Types of Assistive Technology
Here are some Ergonomic Tips for the home office
There is also a free ergonomic assessment. We think we know the 90/90/90 rule but it’s always good to check in.
Note taking can be audio visual or a combination of both. Widows 7 and the Apple have Sticky Note capability built in. Other portable devices allow you to synchronize an audio recording with the things you are simultaneously writing with a SmartPen.
- Windows 7 Sticky Notes
Open Sticky Notes by tapping the Start button. In the search box, type Sticky Notes, and then tap it when it appears. Use a keyboard or stylus to hand write on your sticky note. - Apple OSX Stickies
Open the Apple menu, then select Stickies. If a blank note doesn't appear, open the File menu and select New Note (or press Command-N). Type or write on your note. - LiveScribe SmartPen
Syncs your hand writing to its audio recording. - Adobe Acrobat
Allows you to annotate and comment on PDF files that have been made searchable. Here is a video tutorial: http://youtu.be/Y_XQv4Q33CE - Diigo
A web annotating and highlighting solution for many platforms. You can use the online cloud storage, take screen shots, or download to your device to view later. - Digital Voice Recorders
Ask Doug Digital Recorder Matrix is designed to help you think about your recording needs. - How to Choose a Voice Recorder
This is an informative article from eBay.
Organizing
This software usually allows you to reorganize material in a way that you can most easily remember and used it. Often free form software that allows you to drag and drop items, insert multimedia and click anywhere to start typing.
- Evernote - Collect and find things for all platforms (PC, MAC, Mobile). It’s web storage of captured information for keeping you organised. It needs an internet connection to store your captures like business cards, photos, videos, voice memos and then organize and search them. (Dotto Tech video: "5 Favorite Features".)
- OneNote
Brain Storming or Mind Mapping
These products allow you to create a graphical representation of ideas. Then convert the brainstorm into a text outline so that writing and ideas can be easily generated and a draft outline created. People like this feature because it’s easy express ideas and connect them visually. We remember information that we see or do graphically more than linear text.
- Blog article on the differences between a few Free products:
http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/mac/mind-mapping-with-mindnode-for-the-mac/616 - FreeMind
http://freemind.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page - Inspiration
http://www.inspiration.com/Curriculum-Integration/Inspiration - MindNode
http://www.mindnode.com - MindView
Info: http://www.matchware.com/education/mindview.htm
Videos: http://www.matchware.com/en/products/mindview/education/tutorials.htm - Personal Brain
http://www.thebrain.com/products/personalbrain - Steve Dotto discovers Mind Mapping
View a video intro to the concept mapping and his take on a free product called MindMup
Screen Readers and Text to Speech
Screen Readers provide access to electronic information for people with vision loss or difficulty reading. With screen readers you can read text on the screen in most popular applications including productivity software (MS Office), web browsers, operating system interfaces, programming and a variety of languages.
Screen Readers read everything on the screen in a synthetic voice. They read the text in popular applications, menus, error messages, assisting users to navigate pages by headings, tables, lists, buttons, form controls, read by line, character, word or paragraph, and hear what you type. Many people find it useful to learn keyboard shortcuts to control this software rather than use the mouse.
Text to Speech software typically needs a mouse user to select text to be read aloud.
Read Text Aloud in MS-Office Documents (Windows)
If you just want to read text typed in MS Office documents there is a Speech feature you can activate. It reads aloud any text you select in the document. It can be activated by keyboard shortcut or a button in the Quick Access Toolbar at the top of the application. This feature is available in Microsoft Office 2013, 2016 and of course O365.
- Click the dropdown arrow button on the right Quick Launch tool bar.
- GO to More Commands in the submenu
- Choose Quick Access Toolbar
- Then under Commands select All Commands
- In addition, scroll down the alphabetic list to Speak or click in the box and type S to jump to commands that start with S.
- Then click Add and Speak moves over to the other box where common used Quick Access commands are.
- Then click OK.
Now when you select text you can click the Speak Selection icon in the QA toolbar and it will read aloud.
On Windows Computers:
- NVDA is a free screen reader that supports refreshable braille displays too. Check its FAQ about which applications are supported. It has many reading features similar to high end screen readers that you pay hundreds of dollars for.
- Narrator is built into Microsoft Windows and provides screen reading for popular programs and most of the Windows interface.
- System Access To Go works in Internet Explorer (IE) and is a free product once launched from its website. Check its FAQ about which applications are supported.
