Assistive Technology In The Classroom

One tool that has become indispensable in modern classrooms is the use of assistive technology, which has revolutionized the way students with diverse learning needs engage with educational content. By definition, assistive technology is any device, software, or tool that improves the experience of learning for students with disabilities or challenges in the classroom. From simple low-tech solutions like graphic organizers and hands-on materials to sophisticated high-tech gadgets such as speech-to-text software, the benefits of using assistive technology have allowed students to overcome barriers and participate more fully in the learning process. 

Importance of AT in the Classroom

Assistive technology (AT) is any tool or device that helps students with learning challenges  ranging from dyslexia and ADHD to physical impairments. The technologies are designed to help students perform tasks that might otherwise be challenging or impossible for them. Whether it’s a simple pencil grip for fine-motor difficulties or a screen reader for a visually impaired learner, AT gives students with disabilities the opportunity to leverage their strengths and overcome obstacles. 

AT helps students reach their full potential, ensuring equal educational opportunities. When teachers use AT to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities, students are more likely to be engaged and successful during the learning process. This is because these tools make it easier for students to work with others, engage in a wide range of learning activities, and feel included in the classroom.

While assistive digital technologies are well-known, AT encompasses a broader range of tools and solutions, including traditional materials like paper-based resources. For example, some learners may benefit from using physical materials, such as paper for writing, instead of relying on digital devices. This balanced approach of incorporating print and technology in the classroom helps support individual student needs and promote inclusivity. 

Types of Assistive Technology

The goal of AT is to create a more inclusive space by removing barriers for students with disabilities. The types of assistive technology being used in classrooms today are: 

Low-Tech AT

Not all technology comes with a high price tag. Low-tech AT is typically nonelectronic or a simple tool that can be used to help students with diverse needs. These are the most common forms and often are already available in many classrooms. Although they are not complex, low-tech devices can sometimes make the biggest difference in student learning. Because low-tech does not require a power source, it is often the easiest and most practical solution. Some of the most common examples include: 

• Pencil Grips: To assist with fine-motor difficulties in maintaining a proper grip and facilitating neater handwriting.
• Raised Line Paper: To give sensory feedback for top and bottom lines. 
• Colored Overlays: To make reading more accessible for students with visual processing disorders.
• Highlighters: To help organize important information in texts.
• Manipulatives: To aid in hands-on learning and understanding of concepts.
• Calculators: To perform mathematical calculations efficiently.
• Large Print Books: To improve readability for individuals with visual impairments.
• Audiobooks and Podcasts: To provide access to written material for individuals with visual impairments or reading difficulties.
• Dictionaries: To support vocabulary building and language comprehension.
• Visual Timers: To visually track time and manage tasks.

High-Tech AT

High-tech AT refers to advanced electronic and computer-based tools designed to enhance the learning of students with diverse needs. These devices are not meant to take over the role of teaching. Instead, they are designed to help students with disabilities access the same learning materials and participate in assignments as their peers. 

A well-known high-tech AT is speech-recognition software, which enables students with physical disabilities or limited mobility to navigate computers and compose written work using voice commands. Another example is the electronic magnification device which assists students with visual impairments in accessing printed materials by enlarging text and images. Other instructional high-tech AT includes: 

• Computers: To provide specialized software, access to information, and other features to help perform tasks more effectively.
• Adaptive Keyboards: To accommodate different typing needs and improve typing accuracy. 
• Screen Reader: To convert text on a screen into speech.
• Voice Assistants: To perform tasks and retrieve information using voice commands.
• Mouse Alternatives: To provide alternatives for students with limited hand mobility.
• Word Prediction Programs: To suggest and complete words or phrases based on context.
• Interactive Whiteboards: To enhance collaboration and interactive learning.
• Smartphones or Tablets: To offer customizable accessibility features, touchscreen interfaces, and a wide range of apps to support communication, education, and daily tasks. 

