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This app was created to help users write on computers. It always for the writer to listen to what they wrote in order to hear mistakes. This video provides instruction on how to use the app.

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Ghotit Writing Assistive Technology - Training

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Here is the link to where you can find more information on the Ghotit app and download it.

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Dyslexia Writing & Reading Assistive Technology | Ghotit Dyslexia

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Dyslexia Writing & Reading Assistant

Advanced Desktop and Mobile Apps for People with Dyslexia and Dysgraphia

Word Prediction

Reading Assistance

Screenshot Reader

Spell Checker

Grammar Checker

Ghotit was developed with the promise to assist us, the dyslexic community

We, the founders of Ghotit, have lived with dyslexia and dysgraphia our whole lives.

Ghotit was designed and developed for all of us, who cope dyslexia and/or dysgraphia.

Ghotit aids people who need to overcome on a daily basis writing and reading problems

Ghotit supports people challenged with reading English text such as a website page or document

Ghotit assists people familiar with the frustration of producing terribly spelled text even after investing a lot of time in correcting the text

Ghotit offers solutions for people with dyslexia and dysgraphia

Starting with people with mild dyslexia and/or dysgraphia that have from time to time a problem reading or writing single word or phrase

Up to people with severe dyslexia and/or dysgraphia that are slow typers, have many spelling and grammar problems or have a severe reading problem

Our Solutions

Stay tuned! Register for updates

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Dyslexia Help for Children and Adults with | Ghotit Dyslexia

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Advanced Desktop and Mobile Apps for People with Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Word Prediction Reading Assistance Screenshot Reader Spell Checker Grammar Checker We, the founders of Ghotit, have lived with dyslexia and dysgraphia our whole lives. Ghotit was designed and developed for all of us, who cope dyslexia and/or dysgraphia.

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This application for chrome always for you to use your voice to take notes. You can change the font and color of the text and background.

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Typing with your voice and speech recognition. Simple and functional notepad.

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This image shows the transition of writing active technology for low/no-teach to high-tech. This gives a visual of the different forms of AT for writing and the degree of technology needed.

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This video provides information on different low-tech tools for writing. These include different types of pencils/ pens and paper.

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Assistive Technology for Writing   Low High Tech Options

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WEBSITE: http://www.teachertube.com Assistive Technology for writing low tech options is an overview of materials including adapted pens pencils and papers. This video is not intended to be an indepth training of low tech options for writing but a short overview.

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University of Michigan created a list of different tools, applications, and programs to us to assist with writing. Each tool has a link and tutorial on how to use the tool.

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"The number one way to succeed on the job is to use technology."

Dr. Michael Ryan (DyslexiaHelp's contributing expert)

Today's technological age has brought forth a number of very good computer programs and tools to help individuals with:

Listening & speaking

Reading & spelling

Writing & organization

We have found the following software programs and assistive devices successful in helping to address the areas that affect dyslexic individuals. These technologies cannot replace direct intervention, but they can augment a therapy program. Training from a professional may be required to get the best results. These technologies help:

Accommodate for challenges

Increase self-confidence at home, in the classroom, or on the job

We update this page as new technologies are developed, so visit often!

Listening & Notetaking

Phonics

Reading, Writing, and Study Support

School age and up
The iPad has several tools and features that can be helpful with learning, such as:

Touch-screen technology in either portrait or landscape

Built-in screen reader

iBook application for reading, listening to, and buying new books

Other Features

Note application for managing to-do lists

Calendar application

Ages 8 and up
Kurzweil 3000 allows struggling readers to learn the same content as their peers in different ways with this reading, writing and learning software solution. Kurzweil 3000 supports Universal Design for Learning, and offers:

Fluency

Vocabulary

Comprehension

Writing

Study skills

Test-taking support

Other Features

Text-to-speech capabilities for documents and web pages

Color highlighters

Notes and bookmarking

Text-to-Speech

School age and up
TalkButton is one of the few text-reading applications that not only works well in Microsoft Word, but allows the user to write, work and create right in the document. It reads text from all other major programs and is ultra-user-friendly, fast and responsive.

Writing & Spelling Software

School age and up
Draft:Builder 6 helps struggling writers produce their best possible work by breaking down the writing process into three simple steps:

Brainstorming ideas

Jotting down notes

Creating a first draft

School age and up
Ginger writer is the leading writing assistant and grammar checker. Rather than editing a piece of writing one word at a time, Ginger checks the entire sentence for clarity. Ginger is used to correct spelling and grammar mistakes so you can focus on the content your writing. Ginger's apps are available on Windows, Microsoft Outlook, Google Chrome, iPhone and Android.
Other Features

School age and up
Grammarly is an online grammar checking website that can scan essays, articles, and other documents to find mistakes in the text. The website's program looks for over 250 grammar mistakes encompassed in seven areas: grammar, punctuation, spelling, enhancement, style, sentence structure, and plagiarism.
Other Features

Grammar and punctuation corrector

Spell-checker

Error explanation

Outdated spelling

Online Tools

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"The number one way to succeed on the job is to use technology." Dr. Michael Ryan (DyslexiaHelp's contributing expert) Today's technological age has brought forth a number of very good computer programs and tools to help individuals with: Listening & speaking Reading & spelling Writing & organization We have found the following software programs and assistive devices successful in helping to address the areas that affect dyslexic individuals.

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This map shows the different tools that can downloaded on a computer or mobile to assist in writing.

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This image provides general types of AT for writing. It is a good start when trying to learning about the different types of AT available for writing.

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This article from ADDITUDE, a website about ADHD, provides tools to support writing for those with ADHD.

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Many children with ADHD struggle with writing or spelling, making it hard to get their (creative/powerful/etc.) thoughts on paper. These high-tech solutions could help these kids use their words - and let their great ideas shine.

Assistive technology is designed to make hard, or seemingly impossible, tasks doable. For students with disabilities, writing can be the hardest task of all. Since difficulties in writing are wide-ranging - and technology is evolving - finding the right AT device to incorporate in your child's school accommodations can be an ordeal.

You should understand your child's challenges and match technology to his needs, says Joan Green, author of The Ultimate Guide to Assistive Technology in Special Education. A word-prediction program that requires a few keystrokes to generate word lists can help students with severe spelling problems, who do not benefit from spell-checkers. Graphic organizers, on the other hand, can be helpful to students who can't generate ideas and organize their thoughts.

Although Green encourages teachers to use online resources, she says that a digital pen, such as the Livescribe Pen, is a good investment for many students. "I use this with kids who can't take notes in class," she says. The Livescribe Pen captures the audio in the classroom, which can then be uploaded, and shared, online. Students can tap on the notes they took during class and hear the audio recorded at the moment they were writing. The pen is helpful for students who don't catch the main points during class.

WordQ is another tool that Green favors. In fact, she uses it herself. The software aids with typing and proofreading by providing such features as word prediction, highlighting, and auditory feedback. The program reads text aloud as the user types. "You're less likely to miss errors in your work if you hear your writing spoken aloud," says Green. "And if you get stuck on spelling, it provides help."

