Introduction

Adaptive/Assistive Technologies

WELCOME!

Description of Question/Project: What types of adaptive and assistive technologies are available in schools (elementary through college) to help aid students in need? The school systems in Indianapolis that I received information from and took pictures of their technologies include Warren Twp., Perry Twp., Franklin Twp., IUPUI Adaptive Education Services (Univ. Library), and Rise Special Services

Difference Between Assistive and Adaptive Technologies: "Assistive technology is defined as any item, piece of equipment, or system of products that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Adaptive technology aids users by adapting content or user responses into a medium appropriate for the user. For example, screen readers 'adapt' conventional text by converting it into content spoken by a synthetic voice, thereby making standard text accessible to blind students" (3).

List of Technologies: Closed Circuit Television (CCTV), ZoomText Extra, Sorenson Videophone, Roll-Up Keyboard, Speech Recognition, AlphaSmart, FRS Talking Calculator, Trackball Mouse, and Adaptive Ring-Pen

Disabilities Addressed:

• Low Vision/Blind
• Hard-of-Hearing/Deaf
• Learning Disability: Hyper-Sensitive to Noise
• Learning Disability: Dyslexia
• Learning Disability: Dysgraphia
• Arthritis
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Limited Motion/Lack of Fine Motor Skills

Ideas for Future Research: Aside from adding other technologies to this site, I'd like to expand it to address technologies that aid ESL and ENL students. I am already looking into the next technology software: The Rosetta Stone (4).

Works Cited

Works Cited

• 1. IUPUI Adaptive Educational Services. "Adaptive Technology." <http://www.iupui.edu/~sldweb/aes/about/learning-center.html>

• 2. University of Toronto Adaptive Technology Resource Centre. "Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)." <http://www.utoronto.ca/atrc/reference/tech/cctv.html>

• 3. Education World. "Assistive Technology Helps All Kids Learn." Bridge Multimedia. <http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech220.shtml>

• 4. Rosetta Stone Language Learning Success. <http://www.rosettastone.com/en/>

• 5. Peck, Alec and Mark Uslan. "How Closed-Circuit Television Users Develop Computer Vision Syndrome." Access World. American Foundation for the Blind. July 2001. <http://www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw020405>

• 6. Howarth, Lisa. "ZoomText Xtra Level 2." Department of Special Education at The College of New Jersey. 2002. <http://www.tcnj.edu/~technj/2002/ZoomText.htm>

• 7. Sorenson Communications. <http://sorenson.com/>

• 8. Burgstahler, Sheryl. "Working Together: People with Disabilities and Computer Technology." DO-IT University of Washington. 1992. <http://www.washington.edu/doit/Brochures/Technology/wtcomp.html>

• 9. OpAmerica. "The New & Improved Super Kool Keyboard." <http://www.opamerica.com/product_info.php/products_id/782>

• 10. MSN Encarta. "Speech Recognition." <http://encarta.msn.com/dictionary_1861711497/speech_recognition.html>

• 11. Frank, Kit. "Assistive Technology in the Schools." TST Boces. April 10, 2006. <http://setrc.org/moodle/file.php/1/ppt/AT.ppt>

• 12. Fast Rabbit Software. "Talking Calculator." <http://fastrabbitsoftware.com/talking_calculator.htm>

• 13. Key Tools. "Big Track." <http://oldkeytools.bamroberts.com/mice/bigtrack_oversized_bright_large_trackball_for_kids.asp>

• 14. RANDEE Corporation. "Ring-Pen." <http://www.ringpen.com/whyringpen.html>

Adaptive Ring-Pen (Hardware)

Adaptive Ring-Pen

http://www.ringpen.com/whyringpen.html

Description of Technology: An ergonomically designed pen with a hole in the middle. Pen controlled mainly by thumb and index finger.

Features: Center of gravity is just below the hole. Pen allows for more rapid writing and reduces hand soreness and cramping (14). Comes with your choice of color. User manual and tips on how to use the Ring-Pen are accessible from their website.

Manufacturer: No Grip Ring-Pen by Grandee Corporation

Users/Benefits: Helps users with arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and "poor fine motor skills" (14). Pen is recommended for anyone who does a large deal of writing. Since you do not use your middle finger with this pen, the potential for getting calluses or blisters is low (14).

Issues:I have not tried this pen myself; if you are used to using a regular pencil or pen, I have a feeling it may take some time getting used to the Ring-Pen.

Cost: $7.95

To Learn More: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhGp9_GuVPc

Trackball Mouse (Hardware)

Trackball Mouse

http://oldkeytools.bamroberts.com/mice/bigtrack_oversized_bright_large_trackball_for_kids.asp

Description of Technology: An adapted mouse with a zooming wheel and buttons.

