Assistive Technology for Academics
Contents:
- Expanded Keyboards
- Keyboard Shortcuts
- Adapted Typing Programs
- Electronic Graphic Organizers
- Talking Word Processors
Expanded Keyboards
They allow direct keyboard access to those who can’t readily access standard keyboard and range from simple to very sophisticated. Some can be customized for users.
IntelliKeys® USB
- Flat, pressure sensitive keyboard
- Settings can be customized
- Programmable
- Customize appearance and function
- Two switch jacks
- Standard keyboard always available
- dard overlays
- Large, well spaced, high contrast colors
- Numbers, mouse, ABC & Qwerty layouts
- Activity exchange
IntelliKeys® resource information
- Mac and Windows compatible
- Mac OS 8.6, 9.x, 10.1 or higher
- Windows 98, ME, 2000, XP
- Cost $395
- 45 day trial version of Overlay Maker
- Website: www.intellitools.com
- Need Overlay Maker 3
Keyboard Shortcuts
These combinations of simultaneous key presses perform functions designed to save time and increase efficiency. Typically, shortcuts use a combination of a modifier key and other key(s). They are alternatives to using a mouse or touchpad. Shortcuts are faster than using dropdown menus, although learners need to memorize them for best efficiency. Often, they are more easily used than dropdown menus by those with physical challenges.
Resources for shortcuts (and more) available at:
www.microsoft.com
- Go to support and search for “accessibility”
- http://www.microsoft.com/enable/
www.Apple.com
- Go to support and search for “universal access”
- http://www.apple.com/macosx/universal-access/
Adapted Typing Programs
Five Finger Typist
- Typing tutor program for one handed typists—right or left handed
- Uses standard Qwerty keyboard
- Series of exercises teaches keystrokes
- Animated hand graphic on screen
- Customize options
- t in data tracking of progress
- Suitable for anyone who wants to learn keyboarding with one hand
Five Finger Typist resource information
- Mac and Windows compatible
- Windows XP, ME, 2000, NT4, 95*
- Mac 8.6 or higher
- Cost $85
- Website: http://www.typeonehand.com/
- Also available through DynaVox Mayer-Johnson. as well as Technology for Education, Inc.
Electronic Graphic Organizers
These visual learning tools help users plan and organize ideas and information.
Inspiration
- Visualize ideas, concepts, relationships
- Diagram view > Outline view
- grated word guide
- Spell checker
- Transfer work into word processor or create own website
- 120+ templates in various subject areas
- Grades 6+
Inspiration resource information
- 30-day free download available
- Mac or Windows versions
- http://www.inspiration.com/
Kidspiration
- Combination of visual representation, text outlines, and speech
- Categorize and group ideas
- Picture view > Writing view
- Works with word processing programs
- K–5 learners
Kidspiration resource information
- 30-day free download available
- Mac or Windows versions
- http://www.inspiration.com/Kidspiration
Talking Word Processors
They provide auditory feedback to users as they read or write. Comprehension, writing quality, and writing quantity are enhanced by using multiple learning modes. They also help increase writing independence.
Write:OutLoud
- Talking toolbar
- Franklin dictionary
- Franklin spell checker
- Homonym checker
- Data collection to monitor progress
Write:OutLoud resource information
- 1st–12th grade reading level
- 3rd–8th grade interest level
- Website: www.donjohnston.com
Clicker 5
Students use this to create multimedia presentations.
- Talking word processor
- Extensive picture library
- Range of accessibility options
Clicker5 resource information
- Windows 98, ME, NT, 2000, XP
- Mac OS X 10.2.8
- Website: www.cricksoft.com
Adapted from:
A presentation at the 2006 conference: Taking your technology on vacation: Assistive Technology for Students with Brain Injury by Diana Pierce, Sherri Mican & Patricia Sublette (2006) in Seaside, Oregon.
