KATE

Technology for Special Needs Students

Instructional Illuminations

Assistive Technology can provide students with special needs the tools necessary to overcome challenges they face when using technology in the classroom. There are several different types of hardware and software available to help students achieve success when using technology. Some examples of accessibility aides include, but are not limited to, screen readers, talking web browsers, printed text readers, Braille translators, screen magnifiers, special computer keyboards and speech recognition software.

By using these assistive technologies, students with special needs will be able to fully participate in classroom activities involving technology. Speech recognition allows students who are unable to write their thoughts down on paper to communicate through dictation. Screen readers allow students who have sight disabilities to use their auditory skills to navigate through the various windows and menus. Special keyboards allow students to select keys using pointing methods such as a foot operated mouse, head mounted pointing devices, and eye tracking systems.

A computer can be a very interesting and adaptable assistive technology device. With the right software or hardware, students with special needs can effectively communicate with teachers and peers in the classroom.

Related Links

• Assistive Technology Solutions - The Assistive Technology Solutions website provides answers to frequently asked questions about assistive technology devices.
• Adaptive Computer Products - This website provides guides to adaptive technologies, input devices, speech recognition/voice controlled systems, products for the blind/visually impaired, as well as computer software.
• Gnome Accessiblity Project - Provides examples of different assistive technologies and the different functions they all provide students will disabilities.
• Mircosoft - This website provides assistive technology tutorials and product information for the different versions of Microsoft Windows.
• Assistive Technology - This website provides information on the different types of screen readers that are available.