Assistive Technology
Screen readers and screen magnifiers
My experience with assistive technology
Unfortunately my experience with assistive technology is very limited. I have not used it in any of my practicum experiences. I have however heard of many of them: speech recognition software, TTY/TTD conversions, Braille tools, and speech recognition software. I chose to research screen magnifiers, and screen readers. Both are used for those with visual impairments. Screen readers and screen magnifiers could be discribed as tools to enhance environmental interactions, and communication for those with those that are blind, visually impaired, illiterate, or learning disabled,
Screen reader
This is software that attempts to identify and interpret what is being displayed one the screen then is represented with TTS, sound icons or Braille.
Screen magnifiers
This is software that interfaces with computer graphical output to present enlarged images. This is used with individuals with visual impairments.
Where did I get this information?
Screen readers-
nomensa.com/blog/2005/what-is-a-screen-reader
Screen magnifier-
webaim.org/article/visual/lowvision
Benefits of screen readers and screen magnifiers
benefits for students
Screen readers allows students access to communication, the use of technology implementation, the ability to search the web, create documents, and increase social interactions with their peers. Screen magnifiers allow students to see the computer screen and access information provided on it. It allows them to be included in the general education classroom and gives them the freedom to feel like part of the group, and they don't have to view their disabilities as differences that keep them isolated. Both are great tools for any school to have. The benefits far out weight the cost.
contact information
Email: natalie.ulm@Doane.edu
Twitter: @NatalieUlm