The term “assistive technology” has usually been applied to computer hardware and software and electronic devices. However, many AT tools are now available on the Internet. AT tools that support kids with LD include:
Abbreviation expanders
- HandiWord, Microsystems Software, Inc. 800-828-2600
- EZ Keys for Windows, Words+, Inc.
- Gus! Access Keyboard, Gus Communications, Inc.
- TypeIt4Me (Shareware)
- Instant Text, Textware Solutions
- ActiveWords
- Penfriend
Alternative keyboards
Audio books and publications
- Audible.com
- Bookshare
- Kurzweil 3000™ Literacy and Reading Programs
- Recorded Books on PlayAway
- Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB&D)
Electronic math work sheets
Freeform database software
Graphic organizers and outlining
Information/data managers
- Parrot VoiceMate
- Franklin (various hand-held organizers)
- Memo to Me
- Ms. Reminder Time Manager
- Palm
- Watch Minder
Optical character recognition
Personal FM listening systems
- Easy Listener
- Hearing Helper, Williams Sound
- The Personal Assistive Listening System (model AT-216) Comteck Communications
Portable word processors
Proofreading programs
Speech-recognition programs
- Dragon Naturally Speaking
- ViaVoice
- iListen
- SpeakQ (integrates multiple AT techniques)
Speech synthesizers/screen readers
- aspireReader™
- ClassMate Reader
- Read and Write Gold (integrates multiple AT techniques)
- Read and Write Gold Mobile
- Write:OutLoud®
Talking calculators
- Independent Living Aids (various talking calculators)
- MaxiAids (various talking calculators)
- AbleData (various talking calculators)
Talking spell checkers and electronic dictionaries
- Franklin Electronic Publishers – spelling and reference tools
- Clever Keys – free dictionaries and thesaurus online
- WordWeb Pro – dictionary and thesaurus
- Ginger – contextual spell and grammar checker
Variable-speed tape recorders
- Independent Living Aids
- MaxiAids (various recorders)
- Handi-Cassette
Word-prediction programs
- Aurora Suite
- Co:Writer SOLO
- EZ Keys for Windows, Words+, Inc
- SpeakQ (integrates multiple AT techniques)
- TextHelp, Read and Write Gold (integrates multiple AT techniques)
- WordQ, Quillsoft
Your child’s Profile
Here are several factors to consider when evaluating AT products for your child:
- What are her specific needs and challenges? In what academic skill areas does she struggle?
- What are her strengths? AT should utilize your child’s abilities to help compensate for her disability.
- What is her interest, skill and experience in using technology? In what settings and situations will she use the AT tool? AT can help a child with LD function better at school as well as in other settings such as home, work, social gatherings and recreational events.
ref: http://www.readingrockets.org