Examples of AT

Examples of AT

Assistive Technology is redefining what is possible for people with a various range of cognitive/ learning, print, and physical abilities and disabilities, be it in the home, classroom, workplace and/or community. Assistive Technology is enabling all individuals, of all ages, including those with disabilities, to be more Independent, Self-Confident, Productive and better included in every day life, education, employment and living. View and Download our Free PDF Handout- Common AT Solutions.

Assistive Technology can be anything light-tech or high-tech, modified or adapted, which is used to help an individual perform some task of daily living. The term Assistive Technology encompasses such a broad range including devices (computer/laptop, tablets, iPads, AAC devices), software (text to speech, voice recognition, magnification, screen reading), FREE Built-In Accessibility Features in everyday technologies, Apps & Extensions, adjustable Furniture/ desks, adaptive keyboards and mice, adapted writing tools, Walking assistance, ramps, grab bars, environmental controls, eye gaze, switches, and so much more! Contact us today for demonstrations, loans or training on various AT options, including the ones listed on our PDF handout and below.

Literacy Software, Apps & Extensions

Literacy support tools are offered as software, apps and extensions in the Chrome browser, to utilize on a laptop (Mac or Windows/PC) or Chromebook. We provide training and recommendations for Literacy Support technologies from various companies, including Texthelp, Don Johnston, Cricksoft, Bookshare, Learning Ally, and others.

• Comprehensive Literacy support tools with features such as Text-to-Speech with highlighting while reading on the internet, book or a document.
• Word Prediction while typing.
• Study skills for organization and research.
• Scanning Documents & Books with OCR & highlighting.
• Fact-Mapping and Brainstorming.
• Simplifying reading passages.
• Dictionary and vocabulary support.
• Grammar Support.
• Writing with word banks and picture support.

E-Books and Apps

There are several Apps for accessing digital books on an iPhone/iPad, Android Phone or tablet, Chromebook or laptop, such as Voice Dream Reader Dolphin Easy Reader, and iBooks, as well as many free e-book and audiobook options. Read textbooks for school or books for pleasure. Apps can be utilized with accessibility features such as Text to Speech, Voice-Over, Zoom/ Magnification, Inverted Colors/ High Contrast, Highlighting, Definitions, Annotations, Font style and color selection, large text, etc.

There are iPad, iPhone & Android Apps for all Abilities and Disabilities, to support all Subjects of Learning/ Instruction Across Curriculum (Math, Reading, Writing, Social Studies, Science), as well as Literacy, Executive Function, AAC (communication), mobility (GPS), Studying, Organization and Time Management, Reminders, Scheduling, etc.

We provide consultation and training on how to use apps across all environments to support activities and skills for education, employment, home & community.

Google Chrome Apps & Extensions

Many schools are “Going Google” and implementing free and low cost apps and extensions available in the Chrome Browser, on Chromebooks as well as laptops, desktops, the surface Pro and other devices. Google Chrome apps provide support for all learners with specific options to support diverse learners and struggling students with literacy, executive function, math, reading and writing, and so much more!

Voice Recognition Software and Free/ Built-in Speech to Text Options

Use your voice to control everything. Speech-to-Text software, apps & built-in accessibility features for individuals who are physically unable to access a computer or tablet, or may have a learning disability or print disability. Speech recognition/ speech to text can be utilized to access all features of a device for reading, navigating, typing, research, sending email and texts, completing work, etc. It can also be used for environmental controls (Smart Home technology) in one’s home environment, for lights, television, music,  appliances, etc. Speech recognition can also support individuals who may struggle with spelling and grammar. (FREE Speech to Text Options are available built-in to devices as well as Apps and extensions).

Free Text-To-Speech Options

If you simply need just Text-to-Speech while navigating online or typing a paper, there are MANY free options, including built-in accessibility features on your phone or laptop, and free tools such as Natural Reader and Chrome extensions.

iPad, iPhone & Android Apps

Apps for Learning, Literacy, Engagement, Productivity, Inclusion; Apps for Working/ Employment, Apps for Communicating, Magnification and Screen Reading, Apps for Navigating,  organization, studying, reminding, scheduling, reading, completing assignments, focus and attention, mindfulness, anxiety support, developing projects, data collection and More. Apps encourage participation, efficiency, inclusion, Learning and exploration.

Accessibility Settings and other Built-In Accessibility Options

Many people are unaware of what their own phone can do other than text or make calls! Assistive Technology is already in the hands of everyone on a daily basis, built into our phones, tablets and laptops that we use everyday, but are capable of supporting users so much more! Accessibility settings such as text to speech, screen reading, magnification, touch accommodations, word prediction, switch access and more. Ask us about consultation and training on what you already have available in your pocket, backpack or briefcase that can support you immediately!

Literacy Software Options

Software to support the reading, writing, and research process, with features such as word banks, word prediction, sentence prompts, text to speech, study skills, mind-mapping and organizational tools, speech to text, and more. Write Online, Clicker Writer, Read and Write, Dragon, Co-Writer, Kurzweil, and other software options for laptops and desktops, Mac and Windows. We will compare free options versus paid options with more robust/ personalized features for your specific needs.

Captions, Real Time Captioning, Video Captioning, Captions for Lectures, Captions for television and mobile devices

To assist individuals who are hearing impaired to access the presented lecture, video, material, etc.

