Journal 8: Adaptive Technology

Tools for Communication & Tools for Accessibility

Augmentative and Alternative Communication(AAC) is any method of communicating that supplements the ordinary methods of speech and handwriting, where these are impaired.(Miller & Scott, 1998)

Communication



What is AAC?
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. We all use AAC when we make facial expressions or gestures use symbols or pictures, or write.
 http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/AAC/

A no tech/free way of communicating that is commonly used is sign language. Sign language is a way to communicate just by hand gestures. It is a language that helps the deaf community or speech inpediment community thrive. If you have ever seen a translator or people communicating by hand it is remarkable. Not only is it hand gestures, but it body language and facial expressions. It can be used in the classroom for all students to learn and be inspired. By teaching your students, they will relate more and be more educated on the subject of the deaf community. Sign language will enhance children's communication skills. For a deaf student you will often see an interpreter that the other students are used to.  I find sign language so amazing and I would love to learn myself.


High Tech
A communication tool for AAC that it high tech and extremely helpful is DynaVox. A diagonal color display screen, which allows for more vocabulary to be displayed on a single page. This also benefits communicators with visual and fine motor impairments. There is a 7 lb, and also a smaller 3lb version to carry around. This device has made a huge difference in many lives. It gives people a voice and allows them to be heard and understood.

Today, DynaVox is the world’s leading provider of communication and education solutions designed to help individuals living with speech, language and learning disabilities communicate and reach their potential.

 Accessibility

What is an input device?
An input device is any device where someone can input information into a computer. Some often seen examples are a mouse and keyboard.
People with extreme disabilities can use these devices in their own way. There are many modified input devices for special needs.

A hardware example that has been modified for special needs is the The Little Fingers keyboard. As it sounds, provides smaller keys for smaller hands, along with the BAT One-Handed keyboard which provides full keyboard access for students with the use of only one hand! Technology is such a helpful tool that can be used in the classroom to keep everyone on the same page even if they have a special quality, no problem.


Left handed key board! ^


There are also softwares out there to assist. There is a popular software, Blooming Kids Software. Their software assist children who have learning disabilities such as autism, PDD and ADD. The programs and teaching technique come directly from proven teaching methods in the field. There are about 40 different programs provided that help anywhere from memory, colors, vocabulary, telling time, reading and much more. There website has so much to offer and helpful information to help anyone in need: http://www.bloomingkids.com/




Classmates Blogs with great ideas:
Shelby
Kristin