Lolita S. Siguenza
Get your students talking and reading with Smart Talk! This device guides the student to SEE a picture, HEAR what the picture is, and REPEAT the word until they’ve added it to their spoken vocabulary. Students then hear the word IN CONTEXT and are asked QUESTIONS about the specific word. There are sets of 150 cards in each box (Home and Family, School & Community, and Animals and People). Within each set in a box are 5” x 5” laminated cards. The device uses 3 AA batteries which are not included and an optional AC adapter which is sold separately. Slide on a card. Press the WORD button to hear the picture identified. The student can press the button repeatedly to practice saying the word aloud. When the LEARN light blinks, press it to hear the word used in context. When the QUIZ light blinks, they press it for questions about the picture. They will see flashing lights then teacher will redirect the student to press LEARN again to hear the answer. Once done they simply turn the card over and follow along matching the printed words to the spoken words. Smart Talk is designed for students in PreK-3 and is perfect for ESL/LOTE, Special Education, and Early Intervention programs. Smart Talk is excellent for picture identification and language learning. Smart Talk can be used with children with Autism, Learning Disability, and Other Health Impairment. Listed below are the sites where you can purchase Smart Talk.
Classroom Direct
http://www.classroomdirect.com
Smart Talk Unit Only List Price $69.99 Direct Price $64.99
Educational Resources
http://www.edresources.com/ProductInfo.aspx?itemid=180496
Smart Talk Unit Only $69.99
Smart Talk Complete Program $259.99
Educational Insights / Image source
http://www.educationalinsights.com/
Smart Talk Station $89.99
Card Sets $42.99
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
ED443G Summary Research Articles
Assistive Technology Organization
ABLEDATA
http://www.abledata.com
ABLEDATA is a national database of information on assistive technology and rehabilitation equipment available from domestic and worldwide sources. The website has information on commercial products, non-commercial models and much more. They have products for people with visual disabilities, people with disabilities related to speech, writing and other methods of communication, products to support or supplement joints or limbs and much more. They also have featured issues on disabilities that are accessible once you click on it. The website is advertisement free from other vendors not affiliated with them. They have a complete alphabetical listing of links found in ABLEDATA. At the very bottom you would see American Sign Language ABLEDATA. I highly recommended this site for everyone looking for assistive technology.
Alliance for Technology Access
http://www.ataccess.org/
ATA is a national network of technology resource centers and technology vendors. Its Headquarters is in Petaluma, California. All members of the ATA provide help for people with disabilities and others explore computer software and adaptive devices. They provide information and referrals, present at conferences, train individuals and they network opportunities. They have mission, services, principles, contacts, and feedbacks listed on their websites. There are success stories filled with inspirations and ideas. The website has clear heading to each section, and the pictures are helpful and related to the subject. This site is excellent with valid source of information.
DO-IT Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology
http://www.washington.edu/doit
Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology (DO-IT) is an organization that increases the participation of individuals with disabilities in academic programs and careers. The organization conducts workshops on adaptive technology, college transition, access to employment, lends computers, modems, software, and adaptive technology for use by high school students with disabilities who have an interest in majoring in science, engineering, mathematics, or technology in college. This website has resources for students with disabilities, K-12 educators, parents and librarians. There are Hot Topics listed on the side for teachers and parents. Also there is an International Connection on different languages worldwide.
DREAMMS for Kids, Inc.
http://www.dreamms.org/
DREAMMS for Kids is a development research for the effective advancement of memory and motor skills. It’s organized by parents and it’s a nonprofit. DREAMMS is committed to making life easy with the use of computers and assistive technology for students and young people with special needs in schools, homes, and the community. You can view their newsletters which are awesome because teachers and parents and the community can read up on different technology issues. They have topics on adaptive keyboards, software, adapting toys for motor skills and much more. The background of the website has children’s handprints which attracts educators. The website offers links to other sites. I would recommend this site however the last update was in October of 2003.
Trace Research & Development Center
http://trace.wisc.edu/
This website was founded in the year 1971. In the homepage right below the title you’ll see high contrast, smaller font and larger font for people to customize their page. There are projects and programs, resources and tools, publications, site accessibility, and everything you need to know about Trace. Under resources and tools are list of links to other sites. Trace Center offers a variety of publications for users and developers of technology. The site was last updated on February 9, 2007. The site was not appealing to the eye although there are lots of useful information.
The Family Center of Technology and Disability
http://www.fctd.info/about/purpose.php
Here’s a website geared to parents and educators that offers services on various technology. There are lists of resources by categories such as assistive technology, disabilities, and material types. Newsletters that is easy to read in large print on HTML or PDF. Checkout the online discussions and family guide to assistive technology. Man this site is quite awesome. The website also has links to useful sites. The best part of this website is the power point presentation of assistive technology in the classroom. Interested in reading they have success stories. I would recommend this site for all educators.
