Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication, or AAC,
is a type of communication that utilizes assistive technology to help those
with disabilities and speech impairments use to communicate. AAC attends to
those who are in need of assistance with communication and truly strives to
present the best communication possibilities for these individuals. AAC
substitutes natural speech or communication by utilizing other communication
systems such as sign language or more importantly, technological tools.
High
Tech Tool for AAC: The technological tool that I researched for the high tech
tool was a product called DynaVox M3. This product provides recorded
speech that is created for communicators of all ages and physical abilities.
This tool allows for students to be an effective communicator within the
classroom, enabling them to communicate with their teachers and classmates at a
higher functioning level. It is especially designed for people with limited or
no literacy skills that need to practice successful communication in order to
build their literacy skills. This tool can be used for students to communicate
their sentences or thoughts to their classmates, allowing them to take part in
classroom activities. 
Low
Tech Tool for AAC: For the low tech tool, I decided to take a deeper look at the
“Easy Push Talking Pocket.” This tool is very easy and low on the technology
scale. It consists of two parts: the voice-over feature, which is a single
voice output with ten seconds of recording time and a pocket, which is designed
to hold the device. This device allows for students to share their messages by
recording them by the push of a single button. To use this device in the
classroom, students could attach it to receptive boards, books and even more to
actively participate in the class.
Accessibility
An input
device for people with special needs is any device that aids mentally or
physically handicapped people to input information into a technological device,
like a computer through the use of something like a keyboard.
Software Option: A great example of a software input
device in a keyboard that is on the screen of the computer. This is an
effective keyboard that aids students who have restricted mobility and a lack
of motor skills when attempting to use a regular keyboard. This virtual
keyboard may also be a great influence in increasing the rate at which a
student typically types, providing them with the ability to work on assignments
in a timely manner.
Hardware Option: An example of a hardware input
device is called the Alva Refreshable Braille display, which is a piece of
hardware that supplies Braille output from a computer for those who are
visually impaired. This hardware delivers the same amount of adequate
information as a normal keyboard, but it requires less reaching and hand
motions. This is a resource that would be useful in the classroom for students
who are visually impaired, allowing them to complete the same computer-based
assignments as their peers.
Follow my peers to learn more about other Adaptive Technology resources at the links provided below!
I was very intrigued with the push button! I think this invention being small and simple I feel would be a great asset to a special needs classroom.
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