Features:

• Some available with sockets for ability switches (13)
• The trackball can be used with another mouse (USB plug-in)
• Designed for desktops and laptops
• Takes up little room on desk
• Colorful
• Made to "sustain rough handling" (13)

Manufacturers: Logitech, BIGtrack, Microsoft, Kensington, Fellowes Micro Trac, IOGEAR Phaser, X-Arcade, Marble

Users/Benefits: Persons with lack of fine motor skills, carpal tunnel syndrome, or arthritis. "Just a touch from a knee, finger, elbow, toe or foot on the...ball is all it takes to cruise around the computer screen and a tap on one of the...buttons pulls out various other computer functions" (13).

Issues: Since trackballs, unlike a regular mouse, do not come with a computer purchase, they are an extra cost. Prices range from $13 (basic) - $100 (optical).

FRS Talking Calculator (Software)

FRS Talking Calculator

http://www.prescottschools.com/premiervideos/TCalc/Tcalc101.htm

Description of Technology: A downloadable software talking calculator.

Features:

• Large buttons and type
• Voice feedback
• Available for the following systems:

version 1.4.1 for Mac OS X 10.4-10.4.9; version 1.3.2 for Mac OS X 10.2-10.4.9; version 1.2.2 for Mac OS X 10.1; version 1.2.3 for Windows 98 SE, ME, 2000, XP, and Vista

Publisher: Fast Rabbit Software

User/Benefits: "Big buttons are easy targets for students with limited motor skills. Large type on buttons and displays makes reading the calculator easier for students with vision impairment. Voice feedback aides students with vision impairment and benefits students with some types of reading difficulties" (12). FRS offers a free downloadable trial program, and once you purchase the software, use is immediate.

Issues: Must have a computer to download and use software.

Cost: $9.95

Note: While I do not concentrate on portable talking calculators in this blog, they do exist and offer some of the same benefits as talking calculator software programs. Prices range from $10 (basic with clock) - $700 (for scientific talking calculator).

AlphaSmart (Hardware)

AlphaSmart

Description of Technology: A simple word processor with no mouse capability that holds files and interfaces with a computer (11).

Features: Use the "F" keys to store up to eight files. Attaches to a computer using a USB cable and allows for "formatting, printing, and saving" (11). Includes spell check.

Models Available:

• AlphaSmart 3000 ($199)
• Neo-AlphaSmart Upgrade ($249)
  •Larger screen
  •Better font (11)
• Dana-AlphaSmart Upgrade ($350)
  •Easier to see text
  •Includes address, memo pad, datebook
  •Can add Palm programs
  •Uses stylus (11)
• Dana Wireless-AlphaSmart Upgrade ($429)

Users/Benefits: Individuals with difficulties writing by hand (dysgraphia and other learning disabilities). AlphaSmart quickly boots up and is lightweight and portable. It is inexpensive and easy to use and navigate. Comes with rechargeable battery (11).

Issues:

• Only four small lines appear on screen
• Only feature is word processing
• Must be charged once a week (11)

Speech Recognition (Software)

Speech Recognition

Description of Technology: "A system of computer input and control in which the computer can recognize spoken words and transform them into digitized commands or text. With such a system, a computer can be activated and controlled by voice commands or take dictation as input to a word processor or a desktop publishing system" (10).


Features: A dictation and voice command mode. Dictation occurs when the user speaks into the microphone and his or her words appear on the screen. In voice command mode, the object of what a user speaks is to navigate throughout the current program. The software comes with a list of commands or shortcuts to help the user better utilize the program.


Software Available: Microsoft Office Speech Recognition, Dragon Naturally Speaking, Talk It Type It, ViaVoice, iListen (Mac)


Users/Benefits: Individuals with dyslexia and dysgraphia learning disabilities and individuals with arthritis and hand injuries. Microsoft Office Speech Recognition is a free feature part of Microsoft Office Suite software. Voice recognition is fairly easy to learn. Different software accommodates different languages: English, Chinese, Japanese, French, Spanish, German, etc.


Issues:

• Hardware requirements (headset microphone recommended)
• Location (should be in an area with the littlest amount of noise possible)
• Must speak clearly and naturally
• Must put software through training(s) (the more the better)
• You may speak as clearly as possible and the software may still have difficultly understanding a word or phrase you dictate to it.
• Time consuming

Cost: Free-$200

Roll-Up Keyboard (Hardware)

Roll-Up Keyboard

Description of Technology: Keyboard made out of soft, flexible materials, usually rubber, silicone, or polyurethane.


