Content Suggestions
Reading
Writing
Math
Organization
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Text to speech
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Appropriate tools: computer, iPad, iTouch, netbook, e-reader​
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Programs: Natural Reader, Read Please, Read and Write Gold, Word Q
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Accessible text
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Appropriate tools: digital text, MP3 players, eText​
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Supported eText
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Appropriate tools: digital or electronic text ​
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Word Processing
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Appropriate tools: portable keyboard
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Programs: Microsoft Word
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Spell Checkers
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Graphic Organizers
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Programs: Inspiration ​
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Digital Text (for textbooks)
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Concrete Manipulatives
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Appropriate tools: geoboard, cuisenaire rods​
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Virtual Manipulatives
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CAI computer programs
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Anchored Instruction
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Common Technology
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Appropriate Tools: smartphones, personal digital assistants, handheld devices, smartpens ​
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Graphic Organizers and Planning Tools
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Programs: SOLO Literacy Suite
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(Courtad & Bouck, 2015)
Integration
In our ever changing world, technology filled world, assistive technology resources are fortunately plentiful. While it may be tempting to utilize high technology tools in providing assistive technology adaptations for your students, research suggests the gradual integration of technology to be the least invasive/stigmatizing (Courtad & Bouck, 2015).
Also consider the addition of a learner productivity tool kit for your student. This approach is centered around the idea of proactivity, in having a set of tools that the student may utilize in daily activities in each content area. Low tech tools such as pencil grips, calculators, large font, downloadable free online materials, and books on tape, as well as medium to high tech tools would be beneficial additions to the kit (Lee & Templeton, 2008).
Benefits
NO tech: no technology required, i.e. mnemonic devices
1.
(Courtad & Bouck, 2015)
Low Tech: low cost, easy to use, does not require battery/power source.
2.
(Courtad & Bouck, 2015)
Mid/Moderate Tech: requires battery/power source, increase in complexity and training required.
3.
(Courtad & Bouck, 2015)
High Tech: computer based devices or programs, more expensive, requires additional training
4.
(Courtad & Bouck, 2015)
Augment
Student
Skills
Rehabilitate/
Reeducate
Facilitate
Normalcy
(Wisniewski & Sedlak, 1992)
Assistive technology has the potential to augment student skills, rehabilitate and reeducate, as well as facilitate normalcy. In order to ensure the highest rate of effectiveness, it is imperative that educators and administrators are appropriately trained. Collaboration amongst families, educators, and administrators can also help to increase the effectiveness of any given tool.
Assistive technology allows for the completion of tasks at a quicker rate with a higher rate of efficiency, increased independence in completing tasks, improved performance, and ultimately increased academic performance (Forgrave, 2012).