Debra Bauder, president of the Special Education Technology Interest Group of the International Society for Technology in Education, recommends a program called Inspiration, a graphic organizer to help students with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, aphasia, or who struggle with organizing their thoughts into written words. The software is meant to engage kids in the writing process through diagrams, outlines, graphics, video, and sound. Teachers can link the software to an interactive whiteboard to demonstrate it for the class.

Windows Vista has a word dictation function built into its program. If you want to take word prediction to the next level, Bauder suggests Co:Writer, developed by Don Johnston. It will help your student write papers that will catch the teacher's eye.

Excerpted from Education Week Teacher Professional Development Sourcebook (edweek.org). Reprinted with permission from Editorial Projects in Education.

Free Writing Tools on the Web
GRAPHIC ORGANIZER
Mindomo
This site allows students to create mind maps for a long-term project. To make ideas interesting, children can embed video and audio into the map and also collaborate with peers to flesh out ideas. Maps can be exported to Microsoft Word and Excel.
SPELLING SOFTWARE
VocabularySpellingCity
The site is meant to improve a child's spelling and vocabulary skills. Features include word games, such as crossword puzzles, HangMouse, and other activities that use the words entered by the user. Users can hear words read aloud to them, on their own or used in a sentence.
VISUAL DICTIONARIES
Shahi
This site uses images and graphics from Flickr, Google, and Yahoo to convey the meaning of words.

Visuwords
The site helps students understand a word's meaning by demonstrating its connections to other words through diagrams.

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The "Write" Assistive Tech Tools for Kids with ADHD

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Many children with ADHD struggle with writing or spelling, making it hard to get their (creative/powerful/etc.) thoughts on paper. These high-tech solutions could help these kids use their words - and let their great ideas shine. Assistive technology is designed to make hard, or seemingly impossible, tasks doable.

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This article organizes tools into child need, such as organization, writing, and literacy. The article is focused on those with learning disabilities.

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By: Zahavit Paz

Often students with dyslexia and/or a learning disability are simply unable to organize their thoughts and express their comprehension of a subject through writing. Poor handwriting, the inability to master typing or utilize a keyboard can present additional challenges. Without these skills, students are unable to demonstrate through writing their knowledge of a subject which often leads to frustration and course failure.

Today, there is a wide range of assistive technology tools and apps for writing, organizing and reading.

These apps and tools for writing, spelling, grammar, proofreading, and organizing are now available for free or at a low cost for use on iPads, iPhones, tablets and computers.

What Are the Top Assistive Technology Tools and Apps to Improve Your Writing? How Do They Work?
Below is the list of popular assistive technology for students with disabilities including assistive technology tools and apps organized by category.
Organizing Thoughts and Ideas

Graphic organizers can be effective in helping students organize their thoughts during the writing process. A student can map out a course of action . This visual tool can help to break down ideas and projects into smaller parts. Students can use these tools to brainstorm and plan what they want to write. Graphic organizers come in many forms: from mind maps, to diagrams, to flowcharts. They can be digital or pen and paper .

The inspiration app is a graphic organizer that assists students with the flow process. It takes their ideas and organizes them in a diagram format. Students can see how their ideas are connected, how they are grouped together and, then how to organize them.

Writing Tools

Dictation (Speech-to-Text, STT) allows students to create text by using their voice instead of a keyboard. As they speak, their words appear on the screen. Keep in mind that to use dictation, one must be able to speak clearly and provide verbal commands for things like punctuation. Some dictation software can also be used to convert audio recordings into digital text.

Word prediction suggests the correct spelling of words after only a few letters are typed on a keyboard. Word prediction sometimes uses "word banks" (commonly used words in a topic area) to help students come up with words to complete sentences.

Spell-check and grammar check are available on most word processors. Some AT tools for writing take spell-check and grammar check to the next level by checking for incorrect words that sound alike or for words that don't make sense in context.

Literacy tools. These programs combine several functionalities such as text to speech (TTS), speech to text (STT), word prediction, and specialized dictionaries.

Literacy Tools ([block]3[/block])

Kurzweil 3000 (link) is a robust program with many tools for teachers and students and individuals that struggle with a range of visual, reading or writing challenges. The programs include a host of study aids and highlighters to underscore important ideas, including the ability to insert a note or footnotes for source citations. In addition to a range of TTS features, the full-featured software program integrates abilities that can help students with their proofreading writing.

Co:Writer (link) Developed by Don Johnston, it's a crucial writing aid for many learning disabled students and those with dyslexia. No matter how badly students misspell words, it will support all their writing needs and ensure they choose the right words. Another important point it analyzes writing in real time and offers word choices based on grammar. It works with most writing applications like Microsoft word. Available for Chromebooks, iPads, and Mac/Windows desktops.

CalroRead Plus (link) is a highly effective, multi-sensory software solution for supporting reading and writing. ClaroRead can practically speak any on-screen text out loud and is perfectly integrated with Microsoft Word. ClaroRead improves written accuracy with an enhanced spell check, homophone check, thesaurus, and speaking dictionary. Words can also be spoken back as they are typed. Easy to use the floating toolbar that can be minimized or hidden, at an affordable price, also available as an app.

Text-to-Speech(TTS) (link)is typically thought of as a reading tool . But (Text to speech) can also be helpful with writing. The AT can be used to read aloud what has been written allowing you to check your writing for mistakes. Some TTS tools can also read words aloud they are being typed. This gives students real-time feedback on what they're writing.

Other Writing Apps

Dictionaries and thesaurus can help students who struggle with written expression to define a word or find the right word.

Grammarly (link) - is an excellent grammar checker that is easy to use and can help improve writing skills. This powerful real-time grammar checker can be used with Microsoft Office or as an online dashboard that works much like Google Docs. Alternatively, you can install the Grammarly in a Chrome plugin.

Proofreading technology software goes above and beyond the typical proofreading features found in a word processing system, such as correcting words frequently misspelled by students with dyslexia.

Hemingway Editor (link) - Hemingway App makes your writing bold and clear. The app highlights lengthy, complex sentences and common errors;

Summary

Good writing skills are essential. Communication Skills: It's the Key to Any Success! Today, there are many writing tools. Some of these desktops and laptop computers, iPads and iPhones. Additionally, most computers assistive technology tools and apps are free and available on computers, mobile devices, have built-in accessibility tools, such as Text to Speech and Speech to Text dictation. Smartphones, iPads, and tablet devices have assistive technology. You will just need to turn on the accessibility function to access them.

Photo Credit: burst.shopify.com via Pexels.com

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Assistive Technology Tools for Students with Learning Disability - LDRFA

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By: Zahavit Paz Often students with dyslexia and/or a learning disability are simply unable to organize their thoughts and express their comprehension of a subject through writing. Poor handwriting, the inability to master typing or utilize a keyboard can present additional challenges.

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This article provides a wide range of tools to support students with learning disabilities. The tools range from the type of the tech and their purpose.