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit / Hyperactive Disorder
http://www.chadd.org/Content/CHADD/AboutCHADD/Mission/default.htm
CHADD is a non-profit organization. This website is quite informative on ADHD. The site helps you understand the causes, symptoms, treatment and evaluation. They provide conferences and training upon request. Online store is available on posters, educational products and special sales. CHADD provides parent to parent education. The website presents itself to adults and children. They have a mission and objectives listed under the organization. CHAAD has at least 20,000 members in their organization. I recommend this site to all educators K-12 and universities.
National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities (NICHCY)
http://www.nichcy.org
NICHCY is a clearinghouse that provides information on disabilities and disability-related issues, with an emphasis on children and young people birth to age 22. The website offers technical assistance to parent and professional groups. There is information and referral for parents of children with special needs. There are referrals to other organizations and agencies as well. NICHCY also offers fact sheets on each disability listed which tells you more of the characteristics to look for, and provides tips for teachers and parents. This website is very informative and easy to read. Overall I recommend this website for parents and educators.
Rehabtool
http://www.rehabtool.com/
Now this site is quite appealing. The graphics are so related and enticing for customers to view. When you enter their assistive technology section you’ll see that they are color coded for customers to remember what category they are looking for. Very cute and nicely labeled! The website has links to products and vendors categorized in alphabetical order. They have assistive technology online community, free quarterly newsletter and an AT club. At the top of the site, you’ll see section headings such as finding a product, news, events, forum, and resources. Their mission is to help children and adults increase their independence in becoming a successful individual regardless of their disability. When you read the history behind Rehabtool you’ll feel so touched by Christopher’s successful results with the use of assistive technology.
American Foundation for the Blind
http://www.afb.org/
The website makes things possible for people who are blind or visually impaired to find ways to accomplish routine daily tasks in their lives. The site under assistive technology has sections video magnifiers, Braille Technology, speech systems, and AFB product evaluation. With AT devices children that are visually impaired can complete homework, read books, take exams and much more. What I like about this site is the Kids section because the graphics the theme that stands out “Welcome to the Braille Bug Site”. Information like what is Braille, who is Louise Braille and who is Helen Keller. They even have the opportunity to change the color of the site. Awesome! There are lots of interesting links. There is also a glossary of eye conditions and blindness statistics. I would recommend this site for all educators, and parents.
Assistive Technology Device
Assistive Technology Devices & Equipment
http://www.keysschools.com/ese/
The website focuses on the unique needs of students from gifted, mild, moderate and severe students. The site is clearly marked with buttons and links that take you to locations and back again. This site is geared to parents, speech therapist, physical therapist, psychologists, paraprofessionals, counselors, teachers, and administrators. I was quite disappointed when I wanted to check out Autism Associations and Organizations. For some reason I couldn’t open some of the web site (Autism Research Institute and National Alliance for Autism Research). I believe the URL’s were wrong.
LS & S (Learning, Sight and Sound Made Easier)
http://www.lssproducts.com/category/assistive_technology
If a student or an individual can’t see or have low vision, using LS & S products will give them the ability to communicate better. An Assistive Technology Software Zoomtext allows your computer screen to magnify with clear images so you can easily read and see what is on your monitor. This will assist adults who have poor eyesight due to cataract or glaucoma. Eventually I will need this product because I was already told that I have cataract. For students who have difficulties working on the computers due to poor eyesight this would be an excellent assistive technology teachers can use in the classroom. Talking software is also available that can read the text on the screen and for children definitely a plus to help them learn and have a fun experience of handling the computer with no problem. The information listed on the bottom indicates that it’s up to date. You can navigate into different sites such as alerting devices, listening devices, children’s products and much more.
Enable Mart
http://www.enablemart.com/
Each section of this website is labeled with a topic or section heading? The icons on this page are helpful and clearly related to the different areas of devices. There are various technologies for the vision, hearing, learning, keyboard and mice, mobility, communications, switches, ergonomics, environmental control, workstations, and more. They provide devices to make lives of all individual a lot easier. They are links that can take you to locations within the site and quickly return back to their site. The website is up to date from the information listed on the bottom. There is evidence of the author’s credentials, background when you click on “About us”. On the right side of the screen you will see a NEWS flash which takes you to read up on different articles based on assistive technology. There are also listings of manufactures with photos of their technology devices. This is an excellent site for educators, parents, community and consumers.
Abledata
http://www.abledata.com
Abledata provides information of various assistive technology products and services. Each product has a fact sheet which lays out a comprehensive outline of a specific type of assistive technology such as special dialing telephones, wheelchairs and scooter carriers, audible office equipment, computer accessories and more. Companies that sell the products, organizations and related readings are included in each fact sheet that may further assist you in selecting assistive products. The website has added 139 new products during the past three months. There are links listed in alphabetical order. Consumers can search the website free of charge from Abledata. They can also have an information specialist perform a search for a small fee. This site is a valid source of information.
