Episode 162 | Brian S Friedlander | AssistiveTek, LLC | The Knowledge Entrepreneurs Show

May 13 2024

56 min

Episode Description

Brian Friedlander, an expert in assistive technology, discusses his career journey and the evolution of assistive technology over the past 40 years. He highlights the impact of technology in leveling the playing field for students with disabilities and improving their independence and self-concept. Brian emphasizes the importance of training and implementation in schools to effectively utilize assistive technology tools. He also mentions the integration of assistive technology features into mainstream operating systems and the role of networking and feedback in his relationship with product makers. Brian S. Friedlander discusses various assistive technologies that utilize AI, including reading pens, mind mapping applications, and note-taking tools. He highlights the advancements in AI and its impact on education and professional development. Friedlander also mentions a product he is excited about called X note, which combines digital pen technology with ChatGPT for transcribing handwritten notes.

Key Takeaways

Assistive technology has evolved significantly over the past 40 years, leveling the playing field for students with disabilities and improving their independence and self-concept.
Training and implementation are crucial for effectively utilizing assistive technology tools in schools.
Mainstream operating systems now incorporate assistive technology features, making them more accessible to all users.
Networking and providing feedback to product makers are important for staying up-to-date with the latest tools and improving their functionality. Assistive technologies that utilize AI, such as reading pens and mind mapping applications, have greatly improved accessibility for students with disabilities.
AI has revolutionized the note-taking process, with tools like audio recorders that transcribe sessions and create summaries and mind maps.
Differentiation in education has become easier with AI, as websites like DIFFIT can generate text at different reading levels for students.
AI has made professional development more accessible, allowing educators to learn about new technologies and share their expertise globally.
The combination of digital pen technology and AI, like the X note product, has the potential to enhance note-taking and organization.