intuitive and accessible reading (Menin et al., 2016). Additionally, I explored and utilized digital drawing tools to overlay and rewrite small, printed text, enhancing the readability and accessibility of the book for all students, including those with disabilities. This step ensured that the text was clearer and easier to follow, prompting a more inclusive learning environment. By incorporating these digital tools, I was able to create a more dynamic and personalized educational resource, fostering better engagement and comprehension.
ISTE-S
This e-book adaptation of Since We're Friends aligns with ISTE-S Standard 1.4 Innovative Designer, which emphasizes the use of technology to solve problems and create innovative solutions. By leveraging Book Creator software, the project transforms a traditional book into a multimodal digital resource, demonstrating an innovative approach to accessibility and inclusion. The integration of features like text-to-speech functionality addresses barriers faced by students with reading challenges or disabilities, enabling all learners to access and engage with the material. This digital format allows students to interact with the book in ways that foster independence and creativity, such as exploring interactive elements or listening to narrated content. Additionally, the e-book's focus on themes of diversity and inclusion encourages students to think critically and empathetically, which are key components of innovative problem-solving. By presenting the story in a format accessible to diverse learners, the artifact models how technology can be used to support equity and inclusion in the classroom. Students can learn how to approach real-world challenges, like creating inclusive communities, through both the content and the format of the e-book. This project inspires students to design and implement their creative solutions, equipping them with the tools and mindset to solve problems innovatively. By combining technology and meaningful content, the artifact not only enhances accessibility but also empowers students to think creatively and collaboratively about fostering inclusive environments.
InTASC
This digital storybook aligns with InTASC Rationale number 1, which emphasizes the educator's understanding of the central concepts, tools, and structures of various disciplines to create meaningful learning experiences for students. By incorporating a digital format, the storybook transforms traditional reading into an interactive experience, making it easier for students, especially those with disabilities, to engage with the material. The digital design allows students to manipulate the book with greater ease, enhancing accessibility and promoting independence. Features like adjustable text size, optional audio narration, and interactive elements cater to diverse learning needs, offering a personalized approach to reading. This new learning experience encourages students to engage more deeply with the content, fostering a sense of accomplishment and love for learning. Ultimately, the digital storybook not only supports academic growth but also empowers students to navigate texts with confidence and enthusiasm.
Peer Reviewed Article
Menin, A., Perham, J., Vong, J., & Wachtel, A. (2016). Using e-books to create shared learning experiences between students of differing abilities. Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention, 9(1), 12–18. https://doi.org/10.1080/19411243.2016.1153375