Snappy-Dresser
http://www.snappy-dresser.com/about_us.shtml
This is a cool website. The devices are made for people with birth defects, arthritis, orthopedic, hip/knee replacements, stroke, and much more. The device can be used for people with disabilities which can assist them with other tasks that are impossible for them to succeed. There is a video that shows how the device can be used. People with disabilities and non disabilities can use this device when they need to go to the bathroom, kitchen and even when they need assistance to dress. For example they have a hard time pulling their zipper up when dressing, or when they need to reach for some items or bend to pick up objects. I think this is a wonderful device for everyone to use. The website shows you all the different interchangeable attachments.
ASSETS, INC. – Assistive Schools System Educational Technology Services
http://www.assets-inc.org/technology.htm
When you open up this website it explains first the definition of what AT terms and descriptions. Then it breaks it down by giving you examples and photos of the device. It even shows how the device can assist children’s education and even devices that help children with their homework. They have a mission which really stands out promoting their devices and how it can assist people with disabilities. The success stories are a must for you to read which will touch you bringing tears in your eyes of their accomplishment using their devices. Listings of links on online resources are available. Frequently Asked Questions and a Glossary are listed for your information. They provide a contact number if you have any questions, and newsletters for you to read. Read their newsletter they are quite interesting.
Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA)
http://www.caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/content_node.jsp?nodeid=141
This is a wonderful site for senior citizens. You know I’m nearing the age and I need to prepare myself on the entire technology device that I will need. If you look at the top there are listing of what this website has to offer. From newsletter, fact sheets, groups and more. They offer various technologies not only for senior citizens but also to individuals with disabilities. There are a lot of caregivers around the world who really need to look into this website. WOW! If you click under the press room section you will see news, workshops, conferences, personal stories and photos and many more provided. I thought the picture of the couple with the elderly woman was quite inviting to see how they care of their needs. I would recommend this website for people who are looking for caregivers and need more information on where to look.
Microsoft Accessibility
http://www.microsoft.com/enable/at/types.aspx
Here is another wonderful site that lists down descriptions of assistive technology products. The website recommends how to choose products that are compatible to your computer operating device. Take a look on the left side and click on AT products. It will take you to search for the AT, the type, and the information of the technology. There is a tutorial training on using the device and there is also an International site in different languages. The website appears to be up to date as you can see at the bottom 2008. If you need more information just click the right side under the heading. At the top of the homepage click downloads and you will see a list of fact sheets, tutorial, educators and more. I stayed on this site for awhile because it had some cool downloads especially if you want to learn about using Windows Vista.
Assistive Tech
http://www.assistivetech.net/
This website is a resource for assistive technology (AT) and a link to a wide variety of AT and disability-related information. It is designed to help you target solutions, determine costs and link to vendors that sell products. In their website they have a function plus activity products for people who can’t independently performed a specific activity. Each functional product to click onto will bring you to exactly what is listed under the specific area. Now if you are looking for a certain product just click on to their vendors and you will see who provides that certain equipment. I think it’s an awesome site for people with disabilities who needs help finding certain products that are available in their area.
Early Connections
http://www.netc.org/earlyconnections/
This website connects technology with the way young children learn. There are resources and information for educators and care to learn about each area. This site is organized according to where the children setting are being held such as Child Care, Pre-School, Kindergarten, Primary School or After School Programs. Under each section a description of soft wares, technology curriculum, learning technology, and much more are provided. This site is wonderful for educators on the above mentioned categories because it breaks it down on what each area contains. Weather it be Health and Safety, classroom arrangement and more. Resources are also listed.
Assistive Technology Research Articles
Assistive Technology Research Article
Assistive Technology to Meet K–12 Student Needs
http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/technlgy/te7assist.htm
This is a cool educational site for classroom teachers. They have a listing of Assistive Technology equipments available at their eyesight. There is assistive technology for vision, communication, hearing, learning and studying and more. Resources are listed on the bottom of the web. At first the website didn’t really impress me until I started reading on and then saw what teachers need when they request for assistance to children who need assistive technology. Awesome site!
Assistive Technology Research Article
NICHCY by Susan Stokes
http://old.nichcy.org/pubs/outprint/nd13txt.htm
This article provides guidelines on how to become a well-versed consumer of a technology. It also offers a parent’s outlook on assistive technology. It examines federal legislation, and discusses effective use of technology with young children. This article also tells how to integrate technology into a student’s IEP and suggests a process on how to get funding for the technology. At the bottom there are lists of readings and organizations that offer additional information on assistive technology. Skills can be developed all together with the computer and parent intervention. It breaks it down to all the different skills such as motor skills, visual perceptual skills, cognitive language skills, and social emotional skills. It also mentions how parents can select battery operated toys and switches.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Assistive Technology for Children with Autism by Susan Stokes
http://www.specialed.us/autism/assist/asst10.htm
Reading this article was quite interesting. The article discussed how various modes of technology can be used for children with autism in the following areas. The site talks about how children with autism can have an overall understanding of their environment; expressive communication skills; social interaction skills; attention skills; motivation skills; organization skills; academic skills; self help skills; and overall independent daily functioning skills. The article also describes what Assistive Technology is and she also explains the visual representation system with examples for clearer understanding. At the very bottom of the article she writes down low tech, mid tech and high tech devices that she recommends for autism student. Great article for educators who are familiar with autism students!
