In my previous blog I discussed the process of considering and assessing different types of AT for students, so in this post I am going to explore a variety of AT devices. These are just a few examples but there are so many options out there!
EXPLORING ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Word Prediction Software:
Word Prediction software allows students to write independently and will suggest words when the writer is stuck. This particular software, WordQ, can
also read text to students and check his/her grammar and punctuation. This type of software will help students with dyslexia, cognitive deficits and speech/language disorders.
Talking Word Processors:
Talking word processors are a writing software program use on PCs and Macs that provides speech feedback to students as they write. Some versions will pronounce each letter and each word as a student writes. In addition, the software will read the entire text back to student, which assist with editing. The software, similar to word prediction, will check spelling, grammar and punctuation. This software is great for students with learning disabilities. A common Talking Word Processor is the Premier Talking Word Processor.
Naturally Speaking Voice Recognition:
Speaking Voice recognition software has recently grown in popularity through the word and being us variety of users. The most common Naturally Speak Recognition is Dragon. The software listens to the user and when the user pauses the software is transcribe what the user has said into word text. This type of software will be very helpful for students with learning disabilities, fine motor deficits and/or physically handicap and unable to use a keyboard.
Scan and Read Software:
Scan and Read Software, also known as reading pens, reads text a loud to readers. These devices make reading easier and more enjoyable. The student will scan the device across unknown text and the device with will pronounce to word(s) the student. Students with dyslexia will find these devices very helpful because the student can focus on comprehending the text verse struggling to decode words. In addition this software can help the visually impaired.
Books on CD:
A common brands of Books on CD that are found in schools are Future 2 Students and Reading Explore. Books on CD will help students with learning disabilities, ADHD and visual impairments. Also, books on CD will assist ESL students.
Multisensory Educational Software:
Multisensory education software is used in a variety of curriculum areas. The software is designed for students to access information through multiple avenues, particularly by stimulating students' senses. These programs are great for students with learning disabilities because they are accessing the information in a variety ways, which will help the students retain the information.
Adapted keyboard:
Keyboards can be adapted for a variety of needs. Letters and symbols on the keys can be enlarged to help students with visual impairments. Keys can be colored coded to help students with specific learning disabilities to memorize how types. The shape of keyboards can be adapted to create a more natural way typing. The image I have selected to displayed is a keyboard designed for students with visual impairments. The keys and the symbols have been enlarged and keys have been eliminated to create a more simple and manageable keyboard for students with visual impairments.
Portable Word Processor:
Portable Word Processor are very helpful for students with ADHD, learning disabilities and deficiencies with fine motor control (handwriting). These devices were designed to encourage students to become self-efficient and independent learners. Students are able to carry the devices from class to class and take notes independently. Neo2s are a common portable word processor, which is often found in schools.
Assisted Literacy Software:
Assisted literacy software helps students with learning disabilities to develop their reading skills. Computer Assisted Literacy Solution (CALS) is software often found in schools. This program is a self-pace interactive program that assists students with reading fluency.
Voice output communication device:
These devices are used to assisted children with autism and speech/language disorders. Voice output communication devices provide children with a voice to effectively communicate their thoughts and ideas. The image to the right demonstrates how the devices incorporate a combination of words and images on the keyboard.
Learning Software to teach Keyboarding skills:
This type of software is designed to assist any child with keyboarding skills; however, it can also help children with learning disabilities and fine-motor deficiencies. These programs are designed to support the muscle memory of typing through fun and engaging activities.
Electronic touch tablet:
These types of tablets of are going in demand everyday. This tablet can help students with a variety of needs, including, students with autism, speech/language disorders, intellectual disabilities and/or physically handicapped. Electronic touch tablet open up opportunities for children with disabilities. Children that are unable to read books because they do not have the motor skills to hold or flip pages are now able to read books using a touch tablet. Touch tablets can also assist with learning academics through interactive games. The options are endless with touch tablets. Below is an electronic touch tablet that helps children practices early literacy skills.
I had a blast exploring the variety of devices and computer software available for students with learning disabilities. Check out my next blog on IPads to learn more about Electronic Touch tablets.
References:
http://www.albany.edu/disability/AT%20Handout%202012.pdf
http://atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics/Curriculum/Reading/talkingWord.php
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_NaturallySpeaking
http://www.readingmadeez.com/products/scanreadpro.html
http://www.earobics.com/solutions/tour.php
http://www.aacandautism.com/why-aac/why-use-aac
http://www.typingweb.com/
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