The Role of Assistive Technology
As parents and educators, we want to ensure that our children, regardless of their learning challenges, have access to the tools they need to thrive in the classroom. Fortunately, the world of assistive technology (AT) has come a long way, offering a wealth of options to support students with disabilities. From speech-to-text software to apps that help organize thoughts, these tools can empower students to engage with their education in ways that were once out of reach.
In this post, we’ll explore various assistive technologies that support students with disabilities, including tools available in general education settings and additional resources that can be requested through an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
What is Assistive Technology (AT)?
Assistive technology encompasses any device or software that helps students with disabilities perform tasks they may find difficult or impossible to do independently. The goal is to level the playing field and provide equitable access to the general education curriculum. For example, a child with dyslexia might benefit from text-to-speech software that reads aloud assignments, while a child with ADHD might use an organizational app to stay on track.
Types of Assistive Technology for Students
Speech-to-Text Software
For students with: dyslexia, ADHD, physical disabilities, or writing challenges
Speech-to-text software converts spoken words into written text. This can be particularly helpful for students who struggle with writing, whether due to motor difficulties or difficulty organizing their thoughts on paper.
Popular Options:
Dragon NaturallySpeaking: One of the most advanced speech recognition tools available, Dragon can be used to dictate essays, emails, or notes in real time.
Google Docs Voice Typing: A free, accessible tool for students who have a Google account. Simply open a document, click on "Tools," and select "Voice typing" to start dictating.
Microsoft Dictate: An add-on for Microsoft Office that allows users to dictate text into Word, Outlook, and other applications.
How It Helps:
Reduces the burden of writing and spelling for students who have dysgraphia or other writing difficulties.
Increases writing productivity by allowing students to get their ideas down quickly.
Supports students with physical disabilities by minimizing the need for manual typing.
Audiobooks and Text-to-Speech (TTS) Software
For students with: dyslexia, visual impairments, or reading difficulties
Audiobooks and text-to-speech software can read text aloud, helping students who have trouble reading standard print. These tools can be particularly beneficial for students with dyslexia, visual impairments, or other reading challenges.
Popular Options:
Learning Ally: A nonprofit that provides audiobooks for students with learning disabilities. Their library includes thousands of books, including textbooks and literature.
Bookshare: A free service for students with documented disabilities, offering audiobooks and digital texts. Bookshare's collection includes textbooks, literature, and other academic materials.
Kurzweil 3000: A text-to-speech program that can read aloud printed or digital text and includes features like highlighting, note-taking, and built-in dictionaries.
How It Helps:
Supports comprehension by providing auditory input for students who struggle with decoding text.
Allows students to engage with grade-level content that may otherwise be inaccessible due to reading challenges.
Helps improve fluency, as students can follow along with the text while listening to the narration.
Organizational and Note-Taking Apps
For students with: ADHD, executive functioning difficulties, or memory challenges
Students with ADHD or executive functioning difficulties often struggle with organizing their thoughts, keeping track of assignments, and remembering deadlines. Organizational apps can help by providing structure and reminders.
Popular Options:
Evernote: A note-taking app that allows students to organize their ideas, create checklists, and store documents. The ability to sync across devices helps students stay organized both in and out of the classroom.
Google Keep: A simple, user-friendly note-taking tool that integrates with Google Calendar and Google Docs. Students can set reminders, make voice memos, and organize notes by color and label.
Microsoft OneNote: A powerful note-taking tool that allows students to organize information into notebooks, sections, and pages. It also supports audio recordings and handwriting recognition.
How It Helps:
Supports students in organizing and managing their assignments, helping them stay on track with tasks and deadlines.
Provides a digital space for note-taking that students can revisit anytime, reducing the stress of keeping physical notes organized.
Allows students to engage in multimodal learning by combining text, voice, and visuals.
Math and Calculation Tools
For students with: dyscalculia, learning disabilities, or visual impairments
Math-related assistive technologies support students who struggle with numerical concepts or calculations. These tools can provide accommodations for tasks like problem-solving, organizing math equations, or performing calculations.
Popular Options:
ModMath: A free app designed for students with dysgraphia or other disabilities that affect handwriting. It allows students to work through math problems using a digital interface.
Calculators with Speech Output: Tools like the Talking Calculator read out the numbers and operations on a calculator, providing auditory support.
Desmos: An online graphing calculator that helps students visualize mathematical problems, from basic arithmetic to advanced algebra.
How It Helps:
Provides auditory support for students with visual impairments or those who struggle with written math.
Offers visual aids, such as graphing tools, that make abstract math concepts more tangible.
Allows students to complete math tasks independently, improving both confidence and skill.
Behavioral and Social Skills Support Apps
For students with: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), social communication difficulties, or anxiety
Students with ASD or social communication challenges can benefit from apps that teach social skills, emotional regulation, and mindfulness.
Popular Options:
Zones of Regulation: An app that helps students identify and regulate their emotions, providing strategies for self-control and social interactions.
Model Me Going Places: A social skills app that provides video modeling of appropriate behavior in various social situations.
Headspace for Kids: A mindfulness app that offers age-appropriate meditation exercises to help children calm down and manage anxiety.
How It Helps:
Supports students in understanding and managing their emotions, improving social interactions.
Provides a visual and interactive way for students to learn appropriate behaviors in real-world settings.
Reduces anxiety and stress, leading to improved focus and classroom participation.
Assistive Technology in the IEP Process
While many assistive technologies are available in general education settings, students with disabilities may be eligible for additional support through their Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP team can work together to determine which assistive technology tools will best meet a student’s needs. This could include:
Increased access to specialized software or devices (e.g., dedicated speech-to-text software or high-end screen readers).
Access to audiobooks or digital versions of textbooks via services like Bookshare.
Support with organizational tools like a digital planner or task manager.
Inclusion of training or professional support to help students learn to use AT effectively.
Parents can advocate for their child’s needs by requesting specific assistive technology tools during IEP meetings, ensuring that the right accommodations are in place to support learning and academic success.
Conclusion
Assistive technologies are powerful tools that can help students with disabilities succeed in the classroom. From speech-to-text software and audiobooks to organizational apps and math support tools, there are a wide variety of resources available to meet different needs. By working with educators and IEP teams, parents can ensure their child has the best possible access to the resources that can help them thrive.
If you’re a parent of a child with disabilities, it’s important to explore the different assistive technology options available and advocate for the tools that can support your child’s learning. With the right technology in place, your child can achieve their full academic potential.
References:
MacArthur, C. A., & Cavalier, A. R. (2004). The role of assistive technology in the writing process of students with disabilities. Journal of Learning Disabilities.
Nes, M., & Sund, A. M. (2013). Audiobooks and their impact on reading fluency in children with dyslexia. International Journal of Disability, Development, and Education.
Jitendra, A. K., et al. (2007). The effects of using technology to improve the math problem-solving performance of students with learning disabilities. Learning Disabilities Research & Practice.
Eisenhower, A. S., et al. (2015). The impact of social skills interventions for students with ASD: A meta-analysis. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
Desmos. (2021). The Desmos calculator: A tool for learning math. Retrieved from Desmos.com.