Journal 8 - Adaptive Technology

Communication

Augmentative and Alternative Communication are all forms of speech (except oral) that people use to express ideas, thoughts, wants, and needs.  This can also include gestures, pictures, symbols, and writing.  The two types of AAC systems are unaided and aided, in which an individual either uses just their body to communicate or must rely on the help of tools or devices.  Children who have difficulty with their speech development often employ the help of aided AAC systems.  These can include either no/ low tech devices or high tech devices.

                The most common forms of no/low tech tools to help children express themselves are by use of graphic boards or gesturing and signing.  These can easily be implemented into the classroom because they are cost effective and do not take much time to explain how to use.  Graphic boards may be hung up against a wall or kept at a child’s desk for easy access, and the use of gesturing or signs can take place anytime there is a mutual non-verbal connection (such as eye contact) between the student and the teacher or other students.  These tools may be simple but can have a drastic and lasting impact on the child and their ability to communicate with others in an educational situation. 


                There are also some forms of high tech tools that can be helpful for children in expressing themselves.  One such device is a Voice Output Communication Aid (VOCA) which is a sort of recording device that uses digitized speech.  It is battery operated and can be used for single words or short phrases.  It works by incorporating pictures of objects over an area of buttons.  When these pictures are pressed, it plays back the recorded word or phrase that is linked to that graphic and is voiced aloud.  This can be used in the classroom for a student that has a speech impediment because it allows them to communicate effectively with the help of recorded dialogue, and also demonstrates the phonetics of how to pronounce words.  In this way, it can be used to help develop language as well as reinforce it for those with difficulties.

 

Accessibility

                An input device is a device that can be used to insert data into a computer or other computational device.  These can be common items in the technology world such as a computer mouse or keyboard.  However, for those with disabilities these can be difficult to use, so special devices have been created for those who may need extra help.  These can be either hardware or software options.

                For example, a hardware device that was created to help those with physical or visual impairments is the Bat Keyboard.  This is a one handed keyboard with limited keys that can replicate the function of a full keyboard with the added benefit of efficiency.  It works by creating simple key “chords” and combinations to type out all the letters and symbols that a regular keyboard offers, with either the left or right hand.  It is designed to reduce physical strain while typing and eliminates the need for recognizing lettering on a keyboard.  This tool can be used in the classroom by easily plugging into an existing computer for any child who needs assistance typing.

                An example of an assistive technology software program is TextAloud.  In this program, documents from the computer can be read out loud and also saved to common MP3 devices to be played back at a later time.  It can be used in the classroom to help children who have difficulty reading or have vision impairment.  TextAloud can read text from online books, documents that include project directions, e-mails with information, and more.  It is easy to use and easy to install on any computer.





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