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Prepared by Gabrielle Young, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Jeffrey MacCormack, M.Ed., Doctoral Student, Queen's University
Assistive technology refers to the devices and services that are used to increase, maintain, or improve the capabilities of a student with a disability (Dell, Newton, & Petroff, 2012). While the phrase assistive technology may make us think of computers and computerized devices, assistive technology can also be very low-tech. For example, pencil-grips (the molded plastic grips that slip over a pencil) are considered assistive technology. Assistive technology that helps students with learning disabilities includes computer programs and tablet applications that provide text-to-speech (e.g., Kurzweil 3000), speech-to-text (e.g., Dragon Naturally Speaking), word prediction capabilities (e.g., WordQ), and graphic organizers (e.g., Inspiration).

In comparison to other interventions, assistive technology may have a significant effect in helping students with disabilities progress towards the goals outlined on their Individual Education Plans (Watson, Ito, Smith, & Andersen, 2010). Assistive technology helps in two ways: it can help the student learn how to complete the task and it can help to bypass an area of difficulty. For example, when a student decides to listen to a digital version of a book, they are bypassing an area of difficulty. However, if the student focuses on the computer screen as highlighted words are read aloud, they can learn unfamiliar words.

Assistive Technology Summary Points

1. Assistive technology ranges from low- to high-tech.

2. Assistive technology can be used in two ways: to support learning and to bypass a challenging task such as handwriting.

3. In order to be effective, assistive technology needs to be embedded within quality instruction.

Laptop Computers and Computerized Devices: Benefits of Assistive Technology

Laptop computers and tablet devices are beneficial for students with learning disabilities because they are portable and lightweight. For students with handwriting difficulties, being able to take notes on a laptop or computerized device (such as an iPad) can improve the quantity and quality of the notes (Vaughn & Bos, 2009). Using a word processor can help students to complete work that is more organized and includes less spelling errors than handwritten work (Hetzroni & Shrieber, 2004). In addition, students may identify and correct more errors when using spell check than when editing by hand (MacArthur, Graham, Haynes, & De La Paz, 1996; McNaughton, Hughes, & Ofiesh, 1997). However, obtaining personal access to laptops and computerized devices does not ensure engagement and increased academic success (Donovan, Green, & Hartley, 2010). For many students, laptop computers and computerized devices can be too distracting. Teachers and students need to be trained in how to meaningfully integrate technology into academic contexts so that the devices don't detract from learning (Dell, Newton, & Petroff, 2012).

Computer-assisted Instruction

Computer-assisted instruction refers to software and applications that have been designed to provide instruction and practice opportunities on a wide range of devices (e.g., computer, laptop, iPad, mobile technology). Computer-assisted instruction provides immediate and dynamic feedback and students with learning disabilities can benefit from this nonjudgmental computerized drill and practice (Stetter & Hughes, 2010). Computer-assisted instruction has been shown to be helpful for students with learning disabilities in spelling and expressive writing skills (Wanzek et al., 2006) as this software can reduce distractibility (Hecker, Burns, Elkind, Elkind, & Katz, 2002), and can help students learn to read (Lee & Vail, 2005) and achieve other academic outcomes (Chiang & Jacobs, 2009). Computer-assisted instruction is also an effective way for students with learning disabilities to practice math drills (Bouck & Flanagan, 2009), as students who used computer-assisted instruction to practice math skills were able to memorize math facts more easily, and developed a more positive attitude towards math than students who did not use computer-assisted instruction (Adcock et al., 2010).
Computer-assisted Instruction Summary Points Figure 1: Helping students through assistive technology

1. Computer-assisted instruction provides students with dynamic feedback.

2. Computer-assisted instruction can help students practice spelling and multiplication drills.

3. In order to prevent the technology from being a distraction, students need to be taught how to use technology to support their learning

Software Functions

Assistive technology can improve the writing skills of students with learning disabilities (Batorowicz, Missiuna, & Pollock, 2012). Assistive technology can help students to bypass the mechanical aspects of writing. Using spell check and grammar features can help students focus on communicating their ideas and students can write with confidence knowing that they can easily make changes. In addition, being able to submit a final assignment that is neater and better organized supports positive self-esteem. Text-to-speech (e.g., Kurzweil 3000), speech-to-text (e.g., Dragon Naturally Speaking), word prediction (e.g., WordQ) and graphic organizers (e.g., Inspiration) are four useful software functions for students who struggle with language-based learning disabilities.

We may not consider the default functions of word processors to be ground breaking, but for students with learning disabilities, functions such as spell check and text-to-speech can be a tremendous help when composing and decoding words.

Text-to-speech - Text-to-speech software, such as Kurzweil 3000, can read aloud digital or printed text. This is beneficial as students are more likely to understand text when unfamiliar words are read to them (MacArthur, Ferreti, Okolo, & Cavalier, 2001). Text-to-speech can have a positive effect on decoding and word recognition (Raskind & Higgins, 1999), as well as reading fluency and reading comprehension (Izzo, Yurick, & McArrell, 2009; Montali & Lewandowski, 1996; Stodden, Roberts, Takahishi, Park, & Stodden, 2012). Text-to-speech software can be especially helpful for students who retain more information through listening than reading. This software can assist students with monitoring and revising their typed work, as hearing the text read aloud may assist students in catching grammatical errors that may have otherwise gone unnoticed (Raskind & Higgins, 1995; Rao, Dowrick, Yuen, & Boisvert, 2009; Zhang, 2000).

After reviewing the literature, Strangman and Dalton (2005) reported that the use of text-to-speech software can improve students' sight reading and decoding abilities. In addition, text-to-speech software can improve the reading comprehension of individuals with specific deficits in phonological processing (difficulty hearing letter-sounds) as students can learn to decode new words when they are highlighted as they are read aloud (Fasting & Halaas Lyster, 2005; Holmes & Silvestri, 2009). Kurzweil 3000 provides reading, writing, studying, and organizational support for students who have difficulty reading or writing (e.g., Elkind, 1998). The use of Kurweil 3000 software also improves students' perception of their work and their ability to write expressively (Chiang & Jacobs, 2009). Programs such as Kurzweil 3000 may decrease the negative emotions students associate with reading and provide students with a more complete comprehension of the text (Young, 2012), and as a result, text-to-speech programs are recommended for use along with research-supported reading intervention practices.

Speech-to-text - Writing involves low-level transcription skills (e.g., handwriting, spelling, punctuation, and grammar), as well as high-level composition skills (e.g., planning, generating content, and revising). Speech-to-text software transcribes spoken word into computer text, allowing the student to bypass the demands of typing or handwriting; freed from these effortful tasks, students may compose stories that are longer, more complex, and contain fewer errors (Graham, 1999). Speech recognition accuracy improves with use; however, new users can become frustrated with the training process, and they may lack the ability to efficiently edit the program's text output. Titles such as XpressLab are licensed by the Ministry of Education and can be used to improve expressive oral language for students in grade 7-12.
Software Summary Point
Voice recognition software can improve word recognition, spelling, and reading comprehension skills for students with learning disabilities (Higgins & Raskind, 2000). MacArthur and Cavalier (2004) found that for students with learning disabilities, essays dictated using Dragon Naturally Speaking were better than handwritten essays, but essays dictated to a scribe were even better. These authors found a differential impact on students with and without disabilities, providing evidence that this technology removes a barrier based on disability.
Click here to access a list of Ministry of Education approved software titles.
Word Prediction - Word prediction software was originally designed for students with physical disabilities who experienced difficulty typing. However, word prediction with text-to-speech is also effective for students with learning disabilities because it reduces the need for handwriting, and improves students' spelling accuracy and writing skills (Cullen, Richards, & Frank, 2008; Evmenova, Graff, Jerome & Behrman, 2010; Handley-More, Dietz, Billingsley & Coggins, 2003; Lewis, Graves, Ashton, & Kieley, 1998; Silió & Barbetta, 2010). In addition, students may find it enjoyable to have the words recommended through word prediction and be able to form sentences without having to worry about spelling and word-choice (Evmenova et al., 2010).

