Module 16: Assistive Technology

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Module 16 Assistive Technology

• Session 5 Assistive Technology for Writing
  Elizabeth Marchu, Assistive Technology
  SpecialistiTech CenterParents Helping
  ParentsSan Jose, CA

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AT for Writing Assists Students With

• Orthopedic, Sensory Motor issues
• Physical ability to produce written language
• Written Expression
• Cognitive ability to put words together in
  coherent, meaningful fashion

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Students who need AT for writing may include

• Students who have difficulty
• writing for a long period of time due to fatigue.
• writing legibly
• getting their thoughts out on paper.
• organizing their thoughts logically.
• learning through auditory channels.

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A Continuum of Considerations of AT for Writing
Mechanics

• Regular pen or pencil
• Pencil or pen with adapted grip
• Adapted paper (e.g. raised line, highlighted
  lines)
• Slant board to create slanted writing surface
• Typewriter
• Portable notetaker that interfaces with computer
• Computer with word processing software
• Word prediction/abbreviation expansion software
  for efficiency
• Voice Recognition software
• (Adapted by ATTO from WATI, 1998)

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Low Tech

• Writing guides
• Raised line paper
• Bold line paper
• Bright lines paper
• Pencil grips
• Slant boards
• Thick pencils

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How Computers Change the Writing Process

• Handwriting problems disappear.
• Proofreading is easier because text is more
  legible.
• Students experience less frustration with the
  tool's limitations.
• Complete re-writes are unnecessary.
• Students produce less cramped vocabulary (and
  thinking) based on fear of making mistakes.
• Spelling and mechanics can be de-emphasized and
  moved to the end of the writing process.
• Organization can be dealt with easily by cutting
  and pasting and/or using outlining programs.
• Richard Wandeman, 1990

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High Tech Devices/ Software

• Onscreen Keyboard
• Larger keyboard with keyguards
• Word Processor with speech output
• Graphic organizers
• Word prediction
• Portable word processors
• Voice recognition software

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Onscreen Keyboards

• Reach Interface Author
• Softype v. 4.5
• Onscreen v. 3.75
• GUS Access keyboard
• Discover Screen
• Screen Doors 2000

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Talking Word Processors

• Read Write Standard
• The Talking Word Processor
• Read Write Gold
• Intellitalk III
• Kurzweil 3000
• Write Outloud
• Type Talk
• e Reader

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Word Prediction Software

• Co- Writer 4000
• EZ Keys
• Gus! Word Prediction
• Word Q

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Graphic Organizers

• Spark Space
• Inspiration
• Draftbuilder

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Keyboards

• Ergonomic keyboards
• Large Keys keyboard
• One handed keyboards
• Alternative keyboards