Magnification Software, Hardware, Apps, & Accessibility features

AT to zoom text to magnify your computer, phone or tablet screen, invert text colors and increase contrast, increase mouse and cursor sizes. AT to Magnify Documents and Books, magnify the Whiteboard  to be able to see instruction or at a meeting, Take photos to review later, screen reading built-in, and more options for individuals who are visually impaired, or losing sight over time.  Magnification options are available for use in the community, such as reading bus schedules or signs, menus, grocery items, mail and utilizing for work as well as in the classroom.

Screen Readers

For individuals who are Blind or low vision and need Voice Over or screen reading options and keyboard shortcuts to access the internet, email, and other computer applications for communication, employment, education, research, productivity, etc. Built-In Voice Over/ Screen reading options are available for phones, tablets and computers, as well as free software. There are several paid software options, all with pros and cons depending on your needs. JAWS, Zoomtext, MAGIC, and NVDA are a few examples.

Smart Pen and Note Taking Technologies and Apps

Record Audio and Sync Notes. For use during class or a meeting. Record audio and get back to a specific part of the lecture or meeting instantly. Easily import photos, links, videos, and more. Excellent for note taking and studying. Utilized by individuals who cannot take lengthy notes and listen/ comprehend/ process simultaneously, as well as those with spelling or grammar difficulties, and physical difficulties with handwriting. Bookmark important references, upload visual of notes to computer as well as the audio, share notes and audio with others quickly, add to notes later as you listen to audio.

Refreshable Braille Displays

Utilized by individuals who are Blind and Read Braille. Access all information on the computer, iPad, or iphone by connecting to a refreshable Braille display, and having instant, real-time, refreshable Braille to access the information that is presented on the screen. Refreshable Braille displays offer access to the internet, software, documents, research, email, texting, textbooks, assignments or work, ebooks, iphones, iPads, apps and more in real-time braille to read, as well as the ability to type using the braille keyboard keys.

Communication Boards

Communication and Visual Schedule Boards, for individuals to communicate, and to utilize for behavior management, daily schedules, and organization. Communication boards can be hand-made with symbols or photos, and can also be digital and incorporated on an AAC device or iPad for communication. There are many free and paid software programs, apps and websites  to help you create visual schedules and communication books.

Environmental Controls and Smart Home Technology for the Home and Workplace

Supporting Individuals with limited physical mobility to control things in their environment using their voice, eye gaze, touch screens, large switch access and apps.

The systems allow total control of everyday functions such as opening a door, closing a window or answering the phone, as well as turning on/ off lights and running appliances.

It is also possible to control media and entertainment equipment such as television, music, radio, dvd, iPod as well as health/ safety systems such as nurse call and pagers, telephone, security systems and alerts, recline chairs and beds, etc.

Mind Mapping, Brainstorming & Graphic Organizers

Many AT options for writing support such as software programs, extensions and Apps for mind mapping and brainstorming to organize thoughts. These tools offer the ability to brainstorm ideas, outline, and create visual templates and study guides to use for writing a paper, creating a project, or studying for a test. Others may use the tools for preparing for a meeting, or to use as a presentation visual. All of these AT tools support all individuals, including those who experience challenges with executive functioning skills.

Adapted Technology and Workstations

Also referred to as adaptive technology by some, and other adjustable equipment or furniture for access, seating, ergonomic support or mobility may be considered for a student or adult individual. Adjustable monitors, keyboards, keyboard trays, adaptive mice, large-font keyboards, adjustable tables and chairs, modifications and adaptations to wheelchairs and mobility equipment. All aspects of equal access and proper ergonomics are considered.

Alternative Keyboards and On-Screen Keyboards

Large Font Keyboards with easy to see keys, one-handed keyboards, keyguards and guides for the iPad, laptop, desktops and AAC devices. Apps for customizable on-screen keyboards for computers and tablets, keyboard overlays, bluetooth wireless keyboards, backlit keyboards, and more.

Switch Access

For Individuals with limited physical access. If an individual can consistently move one part of their body- their chin, a finger, a knee, a toe, their head etc., they can use an adapted switch to access the computer, an iPad, an AAC device for communicating,  and other devices such as a phone or appliances. Scanning software may be utilized with the switch for access. Switches can also be utilized for mobility. There are Bluetooth options for switches, as well as direct connect switches. There are also sip-puff switches available, proximity and light touch switches, large and small switches, joystick switches, trackpad and others.

Trackball and Joystick Mouse

There are many types of trackball mice or joystick options for mouse control, for individuals with physical access challenges, who may not be able to use a standard computer mouse. Trackball mice are also used for ergonomic purposes, to avoid strain and injury.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (A.A.C.)

AAC devices (dedicated devices and/or iPad apps ) may be touch-screen/direct select, switch access,  head control or eye-gaze activated. Eye-gaze and gead control can also be utilized for computer access and environmental controls, in addition to communication.

AT for Deaf and Hard of Hearing

For those who are hard of hearing to be able to listen to a lecture or event, or to participate at work or in the community. Amplification systems, captioning, bone conducting headphones and technologies, sign language apps, and more.

Wearable Technology

Smart watches and wearable technologies for reminders, alerts, health monitoring and communication, navigation and tracking, calling and texting and more.