An analysis of 25 years of research found that word prediction increases transcription accuracy and may also increase word fluency and compositional quality of writing for students with learning and academic difficulties (Peterson-Karlan, 2011). In one particular study, children and their families generally found WordQ to be helpful, and reported improved vocabulary use and increased independence, productivity, and motivation to write (Tam, Archer, Mays, & Skidmore, 2005). While there are potential benefits to the use of WordQ, a basic foundation of phonological awareness is required as students who are unable to identify the beginning sound of words will not benefit from using word prediction software because the user has to provide the first letters of the word (MacArthur, 1999). In addition, word prediction demands a fairly high level of attention to make use of the suggested words (MacArthur, 1998); and as a result, each child must be considered on an individual basis in order to select the appropriate technology for his or her learning needs.

1. Text-to-speech software helps students to bypass the task of decoding words. Seeing individual words highlighted as the text is read aloud may help to improve students' sight word vocabulary.

2. Speech-to-text software bypasses the tasks of handwriting and spelling, allowing the student to concentrate on developing their ideas and planning their work.

3. Speech-to-text software bypasses the tasks of handwriting and spelling, allowing the student to concentrate on developing their ideas and planning their work.

Mid-tech Devices

Mid-tech devices such as audio recorders, portable note takers, mp3 players, calculators, and pentop computers (such as LiveScribe smartpen) can be useful without the cost associated with high-tech devices. For example, the AlphaSmart is a note-taking device that can provide basic word-processing, without the cost related to the purchase and maintenance of a laptop. AlphaSmart devices were discontinued in 2013, but NEO Direct still provides support for users.

Figure 2: Exploring technology for students with learning disabilities
While assistive technology can be low or high-tech, most of the assistive technology for students with learning disabilities is high-tech (Lewis, 1998). Teachers should become familiar with assistive technology and understand how it can be incorporated within their teaching to support an inclusive learning environment.

Graphic Organizers - Graphic organizers benefit individuals who experience difficulty expressing their thoughts on paper as well as visual learners who need to see their ideas mapped out. While graphic organizers completed without technology can help students with learning disabilities to improve the quality of writing (Institute for the Advancement of Research in Education, 2003), electronic versions, such as Inspiration, allow students to arrange their thoughts on the computer screen without worrying about order, level of importance or categories because the text can be easily manipulated. Graphic organizers provide an organizational framework to help writers generate topics and content for writing projects and can assist with the planning and organizational stages of writing, and using concept mapping software can increase the quality and quantity of writing (Sturm & Rankin-Erickson, 2002). Using a web-based graphic organizer with procedural prompts enabled students to produce better organized and higher quality papers, than they could produce with handwritten organizers (Englert, Wu & Zhao, 2005; Englert, Zhao, Dunsmore, Collings, & Woblers, 2007). Being taught a strategy to plan and organize writing can improve the compositions of students with learning disabilities (MacArthur, 2009).

Pentop computers - Pentop computers, such as LiveScribe smart pens, are cheaper than high-tech devices like iPads but can provide text-to-speech, strategy feedback, and other organizational functions. As cost-effective and self-regulated reading aides, pentop computers may be a useful tool for students with reading disabilities (Schmitt, McCallum, Hennessey, Lovelace, & Hawkins, 2012). Pentop computers are also useful because they utilize instruction strategies such as providing auditory feedback during composition or math work. Handheld computerized devices that provide feedback have shown to be helpful for students with learning disabilities for essay composition (Bouck, Bassette, Taber-Doughty, Flanagan, & Szwed, 2009), and receptive note-taking and multiplication skills (Bouck, Flanagan, Miller, & Bassette, 2009). For example, pentop computers are able to provide reminders such as "don't forget to carry" during multiplication questions (Doughty, Bouck, Bassette, Szwed, & Flanagan, 2013).

Calculators and math software - Students with learning disabilities may have a history of academic failure, which contributed to their development of learned helplessness in math. For some students, a fear of failure and low academic self-concept can lead to math related anxiety. While the use of calculators can level the playing field for students with learning disabilities, some research has shown that calculators may provide unfair advantage (Bouck & Flanagan, 2009). Graphing calculators may be particularly effective because they provide visual conformation of the graph-shape. The added advantage of visual data can be highly motivating for students with learning disabilities (Bethell & Miller, 1998). Math drill programs can be an effective way for students to learn to mentally solve math questions (Adcock et al., 2010), they are also effective in increasing motivation and the addition and subtraction skills of students with dyscalculia (Amiripour, Bijan-zadeh, Pezeshki, & Najafi, 2011). Math Trek 1,2,3 is an example of software licensed by the Ministry of Education for use in classroom. Click here to find the full list of approved software titles.

1. Concept organizers, whether completed electronically or by hand, may contribute to better writing in students with learning disabilities.

2. Pentop computers can be used for reading (text-to-speech), writing (digitizing written words), and math (strategy feedback).

3. Calculators can help students with learning disabilities demonstrate their understanding of mathematical computations. Graphing calculators can provide additional support as they verify graph shapes and help solve algebraic equations.

Considerations

Much needs to be done to improve the quality of special education technology research (Edyburn, 2009). Little research has been conducted on the use of assistive technology in inclusive schools (Watson, Ito, Smith, & Andersen, 2010), and only a few researchers are conducting systematic, well-designed research that can lead to confident conclusions on how the use of assistive technology affects learning (Edyburn & Gersten, 2007; MacArthur, Ferretti, Okolo, & Cavalier, 2001; Wanzek et al., 2006). In addition, research cannot be produced quickly enough to match the rate of technological innovations, and as a result, educators tend to rely on the claims of the producers of the technologies rather than evidence-based research (Blackhurst, 2005).

Despite the enthusiasm that may surround the application of assistive technology in the classroom, assistive technology is not a panacea. Lack of common vision, limited training, access to support services, insufficient funding, and lack of teacher time are commonly cited problems in regards to the implementation of assistive technology (Ault, Bausch, & McLaren, 2013; Flanagan, Bouck, & Richardson, 2013; Morrison, 2007; Okolo & Diedrich, 2014). Researchers have noted that there is still an enormous gap between the potential of assistive technology and how much it actually helps (Burne, Knafelc, Melonis, & Heyn, 2011).

