Introduction to Assistive Technology

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Jon Chu, MA, MSPT, CSCS provided our community partnerships presentation in November on the topic of assistive technology.  He specifically focused on the important role that assistive technology plays in helping students with different learning abilities to experience success in an academic environment. Often, the need for AT in the classroom is centered around input (e.g. reading), and output (e.g. writing).  Here are some common examples of ways AT can support these skills:

Some ways to facilitate improved input of information include:

·       Visual modifications.  This could include changes to spacing and font, reduction of distractions on the page or screen, and screen masking.  Snap and Read is one application that can reduce distractions on a webpage.  Open Dyslexic is a font that can be helpful for readers with dyslexia.

·       Text-to-Speech. This feature has a digital voice that reads aloud as it visually highlights text.  Voice Dream Reader and ClaroPDF are two apps that provide this function. 

·       Audiobooks. Students who are auditory learners sometimes prefer a human voice to a digital one, and so audiobooks can be a helpful resource.  Librivox provides free public domain audiobooks.  LearningAlly is a subscription service for students with print disabilities that provides popular and age appropriate audio books.

 Some ways to facilitate improved output of information include:

·       Low tech devices such as adapted writing utensils or adapted paper

·       Digital writing practice. Writing Wizard is one great app for physical handwriting practice.  Word Wizard is another helpful resource for digital writing practice that allows the user to input custom word lists.

·       Word processing.  This includes keyboarding as well as spelling helps. 

·       Rate enhancements, including word prediction, dictation, or speech-to-text.

·       Organizational helps.  This can include graphic organizers, note-taking tools and recording devices.  Inspiration and Mindmup are two great digital tools for organization support.

Resources:

-  Apple App Store and the Chrome Extension stores each have a whole accessibility section help you find what you are looking for!

-   Impact of AT on education, employment, and independence by Stumo, Martin, and Hedrick
https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-vocational-rehabilitation/jvr00456

Originally posted by Growing Healthy Children Therapy Services via Locable