Assistive Technology
Case Studies
Providing assistive technology to learners doesn't always have to be expensive, complicated, or high-tech. In the following 2 case studies, I will be providing low-tech options to aid learners, with examples of tools, and links for more information.
Case Studies:
Learner # 2
The student is in Grade 9. She is reading at grade level, but her writing is illegible. She does not qualify for an SEA-funded device and her family cannot afford one. She needs to be able to write a page legibly.
Suggested AT to Support
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Adaptive Pencil Grips and Holders
According to eSpecialNeeds.com, “Handwriting grips and holders help individuals with special needs write clearly and legibly. Individuals with fine motor skill problems typically struggle to maintain an adequate grip on pencils and other writing utensils. Using pencil grips and similar aids, they can achieve better hand positioning and movement while they write, resulting in improved handwriting.”
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Full Writing Page Guide
Writing guides can help make printing more legible. MaxiAids.com advertises one which claims that "[students will] enjoy easier writing as the template guides [them], and those who are reading [their] letters and notes will appreciate the neater, clearer results!”
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Learner # 4
Student is in Grade 7. They are having vision issues and are trying out prescription glasses for the first time. Recently, they have been struggling with organization because of their new visual challenges. They need to be able to keep an organized notebook and binder to be successful.
Suggested AT to Support
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High-Contrast / Large Format / Clear Fonts
Print material in high-contrast, large format (if magnification helps) with clear easy to read fonts can be helpful for students with visual impairments.
In an article titled "My Eight Favorite Free Fonts for Print Disabilities," Veroniiiica informs readers of the importance of font choice. Her list of 8 are as follows:
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Arial
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Helvetica
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Bebas Neue
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Calibri
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APHont
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Comic Sans
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Lavanderia
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OpenDyslexic
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Trays
Trays can be used to help define the student's work space as well as keep objects from rolling away. A "Hands ON" kit is also available through APH that is contains sturdy molded plastic trays with different dividers and sections to encourage sorting, categorizing and exploration. Lunch trays can be used to define space. Place the trays on shelf liner or stick nonskid pads to the back to minimize the tray sliding around the table surface.
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