Assistive technology can reduce students' dependence on others to read, write, and organize their work (MacArthur, Ferretti, Okolo, & Cavalier, 2001; Mull & Sitlington, 2003). When provided with effective strategy instruction, outlining programs and concept mapping software can help with planning, and word processing, spell check, word prediction, and speech recognition can offer support for transcription and revision (MacArthur, 2009). While assistive technology can support struggling learners, MacArthur (2009) cautions that technology by itself has little impact on learning. In order for students to benefit from the technology, educators must have an understanding of assistive technology and how to embedded it within quality instruction (Batorowicz, Missiuana, & Pollock, 2012; Lee & Vega, 2005; Marino, Marino, & Shaw, 2006; Michaels & McDermott, 2003).

Staff Training

In a large scale survey study nearly three-quarters of respondents indicated that improved staff training and knowledge were the most important actions that could be taken to promote technology use (Okolo & Diedrich, 2014). Assistive technology devices and services have to be coupled with context-appropriate instruction from trained teachers (Specht, Howell, & Young, 2007), as students' successful implementation of assistive technology is directly related to the knowledge, skills, and dispositions of special education teachers (Michaels & McDermott, 2003). While educators acknowledge the potential of assistive technology, they may feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of understanding and using this technology with their students (Lee & Vega, 2005; Ludlow, 2001). Many teachers feel that they lack the knowledge and support to more fully integrate assistive technology into the curriculum (Okolo & Diedrich, 2014). This is not surprizing given that only a third of special education programs surveyed by Judge and Simms (2009) addressed assistive technology, and few workshops or professional development opportunities exist to continually support teachers' use of assistive technology during instruction (Lee & Vega, 2005; Ludlow, 2001; Michaels & McDermott, 2003). Teachers' use and understanding of assistive technology may increase when provided with effective instruction during pre-service education or professional development opportunities (Flanagan, Bouck, & Richardson, 2013; Lee & Vega, 2005). General educators and special educators need to become familiar with assistive and instructional technology so that they can embed this technology within their instruction to meet the needs of all their students (Chmiliar, 2007; Chmiliar & Cheung, 2007; Flanagan, Bouck, & Richardson, 2013).

When recommending the use of assistive technology, one must consider how training can be provided for students, parents, and teachers to become competent with the technology, as well as environmental factors that will continue to support the child in using technology (Specht, Howell, & Young, 2007). Funding should be allotted for the training of teachers to effectively facilitate assistive technology use (Burne, Knafelc, Melonis, & Heyn, 2011), and all educators who support an individual student should be knowledgeable about that child's assistive technology and be able to embed the use of the technology within instruction (Nelson, 2006; Okolo & Diedrich, 2014). Computers shouldn't be restricted to a specific subject area, and the use of technology should not solely occur within a computer lab; rather, assistive and instructional technology should be an integral part of all subjects and the use of these tools should be built into the curriculum. Schools should encourage teaching staff to assume the role of technology co-ordinators as they understand the demands of the curriculum and may be best equipped to find free or low cost educational solutions to help students meet curricular expectations.

1. Due to the limited evidence-based research, teachers tend to make decision about assistive technology based on claims from the software companies.

2. In order to be effective, assistive technology has to be coupled with quality instruction.

3. Teachers require training to support their implementation of assistive technology.

Examples of Assistive Technology by Domain

Receptive
Notepad - Notepads are an excellent way to record information. Students with learning disabilities (LDs) may appreciate having the information colour-coded based on the purpose, topic, or function of the information.

Audiobooks - Provides a simple way to listen to many of the best classic books and modern titles .

Speaking
Cue cards - Cue cards provide helpful hints for the oral presentation of information, and the process of composing cue cards can help organize the information before-hand.

Prezi - A free 3D graphic organizer which can be used to create presentations. Prezis can be collaborative as students can comment and build upon other Prezis.

ShowMe Interactive Whiteboard -In order to reduce anxiety, students may opt to record presentations on their iPad beforehand. Video recordings can be uploaded on YouTube or a more private domain.

Reading
Highlighter strips - Translucent rectangles of colour can help eliminate extra visual clutter by blocking out the rest of the text. Sticky notes - Students with LDs may find it useful to summarize the main ideas of the text with sticky notes which can be stuck directly on the page.

Kurzweil 3000 - Text-to-speech software, such as Kurzweil 3000, can read aloud digital or printed text.

Storyline Online - A free online streaming video program featuring books read aloud. Each book includes accompanying activities and lesson ideas.

Project Gutenberg - Over 45,000 free e-books.

Wikipedia - The Simple English function on Wikipedia allows content to be "translated" into plain English which is easier to read.

Writing
Pencil grips - For students who struggle with handwriting, pencil grips can provide a surface that is easier to manipulate.

Computerized pens - These pens can automatically transmit handwriting into digital text. Some computerized pens have audio-recording functions that allow the writer to listen to specific sections of the audio file by tapping on the written notes.

Word processing - Functions such as spell check, dictionary options, synonym support, and word-prediction features are helpful for students with learning disabilities.

Reasoning
Graphic organizers - Organizing ideas visually allows students with LDs to see the connections between ideas. Audio recorders - Many students with LD experience difficulty translating oral language into written text. Recording ideas early in the thinking process can provide a record for later recall and clarification.

SimpleMind+ - This app allows you to brainstorm and organize your ideas. Completed concept maps can be automatically converted to an outline.

Math
4-function calculator - Depending on the type of work being done, a 4-function calculator can be a great help without providing disproportionate advantage to students with LDs.

Graphing calculator - Graphing computers can solve complex equations, and the dynamic display screen allows the student to verify the results before solving on paper.

Math Dictionary for Kids - An animated, interactive online math dictionary that explains over 600 common mathematical terms in simple language.

Braiing Camp - Animated lessons and interactive activities to assess student understanding.

IXL Math - IXL's math practice skills are aligned with pre-K through Grade 8 provincial curricula, and students' performance is assessed on each objective.

Sumdog - Sumdog's learning engine adapts its math questions to each student's ability. Covering number operations through to simple algebra, it is designed for students age 6 to 14.

ShowMe and ScreenChomp - These apps provide an interactive whiteboard interface to solve problems. The actions on the screen and audio can be recorded and shared as a video file.

References

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Forgrave, K. (2002). Assistive technology empowering students with learning disabilities. Assistive Technology, 75, 122-126. doi:10.1080/00098650209599250

Graham, S. (1999). The role of text production skills in writing development: A special issue. Learning Disabilities Quarterly, 22, 75-77. doi:10.2307/1511267

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Hecker, L., Burns, L., Elkind, J., Elkind, K., & Katz, L. (2002). Benefits of assistive reading software for students with attention disorders. Annals of Dyslexia, 52, 243-272. doi:10.1007/s11881-002-0015-8

Hetzroni, O. E., & Shrieber, B. (2004). Word processing as an assistive technology tool for enhancing academic outcomes of students with writing disabilities in the general classroom. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 37, 143-154. doi:10.1177/0022221940403

Higgins, E. L., & Raskind, M. H. (2000). Speaking to read: A comparison of continuous vs. discrete speech recognition in the remediation of learning disabilities. Journal of Special Education Technology, 15, 19-30.

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Lee, Y., & Vail, C. O. (2005). Computer-based reading instruction for young children with disabilities. Journal of Special Education Technology, 20, 5-18.

