21st Century Teaching Tools | Something New in Teaching Tools
One such challenge is working with students on the autism spectrum, where unique strategies are often required to facilitate learning. One of my supervisors shared an innovative solution involves the use of LED chopsticks, a seemingly unconventional tool, to aid in the reading process for these students.
Of course, I have to share it with all of you because I think it is a great idea in a Star Wars sorta-way.
The LED chopsticks, originally designed for culinary purposes, offer a surprising application within the classroom. These chopsticks come with a built-in LED light feature that can be activated with a simple button push, illuminating the area around them. While they may not require Jedi training, these chopsticks can serve as a valuable tool for educators seeking to engage and support students with autism, particularly those struggling to maintain focus on reading materials.
One of the primary challenges educators face when working with students on the autism spectrum is keeping their attention on the task at hand. Many students with autism may experience difficulties with sensory processing, leading to wandering eyes and reduced concentration. The LED chopsticks can be employed as a visual guide to direct the student's attention to the text they are reading. Placing the illuminated chopsticks on or near the words in the reading material can create a clear visual pathway, reducing distractions and enhancing the student's ability to focus on the content.
The benefits of using LED chopsticks in the classroom extend beyond their attention-directing capabilities. These chopsticks are made from durable, easy-to-clean plastic material, ensuring they withstand the rigors of a classroom environment. The ergonomic design, featuring passivizing treatment to prevent injuries and a threaded upper part for comfortable grip, ensures ease of use for both educators and students.
Additionally, the lightweight and heat-insulating properties of LED chopsticks make them practical tools for various classroom activities. Their portability makes them ideal for classroom settings where mobility and adaptability are essential. Moreover, the heat insulation feature can be particularly useful when working with students who may require specialized diets or have sensory sensitivities to temperature.
TEACHING TOOL - NOT A TOY
These chopsticks can serve as valuable educational aids when incorporated into a mainstream classroom setting. However, it's crucial to emphasize their intended purpose and handle their usage with care. As we know, our kiddos can be rambunctious and may start a Star Wars fight with each other. Nothing wrong with a Star wars fight as George Lukas would probably get a chuckle out of it. But we really don’t want kids doing that in the classroom, unless of course they use the catch phrase: “Luke (breath, pant, breath, pant) I am your father.”
If you opt to introduce them to your general education classroom, I recommend reminding students that while these chopsticks are sturdy, they should not be treated as playthings. In the event students express interest in using them for anything other than their intended purpose, it's important to convey that they will be confiscated. To be candid, some of our students are particularly energetic, and it might be necessary for you to provide direct supervision to ensure the proper use of these tools.