Assistive Technology Research Article
The Journal by Elizabeth A. White, Shelley B. Wepner and Donna C. Wetzel, Widener University
http://www.thejournal.com/articles/16270
The title of this article is Accessible Education through Assistive Technology. The article states that the implementation of technology in a classroom is dependent on the teacher’s knowledge, skills and application on how they can use the device. Because there are an increasing number of children with learning disability the use of technology will benefit the student in a classroom setting. However, there is an abundance of teachers who are not aware of available devices and services provided for these children, and when it’s stated on the child’s IEP the teacher is required to be knowledgeable to teach the components to the student with LD. Universities are realizing the critical aspects of technology being part of their curriculum. I’m glad I read this article because Learning Disability is increasing each year and majority of the students will be attending universities.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Assistive Technology Making Good Decisions by Dr. Sheldon H. Horowitz
http://www.ncld.org/content/view/589
Basically this article tells about how Dr. Sheldon recalls way back in the 1970’s the time he was teaching LD students in a resource room. He remembered asking his students to reflect on how their time at school and at home can be more productive in obtaining better grades. He recalls creating charts, modified their home works, giving them extra time to meet their needs. LD students wished that new technology devices can be created to assist their struggle in reading, writing, and spelling. Now technology is so sophisticated and more complicated for LD students to use. There are devices such as calculators that assist students to solve their math problems or they go on line and read aloud stories and surf the webs. Dr. Sheldon feels LD students have limitations of technology device and is asking whether consumers can create technology devices geared to students with learning disability. Give them the opportunity to ask for help and assist them when they are in doubt. He also understands that it would be a challenge to find out which technology will match up to LD students but in the long run LD students will feel successful to learn and become independent.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Disabled Bodies, Able Minds: Giving Voice, Movement and Independence to the physically challenged by Diane Curtis
http://www.edutopia.org/assistivetechnology
This is a wonderful article about an eleven year old boy who couldn’t speak or use his arms and legs. But with the use of his eyebrows it’s amazing that he can communicate with a technology device made for him. He is in a program called TACLE which is Technology and Augmentative Communication Learning Enhancement. He wears a headband on his head that senses the movements of his eyebrows. Evidently the computer picks up his eyebrow movement which programs what he wants to say. Another student with CP on a wheelchair is just like Adrian will communicate with Adrian using her cheeks. Amazing technology! Because our world is become assistive technology savvy, more of our disabled children will bring joy and maybe the world will have no disabilities that can’t succeed in life.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Assistive Technology for Kids with Learning Disabilities by Kristin Stanberry, Marshall Raskind, Ph.D.
http://www.greatschools.net/cgi-bin/showarticle/2286
This article mainly focuses on people with learning disabilities. Children with learning disabilities are motivated to learn when they are allowed to use their strengths to work around their disabilities. The article further explains what is assistive technology for LD, what types of learning problems does AT addresses, and what tools are available. As you stroll down each area and click on the category that interest you it will take you directly to their site quickly. The website is excellent for parents whose children are in preschool, elementary, middle and high school especially the back to school section. Great site for parents and teachers!
Assistive Technology Research Article
Why Does Your Child Need Computer? by Connections
http://www.linc.org/atwhypc.html
This article is quite interesting. As families start to prepare for a child they start talking about what to expect, when the baby is due, the future of the baby and so forth. However, once their child is born with a disability they need to be strong and prepare on how to bring handle their child that they’ve always dream of. Quote from the article parents with a child with a disability have to be the driving force behind their child’s growth and development. To accomplish their goals in life they need to start considering using assistive technology to assist their child and provide the best education they need. As you stroll down the article it mentions the following disabilities. Children who are blind need Braille; children who can speak need communication device, children with low tone and poor fine motor skills need special devices with switches. The use of a computer at an early age will prepare the child to communicate and learn the basic skills needed before beginning schools. I really like this article and I recommend this article for parents.