Lee, Y., & Vega, L. A. (2005). Perceived knowledge, attitudes and challenges of AT use in special education. Journal of Special Education Technology, 20, 60-63.

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Dr. Gabrielle Young is an Assistant Professor at Memorial University of Newfoundland where she teaches undergraduate courses such as the Nature and Characteristics of Learning Disabilities and Inclusive Practices for Students with Learning Disabilities, as well as graduate courses such as the Nature and Assessment of Learning Disabilities. While completing her doctoral studies at Western University, Gabrielle was also actively involved with the Learning Disabilities Association - London Region, where she was Vice-President of the Board. Gabrielle's research interests include: the use of assistive technology by students with special learning needs; learners' self-beliefs and the self-esteem of individuals with learning disabilities; and the use of universal design for learning and differentiated instruction to support the inclusion of students with exceptionalities in the general education classroom. Jeffrey MacCormack is a PhD student at the Faculty of Education, Queen's University, with a focus on cognition. He is a teacher certified by the Ontario College of Teachers with 9 years of experience teaching elementary school. He worked as an instructor at Queen's University and has taught and authored online courses for educators. He is currently conducting research on several topics including: learning disabilities, autism, emotional well-being, and youth development.
Young, G. (2012). Examining assistive technology use, self-concept, and motivation, as students with learning disabilities transition from a demonstration school into inclusive classrooms. Unpublished Doctoral thesis, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. Retrieved from http://ir.lib.uwo.ca/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2316&context=etd

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Assistive Technology for Students with Learning Disabilities

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Prepared by Gabrielle Young, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Jeffrey MacCormack, M.Ed., Doctoral Student, Queen's University Assistive technology refers to the devices and services that are used to increase, maintain, or improve the capabilities of a student with a disability (Dell, Newton, & Petroff, 2012).

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Graphic organizers are a great tool to help students with disabilities organize their thoughts for writing. There are many different types of graphic organizers to use and different programs that help make them.

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Graphic Organizers for Students with Learning Disabilities

Are you familiar with the use of graphic organizers? As students progress through the educational system, academic demands begin to increase with higher order skills and advanced concepts. Students with learning disabilities are at risk for falling behind and may require explicit instruction to assist with comprehending text and producing written work. Here is some information on using graphic organizers for students with learning disabilities.

What are graphic organizers?

Graphic organizers are visual and spatial displays that make associations between related facts and concepts more noticeable. The goal of graphic organizers is to encourage more meaningful learning and promote understanding and retention of new material by making abstract concepts more concrete and connecting new information with previous knowledge.

The five types of graphic organizers

There are 5 different types of graphic organizers that have been researched for students with learning disabilities.

1. Cognitive mapping: helps with making major ideas and relationships explicit by using
"lines, arrows, and spatial arrangements to describe text content, structure, and key conceptual relationships". This type helps to connect ideas and written language. Make sure the students minimize sentences and details for cognitive mapping.

2. Semantic mapping: helps students to recognize key information from class and written text, delete nonrelevant details and highlight important concepts. Students and teachers work together to create the visual representation indicating the relationships among concepts.

3. Semantic Feature Analysis: A matrix is used to represent the related concepts to highlight the key information.

4. Syntactic/Semantic Feature Analysis: In addition to using the Semantic Feature Analysis this type of graphic organizer adds fill in the blank type sentences based on the matrix using new vocabulary words.

5. Visual Display: associations between concepts are made apparent and clear by their location on the display using timelines, decision trees, flowcharts, taxonomies, Venn diagrams, etc.

Research about using graphic organizers to help students with learning disabilities

A research review was conducted on using graphic organizers to help students with learning disabilities. The results indicated the following:

there was a large overall standardized effect of using graphic organizers on the posttest performance of students with learning disabilities across all studies in the research review.

there was a medium overall effect indicating that the effects were maintained over a period of 1-4 weeks following the post-test.

large posttest effects were found for all types of graphic organizers except visual displays (had a moderate effect).

large posttest effects were found for all subjects areas except mathematics (moderate effect).

science had a significantly larger maintenance effect compared to math and social studies.

graphic organizers were effective for improving factual recall, factual and relational comprehension, and vocabulary knowledge.

graphic organizers were moderately effective for applying knowledge to situations not directly covered in the text or lecture.

The researchers concluded that graphic organizers are more effective on posttest, maintenance, and transfer measures. Combining the use of graphic organizers will improve the learning process for upper-elementary, middle and high school students with learning disabilities.

Reference: Dexter, D. D., & Hughes, C. A. (2011). Graphic organizers and students with learning disabilities: A meta-analysis. Learning Disability Quarterly, 34(1), 51-72.

Read how to teach organizational skills to high school students.

Graphic Organizers for Students with Disabilities and Without

All students can benefits from graphic organizers to help look at the information in a more visual way.

This collection of Graphic Organizer Templates are visual and spatial displays that make associations between related facts and concepts more noticeable. It is available in printed and Google Slides format so you can use them digitally too! You will nee to make a copy of the Google slides to your Google Drive.
What Is Included in the Graphic Organizer Templates?
This collection includes 12 templates in different formats and a hand out on how to use graphic organizers and how they can help:

1. PRINT THE GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS - choose between the lined format or the blank format. Print the black and white pages for the students to use depending upon the skill, goal, or assignment.

2. USE THE DIGITAL VERSIONS WITH THE COLORED BACKGROUNDS - make a copy of the Google slides. Use in EDIT mode. Student can type directly in the light gray boxes.

3. USE THE DIGITAL VERSIONS AND STUDENTS CAN VARY THE BACKGROUNDS - make a copy of the Google Slides with the transparent backgrounds. Students can change the background of the slides to correspond with the assignment. Click SLIDE then CHANGE BACKGROUND.

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Graphic Organizers for Students with Learning Disabilities

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Students with learning disabilities are at risk for falling behind and may require explicit instruction to assist with comprehending text and producing written work. Here is some information on how to use graphic organizers to help students with learning disabilities.

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This is available on almost all devices. The application checks grammar, rephrases sentences, translates, reads text out loud, has a dictionary, and has a trainer to help teach proper writing.

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Ginger Software is an award-winning productivity-focused company that helps you write faster and better, thanks to grammar checker, punctuation, and spell checker tools which automatically detect and correct misused words and grammar mistakes. Ginger works with whichever device or platform you prefer. Just install the productivity app on your phone, tablet, or desktop and improve your communication skills immediately.

Write unique text and enrich existing sentences with the help of Ginger's sentence rephraser, and utilize the synonyms tool to replace boring words with script that's much more exciting.

Avoid embarrassing typos with the spelling book, and use all the features found on Ginger Page to improve your writing skills. Write fast without fear! Whether on your computer or using the keyboard app on your phone, Ginger will correct your mistakes for you.

Any time you're writing for business, sending an important email, or completing school assignments, you can use Ginger's writing tools to improve your vocabulary and prevent errors. Whether using the mobile keyboard typing app or your computer's keyboard, Ginger is the best writing solution and productivity tool available.

Use our grammar rules to ensure that your writing is as accurate as it can be. Once you're finished, use our proofreader to check for mistakes with a single click or tap.

