USCA LIFE Program advances instruction with new Apple tech
USCA LIFE student enjoys working on assignments using his brand-new iPad Pro provided by the program.
At USCA, the USCA LIFE (Learning Is For Everyone) program will have new state of the art Apple technology for the 2024-2025 school year.
In collaboration with ClemsonLIFE and Coastal Carolina’s LIFE program, USCA LIFE submitted a joint proposal seeking $512,862 from the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education to purchase Apple products to bolster their college transition programs (CTPs).
A significant amount of this grant is being used to purchase Apple products to support USCA LIFE students during the school year. Each student and instructor will receive Apple Watch and iPad (10th generation). One HomePod will be housed in each apartment on campus. The USCA LIFE classroom space will be outfitted with iMac and Apple TV. The staff will also receive MacBook Pro or iPad Pro.
“With iPad and Apple Watch, students will learn and practice important skills they can take with them after graduation,” said Dr. Melissa Martin, program director of USCA LIFE. “This will increase their independence in employment and independent living after completing the USCA LIFE program.”
The University has also engaged with Apple to provide 14 days of professional development and training to students and staff in the USCA LIFE program, helping everyone learn the tools and resources they need to ensure they succeed in college and beyond.
“We will primarily be using the new technology in two distinct ways: instruction and wellness,” said Dr. Martin. “We will be utilizing iPad in the USCA LIFE coursework to teach and practice technology literacy skills. iPad is versatile, secure, and accessible, which gives our students equal opportunity to access their learning in a way that works for them.”
Additionally, the program has partnered with the USCA’s Exercise Sports Science Department to develop a new Movement Mentors initiative. Second year USCA LIFE program students will be paired with an exercise sports science major. The pairs will develop physical activity goals and work towards those goals this fall. Students will utilize Apple Watch to track their movement.
USCA LIFE is a two-year program that focuses on learning opportunities, social engagement, independent living, and skills for employment for students with intellectual disabilities.
For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.