Assistive Technology Tools Alisha Little EDN Dr. Ertzberger

What is Assistive Technology? Tools that benefit students with disabilities Adaptive & rehabilitative devices Aim to make everyday activities easier to perform Helps create an inclusive classroom environment

Tools for the Visually Impaired Screen Reader Closed Circuit Magnification Braille Translation Devices

Screen Reader

A program that uses sound and pictures to help explain what is on a computer screen This AT tool could be used to allow visually impaired students to participate in computer-based activities (i.e. Webquests or online research). Academic Gains: Students will have the ability to access the Internet and other computer programs that they may otherwise not be able to use. Potential Barriers: The keystrokes are often difficult to remember. Also, the screen reader might not be compatible with the school’s computer operating system.

Closed Circuit Magnification

A device that enlarges words and objects to allow for easier viewing of text and images Students who have visual impairments will be able to view text that would be next to impossible for them to view otherwise. Academic Gains: With the use of this device, the student will have access to the same texts as his or her classmates. Potential Barriers: Eye fatigue can occur if the student uses this device for long periods of time without a break.

Braille Translation Devices

Translates words on a computer screen into readable braille (a tactile writing system) Blind students have the ability to read text in this format. Academic Gains: Students will feel more independent if they can read their own text without having a teacher or assistant read it to them. Potential Barriers: Unified English Braille is considered a general purpose code, so it would be difficult to use this reading system in subject areas such as math and some sciences.

Tools for the Developmentally/Physically Challenged Adaptive Keyboard Alternate Communication Devices Adaptive Student Desks

Adaptive Keyboard

A keyboard that makes it easier for special needs students to type and navigate online. Often times, the keyboard is alphabetized to reduce strain on the user. Students can use this device to help them better focus on the task at hand and not fall behind in the lesson. Academic Gains: Students will feel like they are on the same page as their peers because they won’t be taking twice as long to complete the same task. Potential Barriers: Prevents students from learning how to use a standard keyboard

Alternate Communication Devices

Helps students with Down Syndrome, Autism, and other developmental disorders communicate their thoughts, needs, wants and ideas. The student could use this device during group work so he or she could input ideas and/or ask questions. Academic Gains: Teachers can better understand what their students want, and students can more easily communicate without frustration. Potential Barriers: Some students may stop using speech altogether. This could potentially become an issue because students with disabilities should try to use language whenever possible.

Adaptive Student Desks

This tool is specifically designed for students with mobility or neurological disabilities. It is adjustable and helps students feel more comfortable while doing their work. If there was a student with severe ADHD in your class, you could let them use what is known as an Alphabetter Desk. This desk allows students to sit, stand, and swing their legs based on their natural energy levels. Academic Gains: Students will not feel limited by their disability. They will have accommodations made so they can successfully complete their work. Potential Barriers: Could be distracting for other students if the student sitting at the desk is constantly tapping and swinging their legs.

Tools for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Personal Amplification Device Audio/Visual Communication Devices Voice to Text Translation

Personal Amplification Device

This tool makes sounds louder around the student with a hearing impairment. This allows the student to hear more clearly. If you had a student who is hard of hearing, you would use this device so the student could hear your lectures. Academic Gains: Students will not miss out on important things the teacher says. The student will feel confident that they are receiving the same information as his or her classmates. Potential Barriers: The placement of speakers is critical, and the level of sound output required by the individual with a hearing impairment may not be comfortable for other students in the class.

Audio/Visual Communication Devices

These devices combine sound with up close views of mouth movement to enhance understanding. The up close recording of the teacher’s mouth movements could be shown on a small screen for the student to watch during class lectures. Academic Gains: The student will be able to rely on multiple senses (i.e. sight and hearing) when it comes to receiving information. This way, the student will not strain themselves trying to hear every single word. Potential Barriers: If the screen is in a place where the entire class can see it, this could distract students from actually listening to what the teacher is saying.

Voice to Text Translation

This software device has the capability of translating spoken words into readable text on a corresponding screen. So students don’t get behind while a teacher is giving a lesson, this VT Translator allows a teacher’s voice to be translated to text within 1-2 seconds of speaking! Academic Gains: This tool can empower students to contribute to class discussions since they now can keep up with the material and learn at the same time as their peers. Potential Barriers: Although the technology has rapidly improved, the translation is not perfect. Students may receive some text that doesn’t make sense or isn’t what the teacher actually said.

Assistive Technology Tools Have The Power To Improve The Lives Of Our Students