Assistive technology is a powerful tool that helps create inclusive learning environments for students. It’s a revolutionary force for students with disabilities or unique needs and grants every student the freedom to engage in the radiant tapestry of learning activities actively. By offering tailored support, these tools reduce the reliance on constant assistance from the teaching staff and provide the students with the confidence they need.
Key Takeaways
- Assistive technology empowers students with disabilities to foster more independent learning.
- Speech recognition software can significantly aid students with writing difficulties.
- Electronic math worksheets make math accessible for students with learning disabilities.
- Alternative keyboards and mice provide customized solutions for students with physical impairments.
- Braille support tools are essential for visually impaired students to follow along with lessons.
Speech Recognition Software
Speech recognition software, also known as speech-to-text, decodes the human voice to perform a defined behavior. An example you may be familiar with is the speech recognition software in modern smartphones. A single phrase activates the software, where you then use your voice to tell the software what to do. If you want to make a call, you can tell the software to call your friend, and the speech recognition software will start the call for you.
This form of assistive technology is also known as “speech to text” and can be used to convert speech into written text. This high-tech assistive technology software is useful in classrooms for students who find writing or typing difficult, allowing them to get their thoughts written down easily.
A speech recognition program works in conjunction with a word processor. The user “dictates” into a microphone, and their spoken words appear on the computer screen as text. This can help a user whose oral language ability is better than their writing skills.
Voice recognition software can improve word recognition, spelling, and reading comprehension skills for students with learning disabilities. For students with learning disabilities, essays dictated using Dragon Naturally Speaking were better than handwritten essays, but essays dictated to a scribe were even better.
Benefits of Speech Recognition Software
- Enhances productivity by allowing hands-free operation.
- Assists students with physical disabilities or writing challenges.
- Improves word recognition, spelling, and reading comprehension skills.
Popular Speech Recognition Tools
- Dragon Naturally Speaking: Known for its high accuracy and ease of use.
- Google Voice Typing: Integrated with Google Docs, making it accessible and free.
- Apple Dictation: Built into macOS and iOS devices, offering convenience for Apple users.
How to Get Started
- Choose a speech recognition tool that fits your needs.
- Ensure you have a good quality microphone for better accuracy.
- Spend some time training the software to recognize your voice and speech patterns.
- Practice regularly to improve your dictation skills and software accuracy.
Speech recognition software is a game-changer for many, offering a new way to interact with technology and making learning more accessible and efficient.
Speech Synthesizer
A speech synthesizer, also known as text-to-speech, reads text aloud to students. This tool is incredibly beneficial for students with disabilities, such as those with movement disorders, as they don’t have to manipulate a keyboard or mouse. It picks up syllables, speech patterns, dates, abbreviations, and more to create coherent sentences.
Examples of Speech Synthesizers
- Speechify: This text-to-speech software captures text and translates it into audio format. It’s particularly useful for textbooks, PDF reading assignments, and more. The software is compatible with the Chrome browser, iPhones, Macs, and Androids. Speechify is commonly used by learners and students with ADHD and dyslexia.
- Kurzweil 3000: Another powerful tool that supports text-to-speech functionality, helping students with reading difficulties.
Using a speech synthesizer can make learning more accessible and enjoyable for students who struggle with traditional reading methods.
Electronic Math Worksheets
Electronic math worksheets are software programs that help students organize, align, and work through math problems on a computer screen. This can be particularly beneficial for students who struggle with traditional pencil-and-paper methods. Numbers that appear onscreen can also be read aloud via a speech synthesizer, making it easier for students with visual impairments or attention deficits to complete their work.
These worksheets often work in tandem with text-to-speech software, reading math problems aloud. Some software even includes built-in talking calculators, so students don’t have to transfer attention back-and-forth between worksheets and calculators. This feature is especially useful for students with dyscalculia, who may find it challenging to differentiate numbers and align math formulas.
Electronic math worksheets are a game-changer for students with learning difficulties, providing a single space to align formulas, work through problems, and organize their thoughts.
Word Prediction Program
Word prediction programs are valuable tools for students with general writing issues. Some students have a hard time typing on their keyboard, and word prediction programs can save them a lot of time. Others have a hard time slowing their mind down to complete coherent sentences. Whatever the case, every student can benefit from this type of software.
When students type with a physical or on-screen keyboard, word prediction programs help them translate their thoughts into complete sentences. As a student completes assignments, word prediction programs detect their speech patterns. As they type more, the program suggests words the students can click or tap.
Word prediction software was originally designed for students with physical disabilities who experienced difficulty typing. However, word prediction with text-to-speech is also effective for students with learning disabilities because it reduces the need for handwriting, and improves students’ spelling accuracy and writing skills.
This type of software is especially empowering for students who struggle with writing, providing them with the tools they need to succeed.
Alternative Keyboards and Mice
Some students have difficulties using traditional keyboards and mice. The fine and gross motor movements can be difficult for students with limited mobility, and students with visual impairments may find it hard to read keyboard fonts.
There are a number of alternative keyboards and mice available. Most are compatible with modern computers and laptops. Some alternative keyboards and mice attributes include:
- Larger fonts
- Color-coded key groupings
- Angled keyboard shapes
- Orbital mice
A traditional keyboard and mouse is not always the most efficient way of navigating websites, especially for individuals who experience physical disabilities and/or mobility issues. Alternative devices include adapted keyboards, joysticks, trackballs and more.
Provide parents with resources on where they can find an alternative keyboard or mouse that suits their student’s individual needs. Or, consider talking to your school administrator about supplying these keyboards and mice to students.
Alternative input devices can significantly enhance the learning experience for students with physical disabilities, making technology more accessible and user-friendly.
