When searching for assistive technology for reading disability issues, it's important to find technology that is easy to use so that it can be used by any grade level and also important to make sure the technology is comfortable and working well for the student. With that being said, know that there are several types of technology available. Quite a bit of it has to do with using voice technology along with written words in order to assist the student. There is also research to indicate that changing the color of the written words, using colored lenses or colored paper is also an effective approach. review some of the options below to determine what may best assist your student.
Optical Character Recognition
This type of technology comes in many forms, from hand held devices to software that is used with a traditional computer. Written words are scanned and processed by the computer. The software recognizes the characters, processes the words and reads them aloud to the student. Having a student read along using the written words is a positive approach to letter recognition and developing reading skills.
Audio Books
Audio books are not just for those who enjoy listening more than they do reading. These books can be used to assist students in developing their reading skills by reading the written words as the text is played along with them. Though most audio books consist of the written word along with a compact disc or cassette tape, they can also be downloaded onto a computer or an MP3 device.
Screen Readers
Screen readers are a type of technology used to assist in those with reading and writing difficulties as they work with written words in the computer. This program reads information that is on the screen. Students are able to type in words, use scanned words or words that are pulled up on the computer screen. The screen reader will read each of these formats. This can be beneficial to those who have difficulties reading and writing.
Keep in mind that assistive technology for reading disability issues needs to be tailored to the person with the disability. What works for one student may not work for the other, especially if there are other disorders presents such as ADHD. Sometimes it is a combination of these and other types of technology that work best for the student.