Improve your communication skills with our dictionary, translations, and text reader, no matter what you're writing. Ginger Software products are suitable for both native English speakers and speakers of English as a Second Language (ESL). Write with confidence, enhance your language skills, and never worry about mistakes again.

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Ginger Software is an award-winning productivity-focused company that helps you write faster and better, thanks to grammar checker, punctuation, and spell checker tools which automatically detect and correct misused words and grammar mistakes. Ginger works with whichever device or platform you prefer.

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WordQ is a google chrome app made for Chromebook. The app works with all google applications such as docs and can also work offline. The app provides speech to text and provides word prediction when correcting misspellings.

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Dragon has created a mobile app to allow its users to do everything they would do on their computers on the go and quickly.

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Now available for your Android & iOS mobile device

Dragon ® Anywhere professional-grade mobile dictation makes it easy to create documents of any length, edit, format and share them directly from your mobile device-whether visiting clients, a job site, or your local coffee shop.

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Access customized words and auto-text across all devices

Share documents by email, Dropbox, Evernote and more

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Dragon ® Anywhere professional-grade mobile dictation makes it easy to create documents of any length, edit, format and share them directly from your mobile device-whether visiting clients, a job site, or your local coffee shop.

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In order to use this app you must be using a Chrome as your search engine. But the app is also available in the IOS app store.

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Word prediction that is grammar smart and inventive spelling aware. Speech recognition allows you to speak it, and we'll write it.

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This application provides predictive writing, speech recognition, flex spelling, and testing for standardized tests.

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Co:Writer kickstarts the writer inside and offers the most complete writing toolkit to help unstick ideas and get them to flow in writing.

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Reading rockets provides different low-tech/ not-tech tools to use to help students with writing.

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The website provides very easy adaptations for low-tech writing such as slanted boards and pencil groups.

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This iOS app was designed with consultation from Occupational Therapist to help improve fine motor skills in the hands to in turn help with writing. The app has three different types of games: tapping objects, pinching objects together, and finally tracing letters.

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Dexteria turns your iOS device into a therapeutic tool that improves fine motor skills and handwriting readiness in children and adults.

Dexteria's unique hand and finger activities take full advantage of the iOS multi-touch screen to help build strength, control, and dexterity. The app's efficacy is supported by independent research studies, including a 2016 study by Huntington University published in the Journal of Hand Therapy.

* Increases coordination and motor control in the hands and fingers

* Works for kids and adults

* Automatically creates performance and usage reports that can be emailed

* Speeds recovery from injuries and stroke

* Designed in consultation with Occupational Therapists

* Turns the iPad into a therapeutic tool

For best therapeutic results the exercises should be done on a regular basis in short sessions. The exercises are designed to be repeatable and engaging.

The automatic tracking and reporting feature makes it easy for parents, teachers and occupational therapists to identify time on task and progress. You can email the progress reports right from the app itself.

Multi-user tracking is available as an in-app purchase. (Note to Volume Purchase Program customers: Consider buying Dexteria VPP instead. It includes multi-user tracking and you will pay a lower net cost than if you buy Dexteria and upgrade each copy via the in-app purchase. Just search "Dexteria VPP" in the app store.)

*****
"Very impressed with this app. I've been looking for something like this for a very long time." - from Apps for Children with Special Needs

"For occupational therapists, the one huge benefit is the ability to track the child's progress." - from YourTherapySource.com

Editor's Choice Award from Children's Technology Review

"Outstanding app and I highly recommend it. Children are very motivated to use it. I'm a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and I use it to work on fine motor integration, fine motor precision, hand exercises, handwriting, writing speed, etc." - Authentic app store review
*****

ATTENTION LICENSED OTs: If you are a licensed OT and have comments about Dexteria, please submit a review and tell us what we did right and where we can improve. We will respond to your comments in the form of free upgrades with product improvements. You can influence the evolution of Dexteria!

We're serious about your privacy. This app does not track or share your personal information with us or anyone else. There is no user id tracking software, and no advertisements. In summary, we have no idea who you are! :-)

Version 1.3.6

Good

Good app for pre warm ups working with students who have handwriting difficulties as well as develop manipulation skills. I'm an OT and cannot wait to try this on my students. Have tried this on my 5 year old and loves it!

OT's need this app!

Dexteria - Fine Motor Skill Development is one of the mainstays in an OT's toolbox for teaching kids how to write. Why? Because it looks at learning to write from a developmental point of view. If kid's hands are not prepared to write- meaning the musculature is not there, then they can't control a writing utensil to form letters - Period. Dexteria has 2 games to develop hand skills before the third tracing the letters. The first game "Tap it", helps warm up the hand and introduces isolating the fingers, motor planning and sequencing. Using your thumb as an anchor each finger is called upon to tap a colored triangle. It's sort of like the light up memory game, but for fingers. The second game, "Pinch it" helps develop thumb and index control by picking up first little crabs that are stationary, and then stepping it up to moving targets. Finally, after giving the hands a brief wake up, tracing the letters are introduced. I love how every aspect of this app is thought out, from color schemes to activities. All modes can be translated to off screen games to refine these skills with real life manipulatives, which is the point of using an app for therapy. Data for accuracy and speed can be tracked and there is an in app purchase to expand data collection for unlimited users. Recommended.

One of the best Apps I have ever bought!

My son is 7 and has DS and therefore fine motor skill engagement is necessary. He also has ADHD making his attention span even on medication short. We have been working on other apps using his fingers to draw letters, but this app has it all! The pinch it program is incredibly awesome! My son worked on the pinch it for more than 10 minutes each setting and requested to play the app over and over. Though he doesn't recognize what the colors do, it keeps him occupied to see more and continually challenges him. At the end of each level he screams "I WIN!!" I would say this is a must have to practice fine motor skills!

Information

Compatibility

Requires iOS 6.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

Languages

English, French, Simplified Chinese, Spanish

Copyright

© 2011-2016 BinaryLabs, Inc.

In-App Purchases

Dexteria Multi-User $3.99

Family Sharing

With Family Sharing set up, up to six family members can use this app.

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‎Dexteria - Fine Motor Skill Development

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‎Dexteria turns your iOS device into a therapeutic tool that improves fine motor skills and handwriting readiness in children and adults. Dexteria's unique hand and finger activities take full advantage of the iOS multi-touch screen to help build strength, control, and dexterity. The app's efficacy...

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Reading Rockets provides a list of different AT supports which are organized by goal. Each AT is linked to the website where the device can be purchased or downloaded.

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Learn about assistive technology tools - from abbreviation expanders to word-recognition software programs - that address your child's specific writing difficulties.

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This pen allows its user to take notes with ease. While writing notes the pen records what is being said and all of it is sent to your computer. This allows the user to go back and fill in any missing notes or even just better rehear what was said.

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Designed for use with the Echo smartpen, the Echo Desktop companion software application enables you to easily store, organize, replay and share your interactive notes.

Available for: Windows 7 or later | macOS X 10.8.5 or later

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Echo is an ink and audio enableed smartpen pen that digitally captures everything you write and hear. The audio can be played back on the pen without the need for an additional device. Works with a desktop application to transfer notes and recorder audio.

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This resource provides information on different writing tools like your typical pencil grip and what makes it unique.

