Technology Resources for the Universally Designed Classroom

By Betsy Enright

With increased access to computer technology, improvements in software and availability of digitized text, classroom environments are reflecting this evolution. Using the philosophy of Universal Design many educators are embedding the use high and low-tech technology into the lesson planning process to help meet the needs of diverse students. To engage all types of learners, to provide multiple methods for students to access information and to provide students with multiple ways to demonstrate what they can do, along with traditional methods, educators are using technology to improve access to the general curriculum.

MECATS, Maine’s Center for Assistive Technology and Software, is a wonderful resource for the latest information on assistive technology, specialized and educational software, web accessibility and universal design. They provide in depth individual assistive technology assessments, consultation and professional development for agencies and organizations.

MECATS has been funded by DOE for over 12 years and housed at the University of Southern Maine. Historically they have serviced the PK12 age group, but have recently expanded to include all ages. With the realization that adults with an onset of disabilities, as well as children with disabilities, need ways of communicating access to computer technology is rapidly making a difference for many in our communities and our schools.

Choosing software for the Universally Designed classroom can seem like a daunting task. However, MECATS also has a computer lab with samples of specialized educational software and technology that you can try! Give them a call and spend a day learning about the exciting technologies and programs that are available.

The programs listed below are a place to begin to explore the options and availability of software for the classroom.

Inspiration and Kidspiration, support improved achievement for all students with the use of graphic organizers for brainstorming, diagramming, mapping and outlining. These are incredible tools for visual learners; students who need scaffolding for organization, expansion of topics, pre teaching, review or help with retention of information. You can try a free 30 day down load at:

www.inspiration.com

Text -to -speech software converts digital text from a word processor, web page, e-mail into synthesized speech. Several versions are available and vary in price. Here are a couple to check out:

Write Out Loud
www.donjohnston.com

HearIt is free text to speech software that can be downloaded for the Mac http://allmacintosh.xs4all.nl/files/hearit1.sit

Help Read
www.helpread.net

Kurzwiel 3000 is a premier reading, writing and learning software program. It can scan and read many languages, has excellent optical character recognition capabilities, dual highlighting and as it reads each word aloud it highlights in another color, it has word prediction, and it can read the web and follow links to name a few functions.

http://www.kurzweiledu.com/

Alpha Smart is a portable word processor. It is very durable, lightweight and low cost. It has word processing capabilities and can send to a word processor. It is also an adapted keyboard for those who can only use one hand it can become a right handed or left handed keyboard.

http://www.alphasmart.com/

Voice recognition is technology that is a rapidly improving. It also the uses to control the computer by speaking. The latest versions require only a 5-10 minute training period, and use natural commands. This technology can be useful for students who need support in writing, to have more output, need to dictate, or have physical issues that impact computer use.

Dragon Naturally Speaking
www.scansoft.com/naturallyspeaking

Via Voice
http://www-306.ibm.com/software/voice/viavoice/

Co Writer is word prediction software for writing that reduces the amount of keystrokes needed. It is helpful for students with issues of limited written output, spelling, grammar, and word retrieval.

http://www.donjohnston.com/products/cowriter/index.html

For more information about ALLTECH/MECATS contact: www.mecats.org

Would you like to attend a workshop and learn more about Universal Design and Technology?
The staff from LEARNS and MECATS will be co-presenting a session at the Maine Support Network, 2003 Winter Retreat, February 1-3 at the Samoset Resort in Rockport, Maine.

Click Here for More information: http://www.mainesupportnetwork.org/learn/index.htm

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A member of the University of Maine System

Updated: 01/11/2007