You can do a multitude of things with iPods/MP3 players to help students with learning, behavior, and communication disorders. I know students with reading difficulties who download audio books and or their text books to listen to, use software to translate text on the computer into MP3 files to listen to, and record teacher lectures or cues to remind themselves how to complete assignments. You can record calming music and add voice to describe how to handle social situations or anxiety-reduction before tests. Students with more severe behavior disorders watch video clips of themselves completing work tasks or transitioning between activities to help them comply with requests. Others listen to music either for a calming effect or with specially written songs containing words reminding them of activities they need to complete.
One of the most exciting new applications for the iPod Touch or iPhone is an augmentative communication software program called Proloque. This will enable a nonspeaking or minimally verbal adult or child with good use of his/her fingers to recall words and phrases pre-programmed in pictures or words to talk. There has never been such a light weight and socially-acceptable option. For those interested, you can go to http://www.proloquo2go.com/
