Technology
Come and Play with our exciting Technology!
Over 40 assistive technology devices and 100 software titles are available for the use in the CompuWrite lab. Students have the opportunity to use scanners, quick cams, digital cameras, video cameras, LCD projectors and the Internet in their learning activities. Windows platforms are used in the camp, but accommodations can be made for those using a Mac. Listed below are some examples of our technology categories:
Word prediction software - Word prediction software can help a user during word processing by "predicting" a word the user intends to type. Predictions are based on spelling, syntax, and frequent/recent use. This prompts kids who struggle with writing to use proper spelling, grammar, and word choices, with fewer keystrokes.
Graphic Organizers and Outlining - Graphic organizers and outlining programs help users who have trouble organizing and outlining information as they begin a writing project. This type of program lets a user "dump" information in an unstructured manner and later helps him organize the information into appropriate categories and order.
Paper-based computer pen - This technology records and links audio to what a person writes using the pen and special paper. It enables the user to take notes while simultaneously recording someone( e.g., a teacher) speaking. The user can later listen to any section of his notes by touching the pen to his corresponding handwriting or diagrams.
Proofreading software - Students who struggle with writing (e.g., spelling, grammar, punctuation, word usage, and sentence structure) may benefit from software programs (included in many word processing systems) that scan word processing documents and alert the user to possible errors.
Speech recognition software - A speech recognition program works in conjunction with a word processor. The user dictates into a microphone, and his spoken words appear on the computer screen as text. This can help a user whose oral language ability is better than his writing skills.
Speech synthesizers/screen readers - These systems can display and read aloud text on a computer screen, including text that has been typed by the user, scanned in from printed pages (e.g., books, letters), or text appearing on the Internet.
Alternative input devices –These devices allow individuals to control their computers through means other than a standard keyboard or pointing device.
Information gathered from “http://www.greatschools.org/special-education/assistive-technology/960-writing-tools.gs”