Writing

media type="custom" key="4737321" This video is on assistive writing technology. The technology options mentioned in this video are considered low technology options. In the movie the lady goes over many different assistive writing instruments. These instruments are helpful for students who are struggling with fine motor skills. Adaptive tools for writing include special pens/pencils, pencil/pen grips, and custom made writing tools. There are also adaptive paper that students can utilize. The adaptive papers range from colored paper to paper with larger spaces between the lines.
 * This is very low-tech compared with Ghotit program but addresses more the mechanics of writing, not the composition itself. I love these low-tech options because they would be readily accessible to teachers and families. Many occupational therapists who work with children in schools have supplies of these kinds of things on hand. Some of them are so fun and kid-friendly that they could be used as "prizes" for completion of other tasks. It also would not attract too much attention from other students if a child were using some of these items.

media type="youtube" key="aypu_zNdIZ8" height="360" width="580" Ghotit is a program for people with dyslexia. It has all kinds of features similar to the grammar/spellcheck that we use in Word or similar programs but is geared for the specific difficulties faced by those with dyslexia. It also had a feature that reads the typed text aloud so that the writer can be sure that the words say what they intended to say. This video is short, sweet and very cool. It explains the program very well. Take a look!
 * This is a very practical and easy-to-use form of assistive technology. I am very impressed by how simple it seems, and the program seems easy to understand and maneuver. Many of the technologies I've been introduced to via this wiki are geared towards people who have severe physical conditions. Ghotit targets dyslexia, which is a condition we will all encounter at some point in our lives as teachers. I will definitely remember this program and can hopefully see it in action throughout my teaching career.

media type="custom" key="4756437" This video is about a simple form of assistive technology, a talking spell check. Just like Ghotit, it is also very similar to the spell check in Word; however, it is more for people who either have difficulties spelling or difficulties reading/seeing words. You simply type in text, and the computer will read it out loud. If something is spelled wrong, it provides suggestions, which are read aloud so that the person typing can hear the words and pick which one should be used.
 * This assistive technology seems really helpful with students and in the classroom. This is also really good for just everyday speaking becuase it can help them use different words and help them spell.

media type="youtube" key="NBICsbxypYc" height="344" width="425" This video gives a great description of the Alphsmart NEO. This piece of technology is a portable word processor that can store up to 8 separate files onto it. The NEO allows teachers to send information to students through the processors, and also allows students to print their documents by lining up the laser that is on the NEO to a printer. This device can be used for story writing and journal entries. It is also a great tool because students don't need to use a big, bulky computer, but can type at the convenience of their own desks. (TJD)
 * I found this form of assistive technology to be very interesting, as students do not have to leave their desk to type a document or assignment, and they do not even have to leave their desk to print. This can be helpful for students who are distracted by other students easily as they walk around or work at computer stations, and those students who prefer working by themselves.