Students with learning disabilities can qualify for assistive technology. Altering processes and output is the main focus of students with learning disabilities when using assistive technology. There are several computer access approaches used to help students. Students have the ability to change the appearance of information, use spell check and grammar check, and they also have the alternative to use a touch window instead of a mouse. Voice output devices allow students to get information using their sense of hearing. By highlighting a word or sentence students can be read to by using a text to speech device. Students that struggle with writing can also receive speech to text software or devices. For students with extreme communication disorders there are picture based programs. These programs allow students to use pictures to process a document.
Sensory Disabilities
Students with sensory disabilities use assistive technology to focus on altering the output of information. This includes screen magnifiers and large contrasted key labels. Screen readers allow students with low vision or blindness to navigate the computer by enlarging the screen. Speech synthesizers allow the contents of a screen to be read to students. Printed documents can be scanned and spoken with synthesized speech. Students with low vision or blindness can also take advantage of toggle keys which emit auditory tones when pressing the cap, number, and scroll lock. Windows software also allows users to adjust the contrast and fonts for easier reading.
Low and High Tech Assistive Technology Devices
Assistive technology devices help to lessen barriers and enhance capabilities of individuals with special needs. Assistive technology devices are classified in two categories, low and high tech. Low tech devices are less complicated to use, more cost efficient, and are usually smaller and light weight. High tech devices are more complicated such as computers and portable word processors. These devices are normally more expensive and require some type of training.
Examples of Low Tech Devices
Tape- used to emphasize words and phrases, can also add contrast for easier reading
Pencil Grip- used to help students whose fine motor skills are challenged by using pencils and other writing utensils
Examples of High Tech Devices
Kidspiration- used to help make graphic organizers for students who struggle with organizing their ideas for writing
Portable Word Processors- used to assist students when constructing written documents 
Jenelle, great choices for the high/low tech devices. I especially like the idea of Kidspiration. Graphic organizers are great for any student, but for someone with a disability it can be a life saver. It can help organize their thoughts prior to writing, therefore their confidence will be higher and hopefully they level of frustration will be lower.
ReplyDeletePencil grips are a life saver! It is such a low tech assistive device for children but make a world of difference for students with challenges with their fine motor skills. It is a simple tool that teachers can use to support the needs of their students. Great example!
ReplyDelete