Assistive Technology Devices in the Classroom

In the previous post I shared with you the role that assessment plays when determining which types of AT if any, will be used in the classroom. I also shared a specific type of AT called Automatic Speech Recognition or ASR as a type of assistive technology that can be used in the classroom to meet the specific needs of students with physical or learning disabilities.

In this post we will explore a variety of additional types of AT that can be used in the classroom. Keep in mind that our goal as educators is to make learning accessible for all students. These valuable tools and resources provide many opportunities to do just that.

Word Prediction Software

See the product demonstration!



This software can help a user during word processing by predicting indended words (much like today's text messaging). Software such as CoWriter 6 is used in over 5000 schools around the country with students who struggle with using proper spelling and grammar when writing. Word prediction software is also helpful to students with physical disabilities because it allows for fewer keystrokes.

Talking Word Processor

Check out this awesome demo!

Talking word processors provide feedback as a student writes echoing each letter as it is typed and each word after the spacebar is pressed. Struggling or reluctant readers and writers, students with learning disabilities, or students who have grammar and spelling challenges will benefit from this type of support. This software Write:OutLoud6 will also work alongside CoWriter 6 mentioned above. 

Naturally Speaking Voice Recognition Software

Simply put, this makes using a computer easier. As they say on Dragon's website: you talk, it types. This can be used by anyone, but is extremely beneficial for anyone who struggles with fine motor or a physical disability that makes using the functions of a computer difficult or impossible.

 

Scan and Read Software

Open Book is a scan and read software that reads text aloud while highlighting spoken words. It can also convert printed or graphic based text into speech. I would love
to use this to scan textbooks and assessments that I give to students that require that auditory support. ELL, ADD, ADHD,  students with dyslexia and struggling readers would be more successful with this type of software.

Books on CD

Books on CD are great options for making learning accessible for all students. These can be listened to anywhere a CD player is accessible and can be purchased rather inexpensively or reserved at local libraries. All students as well as those with learning, visual, or physical disabilties can engage in literacy when listening to a book on CD. These are great in the classroom because students can use them independently!

Multisensory Educational Software

All types of learners can interact efficiently with this type of software that simultaneously engages visual, auditory, kinestetic, and tactile senses to enhance memory and learning. Software such as Touch Math comes with hands on materials as well as a software tutor component that will also benefit students with ADHD by keeping them engaged in the learning process.

Watch the kindergarten Touch Math Tutor!

Adapted Keyboards

Adapted keyboards are accomodating devices for students with visual impairments, poor fine motor skills or other physical disability involving the fingers or the hands. There are many types of these keyboards:

Compact Keyboard

• Can fit easily onto a wheelchair tray
• A better option for those who have difficulty with full size keyboards

Keyguard

• Goes over the keyboard and has holes that helps the indiviual identify the correct keys with ease
• User can rest their hands without hitting other keys

Intellikeys Keyboard

• can plug into keyboard ports on computers
• instantly provides seven overlays of alternative keyboards

Jumbo Board

• has large keys that are color coded

Indestructible Keyboard

• silicon-based flexible keyboard
• won't affect the function of keyboard those who have difficulty controlling saliva

Portable Word Processor

Students who have difficulty writing because of fine motor challenges or any other disability, can be successful with a portable word processor like the Alpha Smart Neo. Text can be store and later retrieved and printed from a computer. The Neo2 can be used with all subjects of the curriculum and comes with built-in lessons from writing to math facts!

Assisted Literacy Software

Assisted Literacy Software assists in the teaching of reading and helps students to develop literacy skills such as: phonemic awareness, fluency, word recognition, and comprehension. All students in addition to struggling readers, English Language Learners, students with dyslexia or a reading disability can engage in an assisted literacy software such as PAL or Picture Assisted Literacy created by Slater Software which uses graphic drawings to support words from all areas of curriculum.

Voice Output Communication Device

 

According to Wikipedia, these devices are electronic systems used to supplement or replace speech or writing for individuals with severe speech impairments. They allow individuals to become active participants in communication interactions. Dynavox is the leading provider of speech generating devices including the EyeMax that can be controlled with eye motions!

Type to Learn Software

Teaches students through interactive games and activities how to properly use a keyboard to type most efficiently. On typing-for-kids-software-reviews.com, the number one rated software program for 2013 was the Typing Instructor Platinum for Kids Software. It was described as having a variety of age-appropriate, graduated typing lessons and games that help children learn to type at a very young age.

Electronic Touch Tablet

Tablets and iPads can be a very accomodating device for people with disabilties. Teachers can load them with applications to practice a variety of curricular skills and they require very minimal physical movement. Apple.com had a a very informative page dedicated to the many ways their touch devices can be modified for needs in learning and literacy, vision, hearing, and physical and motor skills.  I never thought about using FaceTime for students who use sign language or that iProducts can come with a Braille display!