Assistive Technology:
Screen Readers and Magnifiers
Kelsey Pratt
Experience with Assistive Technology
I have had some experience with TTY machines. My uncle is deaf and I have seen him communicate with the machine and I have spoke to the answering service operator in order to communicate with him. In the school setting and with students, I have had no other experiences with Assistive Technology.
Type of Assistive Technology: Communication Device
The Screen Magnifier and Reader are considered communication devices. They give people with visual impairments the ability to communicate effectively with others.
Screen Magnifier
- A screen magnifier makes everything that is on the screen appear larger. The user is then required to navigate across the screen because it won't all appear at one time.
- A visually impaired individual would benefit from this technology.
- In the classroom a student with a VI would be able to participate in computer activities and online projects.
Screen Reader
- A screen reader sends the computer information to a speech synthesizer or a braille display. The user will then either hear the information or be able to read what is on the computer using braille.
- A person that is legally blind would benefit from this technology.
- In the classroom, a student would have access to the computer, be able to type papers, be able to research for projects, and to participate along with their peers.