Using Technology to Provide Opportunities to Respond in Synchronous Online Learning Environments

The increase in enrollment in online programs for Grades K–12 students, including students with disabilities, requires teachers to consider how to provide effective online instruction. Although schools may offer students a fully online curriculum, teachers serve an essential role in supporting students with disabilities in meeting (a) learning goals of the online curriculum and (b) individual needs as outlined in the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Because students with disabilities often need targeted instruction to meet their academic and behavioral needs, teachers should consider integrating small group synchronous instruction to supplement fully online curricula. This article provides teachers with guidance on how to select appropriate online tools and technology to increase opportunities to respond throughout the main components of explicit instruction (i.e., modeling, guided, and independent practice).