Braille Support
Braille support is essential for students with visual impairments to follow along with lessons. There are a handful of Braille support tools for online learning. Two of the most influential support tools are:
- Braille printer: A Braille printer is like a normal printer, but instead of printing text in ink, it prints text in Braille. This assistive technology is especially useful when distributing textbook pages or worksheets.
- Refreshable Braille display: Most commonly, a Braille display device is a keyboard attachment that displays text from a computer screen. It takes information from the screen — wherever the cursor is — and raises or retracts the Braille characters to reflect the information displayed.
Solid parent-teacher communication is crucial because not everyone can afford Braille displays or printers.
Proofreading Programs
Proofreading programs are a fantastic tool for students who struggle with writing, including issues with spelling, grammar, punctuation, word usage, and sentence structure. These software programs, often included in many word processing systems, scan documents and alert users to possible errors. This can be incredibly empowering for students, especially those in special education courses.
Many proofreading programs are free and can be installed on web browsers. As students type, the program will correct mistakes, provide quick translations, define words when prompted, and act as a personal trainer. This makes the writing process smoother and more efficient.
Students can also use the spelling and grammar check functions available in these applications to review their work before submission. For those with reading and writing disabilities, text-to-speech features can read the written texts aloud, and speech-to-text can help dictate what they want to write.
Proofreading programs don’t just correct mistakes; they help students learn and improve their writing skills over time, making them more confident and capable writers.
Talking Calculator
A talking calculator is like an average calculator, except it has a built-in speech synthesizer that vocalizes numbers, operations, symbols, and solutions. Talking calculators are particularly helpful for students who are visually impaired. When working through solutions, the calculator confirms they clicked the right number and will vocalize the calculated solution.
Talking calculators may also be beneficial for students with other disabilities. The added element of verbal confirmation can help students stay focused and engaged. Students can find online talking calculators. Or, they may prefer purchasing a physical talking calculator.
Talking calculators are a fantastic tool for inclusive learning environments, providing essential support for diverse learners.
Timer
Timers are an essential tool in the classroom, especially for students who need help with time management. Visual timers can be used to show students how long is left of a current task or when the next task will start. However, when using software such as timers, it is important to use vibrant colors with a clear color contrast, to ensure students with visual impairments can still see it easily. It’s also important to note that these timers can be beneficial to all students, not just those with disabilities.
Benefits of Using Timers
- Transitioning from task to task: Switching tasks can feel overwhelming for students, especially those with an autism spectrum disorder. Having a timer helps students mentally prepare for the switch and maintain their motivation.
- Staying on task: When students see the timer ticking down, they may feel more motivated to complete their tasks before the timer finishes.
- Promoting independence: Timing a task tells students what they need to do and how much time they have to do it. This sense of independence can be empowering for students.
Practical Tips
You can use a digital timer, keep a timer in-view on your webcam, or encourage students to buy their own timers to keep on their desks.
Graphic Organizers and Outlining Programs
Graphic organizers and outlining programs are essential tools for students, especially those with learning disabilities. These tools help in visually mapping out ideas, making it easier to see connections and organize thoughts. Students have a busy schedule, and these programs can make their workload more manageable, reducing feelings of being overwhelmed.
One popular tool is Inspiration 11, a visual thinking tool for creating mind maps, concept maps, graphic organizers, outlines, and presentations with ease. Using such software can significantly improve the quality and quantity of writing by providing a clear framework for organizing ideas.
- **Benefits of Graphic Organizers: **
- Helps in visually mapping out ideas
- Makes it easier to see connections and organize thoughts
- Reduces feelings of being overwhelmed
Using a web-based graphic organizer with procedural prompts enabled students to produce better organized and higher quality papers than they could with handwritten organizers.
Conclusion
Incorporating assistive technology into the learning environment is a game-changer for both teachers and students. These tools not only create a more inclusive classroom but also empower students with disabilities to become more independent and confident learners. From high-tech solutions like speech recognition software to low-tech aids like graphic organizers, there’s a wide range of options to meet diverse needs. By embracing these technologies, educators can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed and thrive in their educational journey. So, let’s continue to explore and integrate these amazing tools to make learning accessible and enjoyable for everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is assistive technology?
Assistive technology encompasses tools, devices, software, and strategies designed to help individuals with disabilities. In education, it aims to eliminate barriers and ensure equitable learning opportunities for students with diverse needs.
How does speech recognition software help in learning?
Speech recognition software converts spoken words into text, helping students who have difficulty with typing or writing. It allows them to complete assignments and communicate more effectively.
What is a speech synthesizer?
A speech synthesizer converts written text into spoken words. It is particularly useful for students with visual impairments or reading difficulties, enabling them to access written content audibly.
How do electronic math worksheets work?
Electronic math worksheets are digital versions of traditional math worksheets. They often include interactive features and can be used with assistive tools like screen readers, making math problems more accessible to students with disabilities.
What is a word prediction program?
A word prediction program suggests words as a student types, helping them to complete sentences more quickly and with fewer errors. This is especially beneficial for students with dyslexia or other learning disabilities.
Why are alternative keyboards and mice important?
Alternative keyboards and mice are designed to meet the needs of students with physical disabilities. These devices can be customized to provide easier access to computer functions, facilitating better interaction with digital content.
What is Braille support?
Braille support includes tools and devices that convert text into Braille, allowing visually impaired students to read and write. Examples include Braille displays and Braille embossers.
How can proofreading programs assist students?
Proofreading programs help students by checking their work for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. These programs can provide suggestions for corrections, making it easier for students to produce polished, error-free writing.