Digital AT

Digital AT stands out for its versatility and adaptability. The possibilities for supporting diverse learners with digital AT are endless. These tools are particularly beneficial for students with executive-functioning disorders or ADHD, because they help them structure their thoughts and assignments effectively. 

One example of digital AT is text-to-speech (TTS) or speech-to-text (STT) software, which converts written text to spoken words or spoken words into written text. Whether it’s adjusting the color contrast or improving the readability of documents or text, most technology tools, such as laptops or smartphones, now have built-in accessibility functions to promote equitable learning. 

Benefits of Assistive Technology in the Classroom

AT positively impacts both students and educators because it reduces the need for constant teacher support or assistance. Whether it's through interactive learning apps, speech-to-text software, or audiovisual aids, AT allows students to use their strengths more effectively and find ways to work around areas where they may struggle. 

AT enhances the learning experience for all students by providing a wide range of educational resources and solutions that cater to various learning styles and preferences. The benefits of this technology integration include: 

• Enhanced Independence: Students can perform tasks they have otherwise required assistance with. 
• Increased Learning: Students with communication impairments are able to express themselves more effectively. 
• Social Inclusion: AT removes barriers and provides support, giving all students an opportunity to participate and contribute.  
• Customization: AT solutions provide personalized support to meet the specific needs of learners with disabilities. 
• Improved Accessibility: AT helps visually impaired students access digital information, read documents, and stay informed. 
• Increased Opportunities: Whether through low-tech or high-tech tools, students are provided with customized learning experiences that promote academic success. 

Assistive Technology Implementation Strategies

Understanding the unique requirements of each learner is fundamental when selecting the most suitable AT tools and techniques. Whether a student has visual impairments, dyslexia, physical disabilities, or other challenges, tailoring AT solutions to their specific needs ensures optimal support for their academic growth. 

To successfully incorporate AT into the classroom, it is important for teachers to collaborate with specialists, such as special education teachers, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists. These professionals bring valuable expertise and insight into the selection, implementation, and customization of AT solutions. Here are some ways teachers can implement assistive technology to accommodate students with diverse needs: 

• Closed Captioning: When showing videos, teachers may display built-in closed captioning or enable automatic captioning on learning platforms to support students who benefit from reading along with audio content. 
• Text-To-Speech Software: Text-to-speech software or apps can read aloud digital text materials, helping students with reading difficulties or visual impairments.
• Graphic Organizers: Graphic organizers are a low-tech tool that offers a simple, yet effective way for students to visually organize information for writing or reading assignments.
• Visual Timers: A visual timer can help students better understand and keep track of time by showing a clear visual representation of the time remaining and the time that has elapsed. This can be a physical timer or displayed on an interactive whiteboard. 

To ensure the successful adoption of AT among teachers and students, school systems can provide ongoing support, such as training sessions and access to assistive technologies. These solutions help educators customize strategies for individual student needs, recognizing that what works well for one student may not be as effective for another. 

Future Trends in Assistive Technology for the Classroom

The future of assistive technologies has the potential to revolutionize classroom dynamics, promising greater inclusivity, personalization, and enhanced learning experiences for students of all abilities. Teachers are also embracing the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in the implementation of educational technology. UDL is based on three main principles: Providing multiple means of engagement, representation, and action and expression.

By adopting a UDL approach, educators can create flexible learning environments that accommodate individual strengths, preferences, and learning styles. This means students have various ways to engage with content, multiple ways to represent information, and different ways to express what they have learned. When students are presented with information in differentiated ways, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and successful in their learning.

Final Thoughts

The presence of AT in the classroom is invaluable for students with disabilities. By integrating a range of both low-tech and high-tech AT tools, teachers can create an inclusive and engaging learning environment where every student can thrive. Voyager Sopris Learning^® offers transformative learning programs, such as LANGUAGE! Live^®, that is grounded in the science of reading and offers a blended approach to instruction. 

As technology continues to advance, it is important for teachers to be adaptable so their students always have the necessary support to succeed.