Journal 9: Assistive Technology (NETS-T 4)

Communication -1 no/low tech and 1 high tech:


AAC or Augmentative and Alternative Communication is communication that isn’t oral. People with speech or language problems rely on this method to communicate their thoughts, needs, and wants. There are low tech and high tech tools in order to communicate.

A low tech aid doesn’t use batteries and isn’t electronic. These are simple aids that include pictures or books, letters, phrases, or symbols. An example of a low tech AAC device is the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS).  This was originally created for people with autism in 1985.  Individuals are taught how to communicate using pictures.  They use pictures to communicate what they want.  They start off using single pictures, then overtime, build-up to using pictures to make sentences and answer questions.

 

 

A high tech aid would be the Dynavox V+ device.  This device has a voice output system.  A voice output device talks for you.  It allows people to communicate using a computerized voice. This helps nonverbal communicators to be better understood. 
 
 
Accessibility- 1 hardware and 1 software option:
It is important to try to include students with special needs in the classroom.  Technology is becoming more readily available to teachers, making it more accessible to students with special needs.  These programs not only can benefit students with special needs, but can benefit the whole classroom environment. 


One hardware option could be the Tobii eye tracker.  The Tobii eye tracker is an input device that helps students with disabilities. This device allows students to use the computer by using their eyes.  The computer tracks the users eyes and enables them to navigate the computer and write without physically touching the screen.

One software option could be something called intillikeys.  This program plugs into the computer's USB port. This allows teachers to create their own keyboards in order to meet their student's specific needs.  Students can work on math, reading, writing, art, and email. There is also personal touch control and extra support for problem areas like low vision and fine motor skills.