On Apple Devices:
- Speak Text Aloud on Your Mac another built-in Accessibility feature of OSX
- Speak Text on your iOS Device Have your IOS device speak the screen, selected text, and typed text
- VoiceOver is built into OS/X 10.6 and higher. Most text on the screen is read aloud and keyboard navigation keys are used for controlling VO instead of a mouse. The text to speech voice included on Apple devices is really quite nice. VO changes the way your track pad or touch screen gestures function so learn commands with VoiceOver to avoid frustration
- VoiceOver on iOS Devices (iPads, iPhones, iPod Touch, AppleTV)
read&write for AU Students and Staff
read&write is a floating toolbar that operates on different platforms to provide tools for reading, studying and writing:
- scan (TWAIN scanner not included)
- e-highlight documents (MS-Word, PDF, web)
- export highlights to MS-Word document
- text to speech reading aloud
- make audio files
- decoding tools
Details about features can be found on the TextHELP website or video links found in the installation guide. You need your Athabasca University Office 365 email address to license read&write to your device.
If you require further information, contact the AT Team at AT@athabascau.ca or call the ASD office.
Other Reading and Annotating Technology
Reading Pens – there are a variety of hand held reading pens that can scan line by line and read text aloud to you, provide definitions, translate to a different language such as the ReaderPen or CPen.
LiveScribe Echo Pen & SmartPens provide siamtaneous audio recording which is synched to your hand written notes on special coded paper. Just tap on your notes and the audio recording at that time plays back.
Many of these software have the following features to assist in reading:
- Dual modality highlighting by word, sentence, or paragraph
- Read aloud in a synthetic but human sounding voice
- Using the mouse select text and have it read aloud
- Colored Highlighting and extraction of highlights to a word processor document
- Mind mapping
- Annotation of e-text – audio, column, bubble, or sticky notes
- Convert text to audio file for listening on the go
- Scan in your paper documents and convert them to e-text for reading
Natural Reader a FREE Windows & Apple floating toolbar to read selected text aloud. Or, copy and paste text into its text reader. The paid versions can also convert text to an mp3 audio file.
Kurzweil 3000 for Windows or Mac provide the most features you will find in one software product for reading, writing, organising ideas, and annotating documents. A trial version is available from their website.
Talking Web Browsers & Plug Ins
- ATBar – a floating toolbar in Windows or a browser plug-in that has text-to-speech for reading aloud, screen colour and font customisation, as well as word prediction and spell check for writing when working in web browsers.
- STEMReader – reads aloud basic math text when found in web browsers. The subscription version reads complex math. Hear equations read aloud and see the transcript on screen. Break down equations into simple chunks to make them easier to understand. Check the meaning of unfamiliar symbols.
Zoom Text on the Screen
Most applications have a zoom feature which allows you to enlarge the size of the print on the screen. This works in internet browsers, some word processors, Adobe and more applications. It does not enlarge error messages or menus. Try it and you will see!
- Press the CONTROL key and the PLUS SIGN (+) on your numeric keypad to enlarge text. Press CONTROL and the MINUS SIGN (-) to decrease print size.
- Similarly the CONTROL key pressed while scrolling the mouse scroll wheel up or down will also alter the size of the text larger or smaller depending on the direction the wheel is turned.
- On an Apple computer hold down the Apple key and hit + or -. You can also double tap the track pad and a 2x zoom will be applied to that window.
- Make Windows 10 easier to see
- On a mobile device screen use a pinch open gesture with two fingers
Magnification Software
On Windows Computers
Use Microsoft Windows built in Magnifier to see everything on the screen magnified, adjust themes and filters to see your screen better.
Pay For Magnification Software (Windows):
On Apple Products:
Activate the Apple OSX Zoom feature
Zoom all text on your iOS device screen
Pay For Magnification Software (on mac):
- ZoomText for Mac (has no text to speech feature)
Reduce Glare & Screen Masking
Dimming parts of the screen helps to maintain focus and reading place, much like a ruler or following your finger on a printed page. There are software tools to mask or dim parts of the screen when reading e-text.
- f.lux a free electronic screen overlay adjusts screen brightness (warm or cool)
- MyStudyBar has screen masking, magnifying glass, text reading, brainstorming and task list along with much more. Not bad for a free Windows program.
Reducing Internet Distractions
These tools are helpful for assisting you to concentrate on the content of a website by featuring that content in an easy-to-read, clutter-free, scrollable display.
- Anti-Social allows you to block distracting social media apps like Facebook or Twitter, or YouTube. It costs $15 and has a money back guarantee. It works on Apple and Windows systems.
- Evernote Clearly: available as an add-on for Firefox and Chrome browsers; articles can be synced to user's Evernote account.
