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Assistive technology

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Wii System for Classroom. Library Studies - WiiU and education. The Special Needs iPad & App Series. Click on the image to view full graphic (source: Mashable.com) In only one year the Apple iPad has revolutionized the tech industry. 15 Million iPads have been sold and estimates are that within the next 3 years over 115 million tablets will be shipped.

The Special Needs iPad & App Series

When the iPad was launched there was a lot of talk of what exactly it would be used for. Movies, games, school work and social networking where all mentioned as possibilities. What no one foresaw including Steve Jobs himself was the use of the iPad for special education. One year later dozens if not hundreds of applications have been created that enhance the quality of life for individuals with all types of disabilities. To try and make sense of all of this we have put together a nine part series on the iPad and useful applications. In this series we will try and provide guidance and resources that will make it easier for those looking for more information about the iPad, new apps and special education. Educational iPad Apps - A4CWSN.com.

About UDL. Adaptive Technology. By Sheryl Burgstahler, Ph.D.

Adaptive Technology

(Adapted from the publication Working Together: People with Disabilities and Computer Technology) Case Study | FAQ | Resources Computers are essential tools in all academic studies. They can enhance the independence, productivity, and capabilities of people with disabilities. Computers can benefit people with low vision, blindness, speech and hearing impairments, learning disabilities, mobility, and health impairments. Each of these impairments poses challenges to accessing and using a standard computer and electronic resources. Access to computers for students with disabilities involves two major issues: access to the computers themselves and access to electronic resources such as word processors, spreadsheets, and the World Wide Web.

Adaptive (or, assistive) hardware and software can facilitate computer access for people with disabilities. BlindnessMost individuals who are blind can use a standard keyboard. Input Output. Accessible Books and Periodicals for Readers with Print Disabilities - Bookshare - Accessible Books for Individuals with Print Disabilities.

Assistive Technology Tools: Writing. There is a wide range of assistive technology (AT) tools available to help students who struggle with writing.

Assistive Technology Tools: Writing

Some of these tools help students circumvent the actual physical task of writing, while others facilitate proper spelling, punctuation, grammar, word usage, and organization. AT tools that assist with writing fall into several categories: Abbreviation expanders Used with word processing, these software programs allow a user to create, store, and re-use abbreviations for frequently-used words or phrases. This can save the user keystrokes and ensure proper spelling of words and phrases he has coded as abbreviations. How can assistive technology be integrated into the curriculum? How can assistive technology be integrated into the curriculum?

How can assistive technology be integrated into the curriculum?

To access any curriculum, students need to be able to interact with the information and material provided. For any student, the motivation and ability to interact depends on a number of factors. A student with cognitive, sensory or physical disabilities faces barriers to interaction that require special supports. The effective use of assistive technology can be the key to overcoming barriers that are beyond a student’s control. When assistive technology is functionally integrated into the classroom, a student’s motivation can be fully realized and he or she can be challenged by the curriculum in a positive way. Technology in the Classroom: Amplified Classrooms Help Education. Successful Campus-wide AT Implementations Webinar - Texthelp. Tips for the One iPad Classroom, and a Free iPad Rules Download! Do you have an iPad in your classroom?

Tips for the One iPad Classroom, and a Free iPad Rules Download!

Are you wondering how you can make use of it when there is only one device for all of your students to share? Well, never fear, I have tons of ideas for you right here, and a “Rules for the iPad” free download, too! And for those of you that may be new to my blog, this post focuses on using the iPad in the young children’s classroom, such as Pre-K, Kindergarten, First Grade, etc.

Before you get started using the iPad in any manner, make your expectations on how to use the device clear. Here are my rules for the iPad. Rules for the iPad: Carry the iPad with two hands. Sit down while using the iPad. Hold the iPad from the base, not the cover.

Apps to consider

Library site examples AT. AT official sites. Blogs and articles AT. iPad usage for the blind. iPads and Tablets in Education. iPad Apps for the Low Vision Population. Types of Assistive Technology Products. Assistive technology products are designed to provide additional accessibility to individuals who have physical or cognitive difficulties, impairments, and disabilities.

Types of Assistive Technology Products

When selecting assistive technology products, it is crucial to find products that are compatible with the computer operating system and programs on the particular computer being used. Below are descriptions of the various types of assistive technology products that are currently available on the market today. You may also want to use a tool to identify the right type of assistive technology that might be useful. Alternative input devices allow individuals to control their computers through means other than a standard keyboard or pointing device. Examples include: Alternative keyboards—featuring larger- or smaller-than-standard keys or keyboards, alternative key configurations, and keyboards for use with one hand. Braille embossers transfer computer generated text into embossed Braille output.

Peachy speech. Dragon - Dragon NaturallySpeaking. Text to Speech Reader, Literacy Software.