Assistive technologies

Students with physical or sensory impairments may benefit from further investigation into assistive technologies. Information from outside professionals, parents and the Learning Support Team may provide specific technical information about available options and their use.

The equipment and strategies available as support is constantly evolving. The suggestions below are by no means exhaustive.

• VISION: The characteristics, causes and extent of vision impairment will suggest the most suitable support. Some text-to-speech software may be useful, as are adaptions to the presentation of information on screen eg magnification devices. In some cases, students may require Braille devices. Itinerant Support Teachers Vision (ISTVs) may be accessed for specifics regarding individual student needs.
• HEARING: Accommodations may include one or more of the following:
  • Interpreters
  • Preferential seating in the classroom
  • Visual cues from staff and peers
  • Hearing aids
  • FM systems
  • Speech recognition technologies
• PHYSICAL: scanning software, touch screens, and foot mouse technologies may be worth investigating
• COMMUNICATION: augmentative and alternative communication technologies are a specialised area. Rely on advice as to what the student requires and what has been tried successfully in the past.
• LEARNING: A great deal of computer software has become available. This is a vast area with a variety of manifestations and requirements. Outside professionals may assist in selecting appropriate tools and levels of operation.
• AUTISM: Some students may benefit from weighted blankets or technology which increases focus. The use of squeeze balls etc is a low-tech but very effective option in preventing escalating behaviour and providing comfort and focus.