Features:

• Can be rolled up
• Silent
• Lightweight
• Durable
• Flexible
• Spill proof
• Washable
• Portable
• Virtually indestructible
• Comfortable feel
• Wireless available

Models Available: Super Kool Keyboard ($39.95),Xtreme Flexible USB Roll-Up Mini Keyboard ($19.99), Doogi Slim ($25.99),Flexible Foldable Spill Proof Full Sized Keyboard ($8.85), Foldable/Flexible Full Blk Keyboard ($27.89), White 109 KEY USB PS2 Flexible Spill Proof Keyboard (29.79), Notebook/Laptop Wireless USB Flexible Keyboard ($51.70) Other models available new and used at amazon.com and ebay.com


Users/Benefits: "For individuals with learning disabilities who are hyper-sensitive to background noise" (8). OpAmerica advertises their roll-up keyboard as "the best thing to happen since the backspace key" (9).


Issues:

• Rolling-up keyboard can cause damage to internal structure
• Like all public keyboards, they can harbour bacteria if not cleaned and sterilized appropriately and often.

Sorenson Videophone (Hardware)

Sorenson Videophone

Description of Technology: A videophone appliance hooked to a television or personal computer. Once the appliance is installed, this may or may not include the Sorenson EnVision SL (video relay software that gives a clear picture and smooth playback), "the deaf user sees an ASL [American Sign Language]interpreter on their TV and signs to the interpreter, who then contacts the hearing user via a standard phone line and relays the conversation between the two parties" (7).

http://www.sorensonvrs.com/what/index.php

Features: Sorenson Call Center interpreters must meet certain certification requirements. Sorenson Video Relay Service calls are free, and Sorenson also offers free support services. Other capabilities include: remote control, contact list, and a screen saver missed call display. "Hearing customers can also place video relay calls to any deaf or hard-of-hearing individual by simply dialing the toll free number 1-866-FAST-VRS (1-866-327-8877) with a standard telephone (7).

Company: Sorenson Communication

Users/Benefits: "Enables anyone to conduct video relay calls with family, friends, or business associates [also, student/teacher]" (7). The deaf and hard-of-hearing community can apply for a Sorenson Videophone at www.sorensonvrs.com for free. Also, the Sorenson EnVision SL software can be downloaded for free.

Issues:

• Limited availability
• Possible long wait time to receive videophone
• Must have a PC with high-speed or broadband Internet
• Must have a Web camera
  

ZoomText Xtra (Software)

ZoomText Xtra

Description of Technology:Magnification and screen reading software.

Features: "Windows programs can be enlarged and/or spoken through speech synthesis" (6). An echo feature allows "letters of words to be spoken as the user types in a word processing document" (6). Users can zoom in on certain areas of the computer screen.

Publisher: Ai Squared

Users/Benefits: Allows low vision users to "access word processing, database and spreadsheet programs, complete homework assignments, participate in class activities, and use the Internet" (6). Software contains features so a visually impaired person could install ZoomText on his/her own. "Users may choose to use Hotkeys or keyboard commands instead of 'point and click' to reduce eye fatigue" (6).

Issues:

• Hardware requirements
• Owner's manual only comes in large print. Accommodations such as "braille and audio tapes are not available" (6).

Cost: $595

Closed Circuit Television CCTV (Hardware)

CCTV (Closed Circuit Television)

Description of Technology: A video magnification tool consisting of a television screen and a camera. Video magnification occurs by a process of "electronic conversion from the small camera imager to the larger display screen" (2).

Features: "Enlarges text-based documents for easier reading" (1) Units display in full color and/or high contrast black and white.

Models avaliable: Clearview, Tablemate, Discovery Plus, SmartView, Aladdin, Chrisma, Atlas, ZACC, Penguin, Alpha Plus, TVi Autosensing Reading Aid

Users/Benefits: Low vision users; "Allows visually impaired students to more easily read textbooks, magazines, maps, charts or fine print" (3).

Issues:

• Choosing the best CCTV for you (In-line or Out-of-line)
  In-line CCTVs: the "video display is mounted over the camera" (2) Out-of-line CCTVs: "they are not 'portable'...the camera unit is a full size camera and the devices are meant to be used on a desk" (2).
• Space, this is especially may be a problem for out-of-line systems
• Being susceptible to CVS (computer vision syndrome) "This condition can be defined as visual fatigue or neck, shoulder, or back pain that results from using a computer for long periods of time" (5).
• Cost In-line SmartView Extend $2295(black and white) $2595(color) http://adaptivetech.net/products/smartview_xtend.htm
• Cost Out-of-line OVAC ZACC $1795 (does not include monitor)http://www.ovac.com/zacc.htm