Assistive Technology Options Matrix
Consult with your Related Service Provider (OTs for writing, SLP for communication) if there are direct services or consult services that are being provided to the student.
Descriptions for Common Assistive Technology Options
DEVICES & APPS
A Forte is a keyboarding device which allows students to compose work via typing with supports such as text to speech and word prediction with minimal distractions. Some typing instruction and math instruction is also available. Files are transferred to a PC to print. Older similar devices were known as fusions, alpha smarts, or calcuscribes
iPads (or iDevices) are available in full, mini, and touch sizes. They can be equipped with durable cases or keyboard cases. A wide variety of apps are available to support nearly any skill. All newer iPads come with speech recognition built into the device. Speech recognition (or speech to text) does not require voice training on an iPad but it does require an internet connection. iDevices CAN print directly to Lexmark and Ricoh networked printers with the appropriate app and IP Address.
GoTalk NOW is the entry-level augmentative communication app available for the iPad or iPad mini. GoTalk Now is very quick and easy to use and edit for simple communication, visual schedules, and interactive books with options for video and music and easy sharing between devices. It is a great way to create visual communication resources and print them out.
Proloquo2Go is the premium augmentative communication app available for any iDevice. Proloquo fosters language development through research-based vocabulary libraries, core word availability, and grammar popups.
COMPUTER-BASED SOFTWARE
Bookshare is a free resource at Bookshare.org which allows students who qualify for services in reading to access a nearly unlimited quantity of novels and textbooks for all age ranges and skill levels. These electronic books can be read out loud with word-by-word highlighting via the free Bookshare Web Reader. Books may also be read on mobile devices.
Kurzweil is software that can be installed on most computers, but it is not available on iPads. Kurzweil is a fully featured reading and writing support program with text to speech, word prediction, outlining, and graphic organizers. It does not have speech recognition. Kurzweil does have a learning curve, but there are many training videos available.
Dragon is the premium speech recognition software which may be installed on a computer. Voice training is required to use Dragon effectively on a PC, but it does not require an internet connection.