39 7.2 Positionality Statement

I am a cisgender, white woman who recognizes the privileges that have shaped my life experiences. I grew up in a financially stable household, where my father’s career was technology-dependent. From a young age, I had access to technology, which had a large impact on my digital literacy skills. As an Educational Assistant working in a special education classroom, I have seen first-hand the positive impact technology can have on our diverse learners, and how some students would be unsuccessful without certain tools. Although I believe in the benefits of technology for education purposes, I also recognize how technology can create barriers for some students who may not have the same access and resources.

Both my personal and educational background have given me an advantage in technology skills for learning. I recognize that some students within special education still face challenges in accessing technology to use it effectively. I want to advocate for positive technology integration within schools to enhance learning for all students. As I move forward in my career in education, I plan to promote the use of technology as a tool to create a more inclusive and accessible learning environment, especially for those in special education.