Assistive Technology Support for Reading

We have explored many different uses of AT helping identified students reach achievement in social, physical, functional and other needs.  

Another aspect now to consider is the struggles many face in the subject of Reading.  

Due to this common existence, strategies to support those affected using Assistive Technology have been developed.

Tools for Life is a very interesting company under Georgia’s Assistive Technology Act Program that provides awareness and information about AT for all persons in Georgia.  Recently, on their website a Webinar was held on the topic of Assistive Technology for Reading.  

I found the presentation to be extremely informative and the overall message of “promoting access to reading success through AT assistance” was admirable.

Some notes and effective tips which I scribed during the viewing are shared below

• look for electronic text on the internet or scan hard copies into technology
• Bookshare.org membership is helpful for teachers, schools and districts to access an abundant electronic library
• students with print disabilities benefit from this site as they can download books and have the text read-aloud to them via the computer screen and speaker system
• accommodations with students who read Braille are also available!
• Text to speech is also a supportive task that promotes student comprehension
• it is imperative that this practice be modeled, taught and performed often by students
• the application of defining terms in the presented readings is also helpful

I encourage you too to view this Webinar!  

To access, go to http://www.gatfl.gatech.edu/tflwiki/index.php?title=Webinar_Archives 

Select reading Webinar : “Assistive Technology for Reading”

“When choosing the right assistive technology tool....the choice is yours!”

- Shonda Golden, author and Webinar host