Assistive Technology Research Article
How Assistive Technology Helps Overcome Learning Disabilities by Linda Johnston
http://tiger.towson.edu/~ljohns15/research/paper.htm
Here is an article that addresses how assistive technology can help children with learning disabilities. Learning Disability is a challenge for most educators. With the use of assistive device these children can succeed in accomplishing what they couldn’t do. There are a lot of people today who for some reason overcome their LD obstacles and are successful in their lives. More children are completing high school because of educated professionals are preparing assistive technology devices to assist LD students. They start out in elementary school with problems in reading, writing and math and once again as they move on to higher grades assistive technology being implemented in high school has opened the doors for children with learning disabilities. I recommend all educators to read this article to let them see that these children can succeed with their help in providing assistive technology in their classrooms.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Speaking Up a Voice for Every Child by Kim Moccia
http://www.specialkidstoday.com/articles/assistive-technology/speaking-up-2898/
Here is a wonderful article about how assistive technology help children communicate to the world with a special device called Dynavox. They gave an example of a little boy who sang the National Anthem at the ballgame using Dynavox his tech device to sing. The article also list low-tech and high tech devices, and learning language with specialized software. The article has suggestions on how to select the right device and who are the team members needed to assist in determining which device would be appropriate for the child. I recommend this article to all educators and parents. The photos on the page are helpful and clearly related to the article.
ABLEDATA
http://www.abledata.com
ABLEDATA is a national database of information on assistive technology and rehabilitation equipment available from domestic and worldwide sources. The website has information on commercial products, non-commercial models and much more. They have products for people with visual disabilities, people with disabilities related to speech, writing and other methods of communication, products to support or supplement joints or limbs and much more. They also have featured issues on disabilities that are accessible once you click on it. The website is advertisement free from other vendors not affiliated with them. They have a complete alphabetical listing of links found in ABLEDATA. At the very bottom you would see American Sign Language ABLEDATA. I highly recommended this site for everyone looking for assistive technology.
Alliance for Technology Access
http://www.ataccess.org/
ATA is a national network of technology resource centers and technology vendors. Its Headquarters is in Petaluma, California. All members of the ATA provide help for people with disabilities and others explore computer software and adaptive devices. They provide information and referrals, present at conferences, train individuals and they network opportunities. They have mission, services, principles, contacts, and feedbacks listed on their websites. There are success stories filled with inspirations and ideas. The website has clear heading to each section, and the pictures are helpful and related to the subject. This site is excellent with valid source of information.
DO-IT Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology
http://www.washington.edu/doit
Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology (DO-IT) is an organization that increases the participation of individuals with disabilities in academic programs and careers. The organization conducts workshops on adaptive technology, college transition, access to employment, lends computers, modems, software, and adaptive technology for use by high school students with disabilities who have an interest in majoring in science, engineering, mathematics, or technology in college. This website has resources for students with disabilities, K-12 educators, parents and librarians. There are Hot Topics listed on the side for teachers and parents. Also there is an International Connection on different languages worldwide.
DREAMMS for Kids, Inc.
http://www.dreamms.org/
DREAMMS for Kids is a development research for the effective advancement of memory and motor skills. It’s organized by parents and it’s a nonprofit. DREAMMS is committed to making life easy with the use of computers and assistive technology for students and young people with special needs in schools, homes, and the community. You can view their newsletters which are awesome because teachers and parents and the community can read up on different technology issues. They have topics on adaptive keyboards, software, adapting toys for motor skills and much more. The background of the website has children’s handprints which attracts educators. The website offers links to other sites. I would recommend this site however the last update was in October of 2003.
Trace Research & Development Center
http://trace.wisc.edu/
This website was founded in the year 1971. In the homepage right below the title you’ll see high contrast, smaller font and larger font for people to customize their page. There are projects and programs, resources and tools, publications, site accessibility, and everything you need to know about Trace. Under resources and tools are list of links to other sites. Trace Center offers a variety of publications for users and developers of technology. The site was last updated on February 9, 2007. The site was not appealing to the eye although there are lots of useful information.
The Family Center of Technology and Disability
http://www.fctd.info/about/purpose.php
Here’s a website geared to parents and educators that offers services on various technology. There are lists of resources by categories such as assistive technology, disabilities, and material types. Newsletters that is easy to read in large print on HTML or PDF. Checkout the online discussions and family guide to assistive technology. Man this site is quite awesome. The website also has links to useful sites. The best part of this website is the power point presentation of assistive technology in the classroom. Interested in reading they have success stories. I would recommend this site for all educators.
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit / Hyperactive Disorder
http://www.chadd.org/Content/CHADD/AboutCHADD/Mission/default.htm
CHADD is a non-profit organization. This website is quite informative on ADHD. The site helps you understand the causes, symptoms, treatment and evaluation. They provide conferences and training upon request. Online store is available on posters, educational products and special sales. CHADD provides parent to parent education. The website presents itself to adults and children. They have a mission and objectives listed under the organization. CHAAD has at least 20,000 members in their organization. I recommend this site to all educators K-12 and universities.
National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities (NICHCY)
http://www.nichcy.org
NICHCY is a clearinghouse that provides information on disabilities and disability-related issues, with an emphasis on children and young people birth to age 22. The website offers technical assistance to parent and professional groups. There is information and referral for parents of children with special needs. There are referrals to other organizations and agencies as well. NICHCY also offers fact sheets on each disability listed which tells you more of the characteristics to look for, and provides tips for teachers and parents. This website is very informative and easy to read. Overall I recommend this website for parents and educators.
