Assistive
Technology
Schools are in uncharted territory as they try to prepare for distance learning because of the Covid-19 Pandemic. The resources below are for parents and teachers to explore to try and make learning inclusive during these challenging times. Click the links below for instructional videos or websites.
Technology Tools to Support Student Learning
Text Help and COVID 19 (read for special promotions).
Tools are built in to Microsoft for Free- This article explains how to access these tools and other tools it can integrate with (Google Docs, Nearpod, Flipgrid, Wakelet, etc.)
Click to access tutorials and guides.
I like when text is read to me...
- Click book icon in browser and then right click to have text read aloud
- iPhone, Newer Android, iPads
- Open app, snap picture of text, click open in immersive reader (customize font size, speed, voice, and background color)
Microsoft Word/Microsoft OneNote Immersive Reader
- Students can have assignments read aloud using immersive reader under the View Tab
- Typically, a student will already have this license as part of their IEP or 504 plan
Google Read Aloud Extension (Free)
- Select Extension, highlight text and click read aloud
7 Chrome Apps and Extensions for Reading
- Depends on district/need a license
- Typically, a student has a license as part of their IEP
Epic Books App (elementary and middle)
- Teachers can set-up a free account
- Has audiobooks and read aloud features
iOS Screen Reader (good for iPads)
It is easier to express my ideas by talking...
Suggestions:
1. Use a graphic organizer or have sentence starters to initiate a response before using dictate for longer writing assignments
2. Review dictate commands before having a student use the tool to reduce frustration (punctuation, new paragraph, etc.). These resources can be found in the links below depending on the program you use.
- Dictating letters, numbers, and symbols
- Microsoft OneNote has dictate and audio message
Google Docs Voice Typing (Tools Tab)
- Teachers will invite you to a grid with a code or link. You can leave a video response
I like tools to assist with spelling and grammar...
- Grammarly Extension
- Siri and Google Assistant for Spelling (many dyslexics can struggle with spelling, so much that spellcheck cannot recognize the word. If your child/student prefers to type, it may be helpful for them to have an ipad or phone, depending on age, and to dictate the word into siri/google/alexa searches.
I like tools that assist with writing notes
I like tools that help me keep up with class writing activities...
Google Docs Voice Typing (Tools Tab)
Microsoft OneNote Audio Recording tool
Low Tech-pencil grips, grid paper, and cursive writing
I like tools to help me organize my tasks...
Google Keep (Syncs with a students Google Calendar. Free app for phone and iPads)
Microsoft Planner (Syncs with Outlook Calendar. Free app for phones)
I am learning to speak English, I like tools that can help me understand my class work...
Teachers, it will be very important to make a virtual experience inclusive to diverse learners and families who do not speak English as their primary language. The tools below can help you translate your communication and remove language barriers to meet the unique needs in your classroom.
- Español Microsoft Translator
I like tech tools that help reduce distractions when I read...
- Click book icon in browser and then right click to have text read aloud
- There are many Chrome extensions as well, but you will need to check with your school's data privacy policy. Some extensions can collect student data, which is something to avoid.
I like tools to help make print bigger or to assist with color contrast...
(Note: Dyslexia is not a visual disability. This tool may help others. Words can be broken into syllables, which can help students with decoding).
Microsoft Word/Microsoft OneNote Immersive Reader