- Freedom allows you to disable your internet connection for up to 8 hours to avoid distractions when you just need to get down to work. If you need to get on-line you need to reboot your system. There are versions for Apple OSX, Windows and Android.
- For both iReader for Firefox and iReader for Chrome browser add-ons; when you comes to a web page that is identified as an article, the iReader icon appears on the address bar.
E-text & Audio Books
- Audible.com
- Audio Archive
- BookShare
- Google Books
- Learn Outloud
- Librivox
- Literature Network
- Project Guttenberg
- Read How You Want
Mobile Apps for Online Learning
The ASD Mobile App Selection Tool (MAST) was created to assist students to select apps by category of learning skill (reading, writing, memory, etc.) that may enhance your learning on a mobile device. These apps were chosen by AU peers with disabilities during a research project trying to determine effective apps. Sign up and provide comments and suggestions so we can keep MASTZ up to date.
If you have questions about these resources contact the ASD Assistive Technologist
- Gramarly - this is a product that has mtuliple uses in context of writing better: contextual spelling, word similarities, a plagiarism checker and more. You can also acquire an Add-in for MS Word or an extension for the Firefox web browser
- Ginger – is software that incldues grammar checker, sentence paraphrase, dictionary, text reader and a mobile fun keyboard
- Franklin Talking Dictionaries (many found on Amazon or eBay now)
- iStudiez is a cross platform application that helps you organize tasks, assignments and calendars. It syncs between your computer and mobile device so you always stay up to date.
- Time Tracker is web-based, easy to use time tracker software.
- Toodledo An app that allows you to set up tasks and prioritize them. Great for project management.
- TrackClass helps you get your school work organized. From reminders to notes to assignments and grades, you'll be on top of your studies! (Free resource)
- Seven Organization Tools for Students
- Todo.ly - easy to use online to-do list
- Rescue Time -web-based time tracking software to promote focus and productivity. Offers graphs and visual support. The Lite version is free
- VideoNot.es - take notes synced to video
- Bubble Timer - A simple time tracker to keep on task and see how much time it takes to complete tasks. Free for 14 days.
- Remember the Milk - Online task list. Syncs with Android phones, iPhone, iPod Touch, etc. Has quick input and reminders to do tasks (type "put books in bag Sunday 3pm" and it will remind you to put your books in your bag on Sunday at 3pm
- Pocket Mod - Free, recyclable personal organizer and study guide, can be used in a variety of ways
- Diigo - Use the highlighting and extract annotations tools to collect important information for later review.
- Text Compactor - When text needs to be summarized, use this online tool. Great for cognitive rescaling.
- Eyejot - "Video messaging in a blink," video email tool
Writing software helps you increase the speed at which you type.
Hand Writing Recognition
Tablets are proving useful for their portability and connectivity. Hand writing recognition has been around for a long time but it now has become more portable and affordable through the use of tablets and smart phones. Some one with hand motor challenges may find these blogs useful.
On a computer:
- How to Use the Ink Equation Feature in Office 2016 to Write Equations
- For a PC you will either need a Tablet PC or a stylus writing tool such as one from Wacom
On a tablet or smart phone:
- A Macademise blog that compares 3 iPad apps (7NotesHD, NotesPlus, WritePad):
Voice Dictation/Recognition
Voice Dictation/Recognition Voice recognition requires a few considerations before undertaking it. It requires patience to use it and the ability to correct mistakes, a clear voice pattern with minimal accent or environmental noises. Voice recognition today analyses words in context and predicts the best fit.
There are a variety of options that have no cost, depending on the platform you are wanting to dictate:
For purchase software is also an option. Dragon Naturally Speaking is the leader in voice dictation and it runs on Windows. They have discontinued support for their Mac and mobile product.
Word Prediction
A window on the screen follows the typing cursor and tries to predict the word you are typing. The goal is to minimize keystrokes. Custom vocabulary lists can be imported and some software can read the words aloud to help in comprehension.
Word prediction considerations include:
- Is typing uncomfortable or slow?
- Are you able to not be lead in content by the prediction window?
Where to Find It: In many applications simply start typing and press either F5 or the Esc key
Mouse and Keyboard Alternatives
This type of assistive technology software and hardware require website and application developers to ensure keyboard functionality and keep accessibility guiding principles in mind.
Windows has an on-screen keyboard built in.
OptiKey is an on-screen keyboard for Windows. It is to be used with an eye-tracking device to bring keyboard control, mouse control and speech to people with motor and speech limitations, such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Motor Neuron Disease (MND), Multiple Sclerosis or similar conditions. Check out www.OptiKey.org for more info and to download.
