• tools such as audiobooks, voice-to-text, and graphic organizers benefits all learners by supporting diverse learning styles and needs

Early Exposure to Technology is Valuable!

• Young children can benefit from technology expose when it's developmentally appropriate by building language skills, creativity, and critical thinking

Assistive Technology Builds Independence and Confidence!

• AT fosters independence for students with disabilities by helping them access the general curriculum in a way that is best suited for them and develop self-esteem

Assistive Technology Must Be Individualized and Thoughtfully Implemented!

• teachers need training and collaboration with specialists to help match tools to specific students in need

• AT is NOT one size fits all

Instructional Collaboration is Key!

• AT requires collaboration between teachers, specialists, students, and families to be effective

• Reading disabilities such as dyslexia

• Writing challenges, including dysgraphia

• Attention difficulties (e.g., ADHD)

• Language processing issues

• Organization and memory challenges

Specific classroom needs that could benefit from AT:

• A student who reads significantly below grade level could benefit from text-to-speech support.

• A student who struggles to express ideas in writing could use speech-to-text to participate more confidently.

• A student with ADHD might benefit from visual schedules or timers to support attention and task management.

• What it is:

  • A literacy support tool that works with Google Chrome, Microsoft Word, and other platforms. It offers text-to-speech, word prediction, picture dictionaries, and tools to support reading, writing, and research.

• When/How to Use It:

  • Reading: Students can use the text-to-speech function to listen to reading passages, improving fluency and comprehension.

  • Writing: Word prediction and speech-to-text help struggling writers organize their thoughts and produce clearer, longer written responses.

  • General Classroom: Great for both individual support and as a universal support option for all students, promoting equity.

2. ModMath

• What it is:

  • An iPad app designed for students with dysgraphia and other math-related learning challenges. It provides a digital graph paper interface where students can type math problems using a specialized keypad.

• When/How to Use It:

  • Math Instruction: Students who have trouble writing numbers legibly can use ModMath to complete assignments without frustration.

• Assessments: Useful during quizzes or tests to reduce handwriting barriers, ensuring the focus stays on mathematical thinking, not penmanship.

• General Ed Setting: Can be used during math rotations or small group work to support inclusivity and reduce embarrassment for students who struggle with handwriting.