Children with specific learning disorders, such as Dyslexia, can use assistive technology to help support them with their challenges and reduce the functional impact of their learning disability. Assistive technology is any item, piece of equipment, software program, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of those with disabilities. It’s a type of accommodation that involves tools. It can help children with specific learning disorders learn, communicate and function better. It can be used to help with skill areas such as writing, spelling, reading and mathematics. Assistive technology can be high-tech, such as a computer or electronic device, or low-tech such as using adaptive paper, a slope board or a pencil grip.
Some examples of high tech assistive technology that can be particularly helpful for children with specific learning disorders, such as Dyslexia and Dysgraphia, include:
Speech to Text:
Enables human speech to be converted automatically into text e.g. Microsoft Dictate
Text to Speech:
Allows any electronic text to be read aloud by a computer or mobile device e.g. Microsoft Immersive Reader
Reading Pen:
Allows text to be scanned from print, such as a book, and converted into voice e.g. C-Pen
Audiobooks:
An audio recording of a book being read aloud, usually by a human voice e.g. Audible
Electronic Spell Checkers:
Handheld portable devices that use phonetic patterns to suggest words for those who have difficulties with spelling
Computers and tablets:
Provide an interactive learning experience. They can be used for word processing allowing text to be displayed on a screen with helpful features such as editor function to check spelling and grammar. There are also many apps that can be used with computers and tablets to support children across a range of learning areas.
Butterfly Psychology for Kids conduct assessments that can identify and diagnose specific learning disorders. Recommendations are made in the psychology report that is provided to support a child with their specific learning disorder which include a range of assistive technology options. For further information here.
Information adapted from:
Assistive Technology Industry Association www.atia.org
Auspeld: What are Some Examples of Assistive Technology www.auspeld.org.au
Understood: What is Assistive Technology www.understood.org
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