What options are there for a teenager who needs a communication device?

Bridget Brady

September 09, 2010 9:19:59 PM

I have a 15-year-old daughter that has multiple disabilities. She is nonverbal with some vocal sounds, is visually impaired, and has mental and physical deficits. She has full use of her right hand and a left side stroke. I'm wondering … is there any technology that she can possibly use for communication other than Cheap Talk 8? This is heavy and bulky for a child with limited hand-use, and it is too large for her desk at school. In addition, I am trying to compile a communication book, similar to PECS (picture exchange communication system), but am hoping there is some kind of technology that is available and easier to access for her. Are there additional communication devices that you would recommend?

What speech recognition programs work when the user's speech is inconsistent?

Administrator

June 01, 2008 9:59:28 AM

I am severely dyslexic. Have several versions of Dragon Naturally Speaking speech recognition programs. None work for me. I cannot read precisely enough for the program to recognize my voice. Do you know of any other programs out there that do not require this type of reading to train the program?

What technology resources can be used for students with motor and speech limitations?

Administrator

March 01, 2008 10:36:11 AM

I am an OT and could use some help with technology resources and implementing them in the classroom with students with special needs. I would really like to know about any tools that could be helpful for students with motor and speech limitations in the general education classroom. The tools we are currently using don't integrate well into that setting. Where can I find tools that my students could use in the general education classroom?

What technology helps math, handwriting, and spelling?

Administrator

January 31, 2008 5:59:34 PM

I have been trying to find a list of assistive technology for my son who doesn't know his sounds, his handwriting is labored, and he doesn't know his multiplication facts. He has his math reading problems read to him, thank goodness. He remembers his spelling words long enough for the test, but come Monday, he can only remember a couple of them.

My son has had perfect conduct and perfect attendance. He's teachable, just not being taught. My main question is what should he be getting as to assistive technology? Thanks for your time and allowing me to ask you questions.