Disability Assistive Technology And Learning Disabilities

For the most part, disability assistive technology was originally developed to help with other disabilities and has only recently been applied to learning disabilities. Low-tech assistive technology equipment includes such tools as highlighter's, while high-tech assistive technology products include special computer programs and other devices. Low-tech and high-tech assistive technology products are usually used in tandem to create a full range of assistive technology equipment that is personalized to the user's individual needs.

A big advantage of using disability assistive technology is that this solution acknowledges the learning disability and simply provides a workable alternative. Other programs attempt to "fix" the symptoms of a learning disability and so may be difficult or impossible to implement. Assistive technology products allow the user to quickly adapt to a workaround and move on with his or her life. It is important to note, however, that remedial programs should often be continued once assistive technology equipment is implemented. The disability assistive technology should be considered a means to an end rather than an end in itself.

Assistive technology for students with reading difficulties is generally a combination of low-tech and high-tech products. A colored highlighter can be used to mark words that look similar on a page, reminding the student to carefully attenuate to the differences. Software is available that will allow a computer to read back printed text on the screen, allowing students with reading difficulties to receive information orally. Similarly, pictures or DVDs may be used as an alternate means of providing information. Magnification or formatting changes may help students with learning disabilities differentiate text. Talking books or books in Braille may be another option.

Assistive technology for students with problems in writing generally involves computerized word processing applications. Spell check, grammar check, and other formatting tools can compensate for difficulties in writing development, while the typewritten format eliminates handwriting legibility concerns. Outlining software and voice recognition software can be helpful as well.

Dyscalculia, or math-related learning disability, can be especially difficult to treat. Assistive technology for students with dyscalculia generally involves specialized calculators. Calculators are available that are voice activated, read back processing steps one by one, and have large visual displays. Generally, a combination of speech synthesis, large font display, large buttons, and voice recognition will provide the most assistance.

Disability assistive technology has recently become popular as a means to assist people with learning disabilities. In order to provide maximum benefits to those with a learning disability, it is generally best to use assistive technology equipment in tandem with a remediation program. The remediation program will help to minimize the brain effects of the learning disability while the disability assistive technology helps to minimize the effects of the learning disability on daily living.