Rehabtool
http://www.rehabtool.com/
Now this site is quite appealing. The graphics are so related and enticing for customers to view. When you enter their assistive technology section you’ll see that they are color coded for customers to remember what category they are looking for. Very cute and nicely labeled! The website has links to products and vendors categorized in alphabetical order. They have assistive technology online community, free quarterly newsletter and an AT club. At the top of the site, you’ll see section headings such as finding a product, news, events, forum, and resources. Their mission is to help children and adults increase their independence in becoming a successful individual regardless of their disability. When you read the history behind Rehabtool you’ll feel so touched by Christopher’s successful results with the use of assistive technology.
American Foundation for the Blind
http://www.afb.org/
The website makes things possible for people who are blind or visually impaired to find ways to accomplish routine daily tasks in their lives. The site under assistive technology has sections video magnifiers, Braille Technology, speech systems, and AFB product evaluation. With AT devices children that are visually impaired can complete homework, read books, take exams and much more. What I like about this site is the Kids section because the graphics the theme that stands out “Welcome to the Braille Bug Site”. Information like what is Braille, who is Louise Braille and who is Helen Keller. They even have the opportunity to change the color of the site. Awesome! There are lots of interesting links. There is also a glossary of eye conditions and blindness statistics. I would recommend this site for all educators, and parents.
Assistive Technology Device
Assistive Technology Devices & Equipment
http://www.keysschools.com/ese/
The website focuses on the unique needs of students from gifted, mild, moderate and severe students. The site is clearly marked with buttons and links that take you to locations and back again. This site is geared to parents, speech therapist, physical therapist, psychologists, paraprofessionals, counselors, teachers, and administrators. I was quite disappointed when I wanted to check out Autism Associations and Organizations. For some reason I couldn’t open some of the web site (Autism Research Institute and National Alliance for Autism Research). I believe the URL’s were wrong.
LS & S (Learning, Sight and Sound Made Easier)
http://www.lssproducts.com/category/assistive_technology
If a student or an individual can’t see or have low vision, using LS & S products will give them the ability to communicate better. An Assistive Technology Software Zoomtext allows your computer screen to magnify with clear images so you can easily read and see what is on your monitor. This will assist adults who have poor eyesight due to cataract or glaucoma. Eventually I will need this product because I was already told that I have cataract. For students who have difficulties working on the computers due to poor eyesight this would be an excellent assistive technology teachers can use in the classroom. Talking software is also available that can read the text on the screen and for children definitely a plus to help them learn and have a fun experience of handling the computer with no problem. The information listed on the bottom indicates that it’s up to date. You can navigate into different sites such as alerting devices, listening devices, children’s products and much more.
Enable Mart
http://www.enablemart.com/
Each section of this website is labeled with a topic or section heading? The icons on this page are helpful and clearly related to the different areas of devices. There are various technologies for the vision, hearing, learning, keyboard and mice, mobility, communications, switches, ergonomics, environmental control, workstations, and more. They provide devices to make lives of all individual a lot easier. They are links that can take you to locations within the site and quickly return back to their site. The website is up to date from the information listed on the bottom. There is evidence of the author’s credentials, background when you click on “About us”. On the right side of the screen you will see a NEWS flash which takes you to read up on different articles based on assistive technology. There are also listings of manufactures with photos of their technology devices. This is an excellent site for educators, parents, community and consumers.
Abledata
http://www.abledata.com
Abledata provides information of various assistive technology products and services. Each product has a fact sheet which lays out a comprehensive outline of a specific type of assistive technology such as special dialing telephones, wheelchairs and scooter carriers, audible office equipment, computer accessories and more. Companies that sell the products, organizations and related readings are included in each fact sheet that may further assist you in selecting assistive products. The website has added 139 new products during the past three months. There are links listed in alphabetical order. Consumers can search the website free of charge from Abledata. They can also have an information specialist perform a search for a small fee. This site is a valid source of information.
Snappy-Dresser
http://www.snappy-dresser.com/about_us.shtml
This is a cool website. The devices are made for people with birth defects, arthritis, orthopedic, hip/knee replacements, stroke, and much more. The device can be used for people with disabilities which can assist them with other tasks that are impossible for them to succeed. There is a video that shows how the device can be used. People with disabilities and non disabilities can use this device when they need to go to the bathroom, kitchen and even when they need assistance to dress. For example they have a hard time pulling their zipper up when dressing, or when they need to reach for some items or bend to pick up objects. I think this is a wonderful device for everyone to use. The website shows you all the different interchangeable attachments.
ASSETS, INC. – Assistive Schools System Educational Technology Services
http://www.assets-inc.org/technology.htm
When you open up this website it explains first the definition of what AT terms and descriptions. Then it breaks it down by giving you examples and photos of the device. It even shows how the device can assist children’s education and even devices that help children with their homework. They have a mission which really stands out promoting their devices and how it can assist people with disabilities. The success stories are a must for you to read which will touch you bringing tears in your eyes of their accomplishment using their devices. Listings of links on online resources are available. Frequently Asked Questions and a Glossary are listed for your information. They provide a contact number if you have any questions, and newsletters for you to read. Read their newsletter they are quite interesting.
Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA)
http://www.caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/content_node.jsp?nodeid=141
This is a wonderful site for senior citizens. You know I’m nearing the age and I need to prepare myself on the entire technology device that I will need. If you look at the top there are listing of what this website has to offer. From newsletter, fact sheets, groups and more. They offer various technologies not only for senior citizens but also to individuals with disabilities. There are a lot of caregivers around the world who really need to look into this website. WOW! If you click under the press room section you will see news, workshops, conferences, personal stories and photos and many more provided. I thought the picture of the couple with the elderly woman was quite inviting to see how they care of their needs. I would recommend this website for people who are looking for caregivers and need more information on where to look.
Microsoft Accessibility
http://www.microsoft.com/enable/at/types.aspx
Here is another wonderful site that lists down descriptions of assistive technology products. The website recommends how to choose products that are compatible to your computer operating device. Take a look on the left side and click on AT products. It will take you to search for the AT, the type, and the information of the technology. There is a tutorial training on using the device and there is also an International site in different languages. The website appears to be up to date as you can see at the bottom 2008. If you need more information just click the right side under the heading. At the top of the homepage click downloads and you will see a list of fact sheets, tutorial, educators and more. I stayed on this site for awhile because it had some cool downloads especially if you want to learn about using Windows Vista.
Assistive Tech
http://www.assistivetech.net/
This website is a resource for assistive technology (AT) and a link to a wide variety of AT and disability-related information. It is designed to help you target solutions, determine costs and link to vendors that sell products. In their website they have a function plus activity products for people who can’t independently performed a specific activity. Each functional product to click onto will bring you to exactly what is listed under the specific area. Now if you are looking for a certain product just click on to their vendors and you will see who provides that certain equipment. I think it’s an awesome site for people with disabilities who needs help finding certain products that are available in their area.
Early Connections
http://www.netc.org/earlyconnections/
This website connects technology with the way young children learn. There are resources and information for educators and care to learn about each area. This site is organized according to where the children setting are being held such as Child Care, Pre-School, Kindergarten, Primary School or After School Programs. Under each section a description of soft wares, technology curriculum, learning technology, and much more are provided. This site is wonderful for educators on the above mentioned categories because it breaks it down on what each area contains. Weather it be Health and Safety, classroom arrangement and more. Resources are also listed.
Assistive Technology Research Articles
Assistive Technology Research Article
Assistive Technology to Meet K–12 Student Needs
http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/technlgy/te7assist.htm
This is a cool educational site for classroom teachers. They have a listing of Assistive Technology equipments available at their eyesight. There is assistive technology for vision, communication, hearing, learning and studying and more. Resources are listed on the bottom of the web. At first the website didn’t really impress me until I started reading on and then saw what teachers need when they request for assistance to children who need assistive technology. Awesome site!
Assistive Technology Research Article
NICHCY by Susan Stokes
http://old.nichcy.org/pubs/outprint/nd13txt.htm
This article provides guidelines on how to become a well-versed consumer of a technology. It also offers a parent’s outlook on assistive technology. It examines federal legislation, and discusses effective use of technology with young children. This article also tells how to integrate technology into a student’s IEP and suggests a process on how to get funding for the technology. At the bottom there are lists of readings and organizations that offer additional information on assistive technology. Skills can be developed all together with the computer and parent intervention. It breaks it down to all the different skills such as motor skills, visual perceptual skills, cognitive language skills, and social emotional skills. It also mentions how parents can select battery operated toys and switches.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Assistive Technology for Children with Autism by Susan Stokes
http://www.specialed.us/autism/assist/asst10.htm
Reading this article was quite interesting. The article discussed how various modes of technology can be used for children with autism in the following areas. The site talks about how children with autism can have an overall understanding of their environment; expressive communication skills; social interaction skills; attention skills; motivation skills; organization skills; academic skills; self help skills; and overall independent daily functioning skills. The article also describes what Assistive Technology is and she also explains the visual representation system with examples for clearer understanding. At the very bottom of the article she writes down low tech, mid tech and high tech devices that she recommends for autism student. Great article for educators who are familiar with autism students!