Eye Tracking Systems involve a camera mounted on a monitor or head born headset which monitors eye movement. The learnt eye gestures control the cursor or pointer and may be difficult.
There are various other hardware and software devices, less complicated such as:
- on-screen keyboards
- mouse alternatives
- A different shape or size of keyboard can also make typing more comfortable and functional
- Some people use word prediction or Voice Recognition to make the typing less onerous. One of the most well-known users of on-screen keyboards with speech output and eye tracking technology is Dr. Stephen Hawking
Graphing on a Computer
- FunctionVisualizer - Online Function Visualizer - displays the graph of arbitrary F(x) function
- GraphCalc - Online Graphing Calculator
- Create A Graph
- e-Tutor Graphic Calculator Graph equations
- MathGrapher - Online Graphing Calculator
- Graph
- Audio MmathTrax - accessible Graphing Calculator commonly used by blind students
- Audio Graphing Calculator $360
- Write Math Equations in Office 2016 tutorial (website)
MathML Plug Ins for Reading & Viewing MathML
Be sure to use Internet Explorer 8, 9 or 10.
- MathPlayer by Design Science - making math speak
When accessibility is considered in the design of products many people benefit from it because of its universal appeal in greater view ability, comprehension of content and expression of ideas. The device becomes engaging.
Apple Devices
There are many iOS accessibility features built into Apple devices that can assist with seeing, hearing, writing and ease of touch for controls. To mention a few such as Zoom, colour and font effects including shapes of buttons, hearing aid and vibration settings, caption and subtitle customisation, as well as AssistiveTouch or reachability for physical functionality.
Speech features need to be turned on in Settings > General > Accessibility > Speech. There are 2 methods to use this feature to read any text aloud:
- Speak Selection provides a “Speak” tool once you select text Instructions - iOS Speak Selection for iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch (PDF - 252KB)
- Speak Screen will read all text it finds on the screen when you swipe two fingers from the top to the bottom of the screen.
In Speech settings you can also Highlight Content when spoken and have Auto-text read.
VoiceOver is a complete screen reader built into iOS. It is typically used by someone who has severe vision loss or wants to have all text on the screen read aloud automatically such as menus, errors, and text in apps. Voiceover does change the finger Gestures of the device while it is activated. The text to speech voice included in Apple devices is quite nice and is customizable in Settings > General > Accessibility > VoiceOver. VoiceOver can read many semantic items when they are built into pages such as headings, form controls, ARIA landmark regions, links, lists, tables and more. An iOS device can also connect to a refreshable braille display and VoiceOver controls the text that is converted to Braille.
App Matrix - This is a compilation of many apps for Apple mobile devices that AU students with disabilities find useful. There are apps for time management, reading text, annotating, flash cards and more.
Android Devices
Since the release of Android 4.3 there have been a variety of improved accessibility features built into Android mobile OS such as TalkBack a functional screen reader, Magnification Gestures for zooming any screen, Invert Colour or change font features, and support for multimedia captions when they are provided.
You can easily access any feature by using the Power Switch Shortcut Key to toggle on or off various settings
Reading apps are very popular to have text read aloud. This Educators Technology Blog article from 2015 outlines the "4 Best Text to Speech Apps for Android" and is quite representative of current good offerings.
Accessibility Services and Published Research
The Accessibility Services Assistive Technologist, Carrie Anton and Dr. Linda Chmiliar conducted a research project that is published in various journals including The Journal on Technology and Persons with Disabilities
Findings were related to the use of the iPad as a Mobile Learning Tool for Students with Disabilities in post-secondary education. The iPad Project was very useful in the determination of a variety of apps chosen by students to be the most useful.
As follow up to the research, the iPad project still exists with the informative App Matrix Discovery Tool and the ongoing deployment of Accessibility Services owned apps and iPads to students for their use, especially for those who cannot acquire their own devices through funding or other sources.
For more information or to participate in mobile device initiatives, please contact the AU’s Assistive Technologist.
The aforementioned list is not all inclusive. The AT industry has a huge amount of technology solutions that should be paired with areas of impact from a disability. The AU Assistive Technologist can assist with the process of finding the technology that best suits your needs.
There are a couple do it yourself resources to find various technologies. Keep in mind they may not be current.
In 2015 AU staff conducted a participatory research project into apps that students with disabilities found useful. The Mobile App Selection Tool (MAST) was developed to share those resources. You can link your learning processes to app filters and register to borrow apps that are not free. This is not an inclusive list but helps to identify needs to apps. Visit the AUMAST to view apps or register for updates and contribute to our resource.
Updated January 11, 2021 by Student & Academic Web Services (sas@athabascau.ca)