Assistive Technology 

This page contains software descriptions of some assistive technology software that special education teachers utilize.

Write Outloud  by Don Johnston, Inc

 This speech output word processing software allows you to set the frequency for speech feedback-letter-by-letter, word-by-word or sentence-by-sentence. Select the voice and rate of feedback to promote better listening. Adjust how the screen looks visually because fewer distracting elements can help students focus on their task. Select the font size, color and contrasting background color for best readability. This Word Processing software that speaks as you type as well as cues misspellings with sounds (Beeping or dog barking).  Also allows misspellings to be cued visually with a flashing screen.

 

CoWriter  by Don Johnston, Inc

Co Writer is a word prediction program.  This program not only guesses what your next word will be, but also speaks the guesses.  Therefore, your non reader won't have to guess at the words.  You are able to change the number of guesses, the quantity of guesses and the voice output option.  Cowriter learns your writing style and remembers your most frequently used words.  This program allows for more creative writing and keeps user on task.

 

   Kurzwiel 3000 by Kurzweil Educational Systems, Inc

            Kurzweil 3000 is a scan and read program.  You can scan worksheets, or books into Kurzweil and with some editing you can have your work display on the computer screen.  For your non readers, Kurzweil's speech output will read what is on the screen right in front of you.  For those who need to increase their reading speed, Kurzweil can highlight words that are being read.  You are able to increase or decrease the speed of the highlights.  Once worksheets are ready to go students can type their answers in to fields, leave a voice note instead of typing.  Students who keyboard their answers can print out their work and turn it in.  Teachers can listen to voice note answers,  Great for those teachers that use short answer tests, but don't get the informative written answers.

    Magellan by Valpar

        Computerized assessment tool allows students to takes several tests based on their interest and ability.  The tests range from physical skill factors, temperaments, interaction with people and data, and time commitment.  Not all tests need to be completed at one time.  Tests range from 10 minutes to 50 minutes.  Students receive results immediately after completing test.  They can then begin to determine if their future plans are their reality.  They find out how much school or training is need for a variety of jobs. They can view videos to see a worker perform a job.  They can investigate projected growth for the occupation and see average salaries for occupation based on where they would like to live.  This assessment does not tell them what job they should pursue, but gives them a better understanding of their interest and ability level.