Assistive Technology (AT) & Dyslexia

Assistive Technology (AT) & Dyslexia

Assistive Technology, otherwise known as (AT) can significantly help people with dyslexia and other learning difficulties.

What is Assisted Technology (AT)?

The technology required to help a student has assisted technology (AT), i.e., it assists the student in their studies.

According to the British Assistive Technology Association (BATA), “Assistive technology is any product or service that maintains or improves the ability of individuals with disabilities or impairments to communicate, learn and live independent, fulfilling, and productive lives.”[i]

If the student has a well-constructed programme, AT has a prominent role. The appropriate AT will focus on that particular student’s needs rather than giving them a label. This will help students achieve by placing them on a level playing field with their peers and helping them succeed in their studies.

Assistive Technology (AT) for Students

Assistive Technology is provided for each student’s needs, and I can only mention a few.   Most of the software suggestions below can be loaded onto iPads, laptops etc. and can help students write an article or essay while assisting them in the best way possible. While a lot is available today, finding the appropriate software for each student’s needs is essential, or you may waste your money.

Programmes for maths include:

1.          Numbershark – Version 5
2.          Nessy Maths
3.          Snap Type App.
4.          Voice Recognition Software

1       Numbershark 5 £102.00

This programme has been around for years and has always had regular updates. It is excellent software, so don’t let the price put you off; it is worth it. Numbershark reinforces numeracy and improves the understanding and use of numbers.
NumberShark

2       Nessy Maths

The Nessy programmes are multisensory and fun, teaching kids the valuable skills they need to succeed in reading, spelling, writing and maths.
Nessy

3       ‘Snap Type App.’

Snap Type – A simple way to complete any worksheet, even maths worksheets, on your iPad or computer. Please take a photo of the homework, fill it in with a stylus or type the answers.

This excellent tool helps students even when their handwriting holds them back.
SnapType App

4       Voice Recognition Software (VRS.)

‘Dragon Home Speaking Home Version 13’. Just speak into the microphone, and it will type whatever you say with 99% accuracy. I don’t think anyone should be without this software, especially struggling students.
Shop Nuance

[i] http://www.bataonline.org/further-assistive-technology-definition