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Some children with disabilities may not be able to hold a standard pen or pencil. Others may be able to hold a standard pen or pencil but may have a great deal of difficulty using the pen or pencil to write. Ergonomic pens and pencils are designed to be easier for the child to hold and utilize. They come in different weights and shapes. Heavy weighted pens can help children with coordination difficulties write. Fatter pens and pencils may be easier to grip. Writing utensils with rubber grips are easier to hold on to. Some children may find large pens and pencils easier to hold and grip. Other children may find small pens and pencils easier to hold and grip. Allow the child to experiment with various writing devices, so they can determine which one is most suitable for them. Also have the child experiement with holding the writing utensils in different ways. For example, some children may have more success when holding a pen between the middle and forefingers.

There is a wide variety of asstitive handwriting aids on the market. The following sections list some of the popular models.

Pen Again

The Pen Again is an ergonomic pen that has a "U" shape at the top of the pen. The forefinger rests inside the "U" shape. The Pen Again shape requires less hand strength to use the pen. Less grip is needed to control the pen because the forefinger rests in the "U" shape and naturally holds the pen in place without requiring hand grip. Pen Again is also coming out with a child size ergonomic pencil for smaller hands.

Because the Pen Again has a much different shape and requires a different grip than a standard pen, it takes time to get used to writing with it. With practice, the Pen Again can make writing easier.

Ring Pen

The Ring Pen is similar to the Pen Again. Instead of a "U" shape at the top, the Ring Pen has a circle that the forefinger goes inside. The pen is worn like a ring and requires no grip when writing.

Wanchick Hand-Based Writer

The Wanchick Hand-Based Writer is a tool that is worn on the hand. It fits around the base of the hand and the forefinger. The part on the forefinger has a loop where a pen or a pencil is inserted. The Hand-Based Writer requires minimal grip and strength. Children that do not have the strength or coordination to hold onto a pen or pencil might benefit from this tool. Since it is worn on the hand, the pen or pencil can not be accidentally dropped.

EZ Grip

The EZ Grip is a rubber grip that can be slipped on most pens and pencils. The softness of the EZ Grip reduces hand pain when writing. Pen grip and writing coordination may be easier for some children using the EZ Grip due to increased diameter of the pen.

Other Ergonomic Writing Tools

Electronic devices are a good alternative to ergonomic handwriting aids for children who do not have the strength or coordination to use pens and pencils. Some children have more success typing on a keypad such as one on a laptop computer. Another option is to use transcription software such as Dragon Naturally Speaking.

References

Cumberland County College; Assisstive Technology Handbook; 2009

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Writing Tools for Special Needs Students: Assistive Devices for Success

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Ergonomic pens and pencils are useful assistive technology tools to help students write. The special designs of the pens and pencils make it easier for the children to hold and maneuver. Assistive pens come in different sizes, shapes, in different weights and with different types of grips.

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This app is a great way to have students write stories using online comic strips.

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FREE Comic, Storyboard & Graphic Novel Maker | Pixton

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Slant boards are a great no-tech tool that allow for students to write. They promote concentration, better posture, and are easier on the eyes.

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Increase the comfort of students struglling with writing assignments with supportive slant boards that provide a better angle at which to write.

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This iPad/iPhone app has the learner practice tracing letters, numbers, shapes, and words. This is great when teaching the basics of writing early on.

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this is a great app. my son has autism and he has a very difficult time imitating people writing or tracing letters, lines, or shapes. however he understood the concept of this app and follows the tracing very well. he gets a big smile on his face when he finishes a shape or word. he's proud of himself and i'm proud of him too :)

only problem: my son is left handed and for the letter "o" he would like to make the stroke clockwise instead of counterclockwise, but the app marks that as "incorrect" and makes him restart tracing the letter. It'd be great if there can be a "left handed option" here but "o" is the only letter that my son consistently would get "wrong." the stroke also affects letters like b, d, p, g but i dont know if theres a preferred way leftys write those letters that might be different from rightys. (im a righty and my son is a very inexperienced lefty so i dont know much about leftys)

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little writer - the tracing app for kids

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‎Little Writer - The Tracing App for Kids

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‎"I have tried them all and this is my and my kids favorite tracing app bar none!" Endorsed by tens of thousands of satisfied parents, teachers, and kids the world over. Little Writer is a tracing app that's done just right. Little Writer is super fun and so easy to use that your kids will think...

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The table provides different tools and strategies for different types of writing needs.

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While a long video (1 hour), it provides a vast amount of different tools to assist in writing. Each tool is explained in detail and demoed.

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Center on Technology and Disability (CTD)

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Assistive Technology (AT) Tools for Writing

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This 8 minute video provides a brief overview of low-tech and high-tech tools available. They also model how to use each tool and why it is important.

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Assistive Technology Solutions for Writing

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For more information, please visit us at: www.gatfl.org

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Grammarly is a Google product that provides AI assistance in writing on computer devices. The program works with most websites and applications on Windows and macOS. Grammarly has both a basic application you can download that only provides "critical grammar and spelling checks" and a premium option which costs a monthly fee. The premium option provides advanced checks for punctuation, grammar, context, and sentence structure, vocabulary enhancement suggestions, genre-specific writing style checks, and plagiarism. According to google, 85% of users are now stronger writers.

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Grammarly allows me to get those communications out and feel confident that I'm putting my best foot forward. Grammarly is like a little superpower, especially when I need to be at 110%."

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The LDRFA provides information on how to access free speech to text on multiple devices and programs.

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Speech to text is very useful and surprisingly useless at times. It is very empowering to young students who, because of dysgraphia or dyslexia, have a very hard time writing even simple sentences when they want to tell a much bigger story. It can be very useful for students who are searching on the Internet. However, strange mistakes can happen and cause frustration.

Later, in MS, HS and college, using speech to text to successfully write something as complex as a paper requires quite a bit of Executive Functioning. Planning out the sequence of your ideas, and speaking in complete, fluent sentences is difficult.

And because speech to text doesn't always "understand" what you mean, for all ages, you definitely need to have a text to speech program, or some kind of playback functionality to read your work back to you to make sure it says what you wanted it to!

Free Speech to Text:

Now it's part of your Operating System or Browser

Mac - in Settings under Accessibility

iPad - Siri or microphone icon

iPhone - Siri or microphone icon

Windows - in Control Panel under Ease of Access

Android - Settings - Language and Input

Chrome - Add Extensions then turn them on

Firefox- none

Explorer - none, but can use Windows extension

Nuance Software's Dragon software

Dragon app for iOS or Android - free - needs wifi

Dragon Anywhere for iOS or Android allows you to use Speech to Text and save documents so you can work anywhere across devices.

Nuance Software (Dragon Naturally Speaking for PC, DragonDictate for Mac)

Wifi not needed, it installs on computer

Specific vocational packages available

Builds a personal voice profile to overcome accent or speech impediment issues.

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Speech to text is very useful and surprisingly useless at times. It is very empowering to young students who, because of dysgraphia or dyslexia, have a very hard time writing even simple sentences when they want to tell a much bigger story. It can be very useful for students who are searching on the Internet.