Product Information
There is a huge range of software and hardware available to support anybody
with special needs. We have listed some of the most popular product groups
on this page, there are far too many for us to provide a comprehensive list
so do contact us for information on any products not listed. Unfortunately
with such a choice it can be difficult to get the exact combination of
products to suit your particular needs. Therefore we would always recommend
that you get assessed by a qualified assessor who can explain the products,
interpret your needs, and most importantly will allow you to test the
products before purchase. We can provide details of approved assessors in
your area on request. There are many forms of Assistive and Adaptive
Technology to assist those with disabilities, a summary is listed but for
full product information please contact us.
Text-to-Speech
These products read information from a computer back to the user so that they
can proof work / hear any errors. Texthelp’s Read & Write Standard includes
phonetic spelling, word prediction, homophone support a variety of speech
options and a comprehensive dictionary. ClaroRead Plus and Read & Write Gold includes all of
these items with integrated Optical Character Recognition which allows users
to scan and read textbooks etc. It also includes a fact folder, speech maker
and PDF aloud, which reads PDF files. Portable Reading Pens such as the Oxford Reading Pen allow users to scan small sections of text (for example
in a reference book in the library) and hear the words back, they also have a
small screen and can connect to your PC making them ideal for collecting data.
Speech-to-Text
Otherwise known as Dictation or Speech Recognition software these products allow
the student to rapidly produce written work on their PC without learning to
type or worrying about their spelling. Dragon NaturallySpeaking allows
dictation directly into all office products with only a minimum of training.
Automatic punctuation and easy editing along with a 150,000 word vocabulary
make this the most popular option. You can also combine this product with a
digital recorder to make notes on-the-move and download them later – a very good
timesaver!
Mind Mapping
Also known as Concept Mapping these types of software allow students to brainstorm,
organise and outline essays, note take and plan presentations. Using prompts and
not needing to write full sentences, just keywords, assists those whose learning
style is Visual. Product such as Inspiration, Mind Manager and Mind Genius produce
workflow diagrams, tree charts etc. Inspiration also includes a basic text-to-speech
function.
Typing Tutors
Teaching students to touch-type can result in a saving of many hours when essay
writing. The most popular products, such as Kaz are user friendly and quick to learn from; vital to maintain attention.
Spell Checkers
Handheld spell checkers with integrated dictionaries are a convenient device for
students to use on the move. Products such as some of the Franklin range will also
speak the word and definition, assisting dyslexic student with their work.
Recording Devices
Recording lectures can be very useful for students and a variety of options are
available. It is important to use the correct type of microphone with each device.
Digital recorders such as the Olympus
DS range are now more common as speech can be downloaded directly onto a computer; if
using a speech-to-text product with a digital recorder it is possible for notes
to be transcribed directly into Word.
Portable Keyboards
Items such as the AlphaSmart range are rugged keyboards with an integrated
screen which allow students to note-take. A printer can be plugged into the unit
directly, or connection to a PC is available via a USB connection. These units can also be supplied with standard Palm software and can also function as a PDA (see below).
Also availiable are items such as the Asus EEE PC.
Portable Digital Assistants (PDA's)
These are used to assist with note-taking and editing, appointment organising and
time-management. Work can be downloaded onto a computer and appointments
synchronised with Outlook. Products such as the HP Ipaq and Palm range have
proved very popular and the latter can also run a shortened version of Inspiration.
