Using Assistive Technology for Literacy Development
By Wepner, Shelley B.; Bowes, Kathleen A.; Reading and Writing Quarterly, Vol. 20, No. 2, pp. 219-223Publication Date: April 2004
Article provides an overview of a number of assistive technology (AT) devices that can help to meet the literacy education needs of students with disabilities. IntelliKeys from IntelliTools, Incorporated is an alternative keyboard that consists of a flat sensor board with overlays that help students use the Internet and other software devices. The most commonly used overlay has the letters arranged alphabetically, which would make them more recognizable than a QWERTY layout. A number of other alternate input devices are available. For example TouchWindow from Edmark is a clear glass frame that allow student to touch objects on the computer screen instead of using a mouse to point and click. Actual story reading programs are discussed as Bailey’s Book House from Edmark features Bailey the Cat, who presents five different activities that allow students with special needs to explore the sounds and meanings of letters, words, rhymes, and stores. The program can be used with touch screens, alternative switches, or overlays.
Assistive Products Discussed: TOUCHWINDOW
INTELLIKEYS
BAILEY'S BOOK HOUSE
Published by: Taylor & Francis, Limited (Website:http://taylorandfrancis.org)
