A SSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY TOOLS Morgan McGlamery EDN 303

A SSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Screen Reader Definition A program that combines sound and picture to help explain what is on the computer Scenario: – A student that is blind or has a visual impairment might use a screen reader in the classroom to help them identify and interpret what is being displayed on the screen when working on a Web 2.0 site. Academic Gains: – Allows blind/visually impaired to: Read online resources Create word documents for assignments Barriers: – Blind individuals will only be hearing the computerized voice, and will not be seeing how to spell the words.

Closed Circuit Magnification Definition A device that can enlarge words and objects on a screen for easier viewing Scenario: – A student could use this device to enlarge the text of a book with a smalll font size. Academic Gains: – Keeps students from misinterpreting the meaning of a text due to inability to identify or see words, which will increase student comprehension. Barriers – Teachers would need several of these devices if they have more than one student that has poor eyesight or visual impairments.

Braille Translation Devices Definition Used to translate screen words and formatting into readable braille Scenario: – A teacher could use a braille translation device to convert content on a screen into braille so all students, no matter their eyesight abilities, could read the same content. Academic Gains: – Blind students will be able to read a wider variety of books/articles Barriers – Students without visual impairments may think the teacher is being impartial by giving blind students a special type of text – Blind students may not be able to read the braille as fast as other students read the regular text, causing the blind students to fall behind.

A SSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENTALLY / PHYSI CALLY CHALLENGED

Adaptive Keyboard Definition A keyboard that reduces the strain on the user by alphabetizing the letters Scenario: – An alphabetized keyboard can be used in the classroom so students are able to focus on the task rather than on locating keys. Academic Gains: – Students are able to work faster – Students focus more on tasks than on the process required to complete the tasks. Barriers – Every student in the class would need one if the entire class was given the same assignment

Alternate Communication Devices Definition A device that helps those with Down syndrome, Autism, and other illnesses communicate easily Scenario: – Using a device that provides a visual interface in the class allows students with disabilities to easily identify what they want to say Academic Gains: – Increases communication skills – Increases depth of conversations Barriers – A screen filled with pictures and words might be more confusing or overwhelming for students – These devices may teach students to rely on outside help when communicating, and thus hinder their ability to communicate when not being assisted.

Adaptive Student Desks Definition For children with neurological impairments, these desks adjust to their needs Scenario: – This type of desk can be used for students that need desks to be adjust in height or if they need adjustable leg stirrups Academic Gains: – Provides a customized and comfortable environment for students to do work – Improved focus Barriers – Other students may see that disabled students get to a special type of desk and feel like they too should receive special treatment – Distraction for other students – Disabled students may feel like their disabilities are being put on display

A SSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR THE DEAF & HARD OF HEARING

Personal Amplification Device Definition An audio enhancer that directly increases the sound of noise around the user Scenario: – A teacher could give this to students with deafness or hearing difficulties when lecturing to improve their hearing quality Academic Gains: – Students are able to hear instruction, therefore they will be able to understand lessons and assignments. Barriers – Students may cut the devices off when they do not want to listen – Teachers may not be able to tell when the device is turned off/on

Audio/Visual Communication Devices Definition Combines residual hearing with closer views of mouth movement to enhance understanding Scenario: – Giving a student with a hearing disability a screen with a close-up view of the teachers mouth Academic Gains: – Increases understanding of words, therefore, there is an increase in comprehension of instruction; Barriers – May be a distraction for other students

Voice To Text Translation Definition A software device that captures spoken words and translates it into readable text on a screen Scenario: – A teachers could use this device to communicate with deaf students (especially if teachers do not know sign language) Academic Gains: – Students can communicate with more than just those that know sign language Barriers – Deaf individuals would not be able to translate their spoken words to text most likely because the device may not be able to identify the words that are announcing.