Assistive Technology & Universal Design for Learning

Research shows that assistive technology (AT) motivates students with learning disabilities and leads to more persistence in their learning. Aside from the motivational benefits, assistive technology tools make it easier for students with learning exceptionalities to do their best because AT can remove some of the barriers to acquiring and expressing their knowledge.

However, AT can be a powerful learning tool for students without identified learning exceptionalities too. And when AT is offered more broadly in the classroom and school, it has the potential to promote inclusivity and reduce the stigma that some students experience when accessing supports and accommodations. This is where Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can play a role. Research on UDL strategies shows that it motivates students of all ability and achievement levels, it gives all students an opportunity to succeed and grow, and provides flexibility in the ways students access material and show what they know.

MindWell Psychology supports students and classrooms with the following assistive technologies and UDL strategies:

• promoting time-management and organization skills using devices (e.g., laptops, tablets)

• planning and organizing their writing using templates and concept-mapping software

• screen reader technology (text-to-speech) to support comprehension and reading development

• dictation tools and training (speech-to-text) for students who struggle with the writing process

• note-taking tools, software, and strategies to support learners who struggle to follow lessons

• supporting parents, teachers, and other educators to bridge materials from paper to digital making them ready for AT  use

• math tools to target areas of need more specifically

• intervention apps to target specific areas of learning

• curriculum design support to integrate UDL strategies

Contact us to discuss how Assistive Technology and Universal Design for Learning strategies can support your learners and enhance your practice.