Assistive Technology Research Article
The Journal by Elizabeth A. White, Shelley B. Wepner and Donna C. Wetzel, Widener University
http://www.thejournal.com/articles/16270
The title of this article is Accessible Education through Assistive Technology. The article states that the implementation of technology in a classroom is dependent on the teacher’s knowledge, skills and application on how they can use the device. Because there are an increasing number of children with learning disability the use of technology will benefit the student in a classroom setting. However, there is an abundance of teachers who are not aware of available devices and services provided for these children, and when it’s stated on the child’s IEP the teacher is required to be knowledgeable to teach the components to the student with LD. Universities are realizing the critical aspects of technology being part of their curriculum. I’m glad I read this article because Learning Disability is increasing each year and majority of the students will be attending universities.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Assistive Technology Making Good Decisions by Dr. Sheldon H. Horowitz
http://www.ncld.org/content/view/589
Basically this article tells about how Dr. Sheldon recalls way back in the 1970’s the time he was teaching LD students in a resource room. He remembered asking his students to reflect on how their time at school and at home can be more productive in obtaining better grades. He recalls creating charts, modified their home works, giving them extra time to meet their needs. LD students wished that new technology devices can be created to assist their struggle in reading, writing, and spelling. Now technology is so sophisticated and more complicated for LD students to use. There are devices such as calculators that assist students to solve their math problems or they go on line and read aloud stories and surf the webs. Dr. Sheldon feels LD students have limitations of technology device and is asking whether consumers can create technology devices geared to students with learning disability. Give them the opportunity to ask for help and assist them when they are in doubt. He also understands that it would be a challenge to find out which technology will match up to LD students but in the long run LD students will feel successful to learn and become independent.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Disabled Bodies, Able Minds: Giving Voice, Movement and Independence to the physically challenged by Diane Curtis
http://www.edutopia.org/assistivetechnology
This is a wonderful article about an eleven year old boy who couldn’t speak or use his arms and legs. But with the use of his eyebrows it’s amazing that he can communicate with a technology device made for him. He is in a program called TACLE which is Technology and Augmentative Communication Learning Enhancement. He wears a headband on his head that senses the movements of his eyebrows. Evidently the computer picks up his eyebrow movement which programs what he wants to say. Another student with CP on a wheelchair is just like Adrian will communicate with Adrian using her cheeks. Amazing technology! Because our world is become assistive technology savvy, more of our disabled children will bring joy and maybe the world will have no disabilities that can’t succeed in life.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Assistive Technology for Kids with Learning Disabilities by Kristin Stanberry, Marshall Raskind, Ph.D.
http://www.greatschools.net/cgi-bin/showarticle/2286
This article mainly focuses on people with learning disabilities. Children with learning disabilities are motivated to learn when they are allowed to use their strengths to work around their disabilities. The article further explains what is assistive technology for LD, what types of learning problems does AT addresses, and what tools are available. As you stroll down each area and click on the category that interest you it will take you directly to their site quickly. The website is excellent for parents whose children are in preschool, elementary, middle and high school especially the back to school section. Great site for parents and teachers!
Assistive Technology Research Article
Why Does Your Child Need Computer? by Connections
http://www.linc.org/atwhypc.html
This article is quite interesting. As families start to prepare for a child they start talking about what to expect, when the baby is due, the future of the baby and so forth. However, once their child is born with a disability they need to be strong and prepare on how to bring handle their child that they’ve always dream of. Quote from the article parents with a child with a disability have to be the driving force behind their child’s growth and development. To accomplish their goals in life they need to start considering using assistive technology to assist their child and provide the best education they need. As you stroll down the article it mentions the following disabilities. Children who are blind need Braille; children who can speak need communication device, children with low tone and poor fine motor skills need special devices with switches. The use of a computer at an early age will prepare the child to communicate and learn the basic skills needed before beginning schools. I really like this article and I recommend this article for parents.
Assistive Technology Research Article
How Assistive Technology Helps Overcome Learning Disabilities by Linda Johnston
http://tiger.towson.edu/~ljohns15/research/paper.htm
Here is an article that addresses how assistive technology can help children with learning disabilities. Learning Disability is a challenge for most educators. With the use of assistive device these children can succeed in accomplishing what they couldn’t do. There are a lot of people today who for some reason overcome their LD obstacles and are successful in their lives. More children are completing high school because of educated professionals are preparing assistive technology devices to assist LD students. They start out in elementary school with problems in reading, writing and math and once again as they move on to higher grades assistive technology being implemented in high school has opened the doors for children with learning disabilities. I recommend all educators to read this article to let them see that these children can succeed with their help in providing assistive technology in their classrooms.
Assistive Technology Research Article
Speaking Up a Voice for Every Child by Kim Moccia
http://www.specialkidstoday.com/articles/assistive-technology/speaking-up-2898/
Here is a wonderful article about how assistive technology help children communicate to the world with a special device called Dynavox. They gave an example of a little boy who sang the National Anthem at the ballgame using Dynavox his tech device to sing. The article also list low-tech and high tech devices, and learning language with specialized software. The article has suggestions on how to select the right device and who are the team members needed to assist in determining which device would be appropriate for the child. I recommend this article to all educators and parents. The photos on the page are helpful and clearly related to the article.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
lollie_6858
Hi welcome to my blog. Would you believe that this is my first time to even hear the word BLOG. I am excited and looking forward to meeting new friends.
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