Low Tech Assistive Technology: Easy Solutions for Classrooms
Easy, low-cost assistive technology solutions can enhance accessibility and support diverse learners in the classroom
When we hear the term Assistive Technology (AT), we often imagine kids with disabilities mastering previously challenging assignments with the help of the latest and greatest high-tech gadgetry.
And with that high tech often comes a high price tag, which can be why schools are reluctant to implement AT. But there are plenty of low-tech assistive technology options that can help your child achieve their goals.
History of Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology is “any item, piece of equipment, or product that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.”
The 21st century has witnessed numerous technological progress in a variety of fields, including improvements to help people work with their disabilities. Assistive technology is one of those advancements for people with disabilities and has positively impacted thousands of lives.
The origins of assistive devices can perhaps be traced to the first wheelchair hundreds of years ago, though the creation of Braille in the 19th century is commonly referred to as the root of modern assistive technology devices.
Low Tech Assistive Technology Examples
Low-tech devices for students with disabilities “are devices or equipment that don’t require much training, may be less expensive, and do not have complex or mechanical features.”
Low tech does not require a power source – which is the main difference from high-tech. Sometimes this can be the easiest and most practical of solutions in assistive technology. Examples of low tech are a pencil grip for children with grasp issues, a cane to assist with walking, or a reacher to assist an individual with picking up items off the floors.
Surprisingly, low-tech devices can often make the biggest difference for a student. Examples include:
- walking canes
- binder clips that make it easier to turn pages
- sensory input items such as fidgets and squishy balls
- writing things down instead of speaking
- Low-tech assistive technology in the classroom includes printing assignments in larger fonts, pencil grips, adapted pencils, and using colored highlighters to better organize information.
Low Tech Assistive Technology in the Classroom
AT is any device, software, or equipment that helps people work around challenges so they can learn, communicate, and function better. A wheelchair is an example of AT. So is software that reads aloud text from a computer. Or a keyboard for someone struggling with handwriting.
These tools can help people work around their challenges, while also playing to their strengths. This is especially important for kids who struggle with learning—whether in reading, writing, math, or another subject. AT can help these kids thrive in school and in life. And that can help grow their confidence and independence.
Yes, that means a highlighter is considered AT. And it might be just what your student needs to help visually organize information.
Choosing appropriate AT solutions—whether high tech or low tech—depends on a number of factors: What is impeding success; how is it getting in the way; and how can a student best compensate are the first questions to consider. Other factors might include the level of fatigue, strain, physical limitations, and how long it would take to complete work (e.g., to write a paper) without the use of technology.
Who uses Assistive Technology
A typical assistive technology user has a disability that requires a compensatory tool for increased independence. The level of the ability or disability of the user can vary. It can range from someone who had a spinal cord injury and can only move their head to a person who has pain when using their mouse due to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Both adults and children can benefit from technology use.
Low-Tech AT Options
Examples of low-tech for learning disabled students
- Alternative keyboards
- Digital recorders
- Spelling devices, and even computers with word-processing software
- Graphic Organizer
- Visual Schedules
- Adapted Pencil (weighted, fat, skinny, triangular, golf etc.)
- Adaptive Paper (graph, special spacing or texture, HWT etc.)
- Pencil Grip
- Adapted eraser
- Slant board
- Post-it’s (yes, those post-its)
- Highlighter
- Tactile ruler
- Velcro
- Adapted keyboard
- Word prediction softwarw
- Binder clip (for grip for turning pages
Examples of low-tech AT for Reading
Here are 15 ways you can use low-tech assistive technology for reading skills.
- Large-print books: Books with larger font sizes can help individuals with visual impairments.
- Magnifying glasses: These can be used to magnify text in books, newspapers, and other printed materials.
- Colored overlays: Placing colored overlays over text can help reduce visual stress and improve reading speed and accuracy.
- Book stands: Book stands can help hold books upright and make them easier to read.
- Reading guides: These are plastic strips that can be placed over text to help readers focus on one line at a time.
- Highlighters: Highlighting important information can help readers retain information and better understand the text.
- Page turners: Individuals with mobility impairments may benefit from a page turner, which can help them turn pages in a book.
- Braille books: Braille books are written in braille, a tactile writing system, and can be read by individuals with visual impairments.
- Audiobooks: Audiobooks can be helpful for individuals with visual impairments or reading difficulties.
- Talking calculators: Talking calculators can read out calculations aloud, making them more accessible for individuals with visual impairments or learning difficulties.
- Talking clocks: Similar to talking calculators, talking clocks can read out the time aloud for individuals with visual impairments.
- Reading rulers: Reading rulers are transparent rulers that can be used to isolate and magnify text.
- Finger trackers: Finger trackers can be placed on a page to help readers keep their place and prevent losing their place while reading.
- Reading lamps: Adequate lighting can help improve reading conditions for individuals with visual impairments.
- Book holders: Book holders can be used to prop up books at an angle, making them easier to read.
Examples of low-tech AT for Dyslexia
Many of these low tech assistive technology examples for dyslexia will overlap with those used for reading, there are a few different ideas.
- Text-to-speech software: Text-to-speech software can read text aloud, making it easier for individuals with dyslexia to comprehend written material.
- Dyslexia-friendly fonts: Certain fonts, such as Dyslexie or OpenDyslexic, are designed to be more readable for individuals with dyslexia.
- Colored overlays: Colored overlays can reduce visual stress and make it easier for individuals with dyslexia to read.
- Reading rulers: Reading rulers can be used to isolate and magnify text, making it easier for individuals with dyslexia to read.
- Highlighters: Highlighting important information can help individuals with dyslexia retain information and better understand the text.
- Audiobooks: Audiobooks can be helpful for individuals with dyslexia, as they can listen to the material rather than having to read it.
- Spelling aids: Spelling aids, such as dictionaries or electronic spell checkers, can help individuals with dyslexia check their spelling.
- Word prediction software: Word prediction software can suggest words as individuals type, making it easier for individuals with dyslexia to write.
- Graphic organizers: Graphic organizers can help individuals with dyslexia organize their thoughts and ideas for writing.
- Mnemonic devices: Mnemonic devices, such as acronyms or rhymes, can help individuals with dyslexia remember important information
Examples of low-tech AT for writing
And, here are 15 examples of low-tech assistive technology to assist students with writing.
- Grippers: Grippers can be placed on writing utensils to help individuals with motor difficulties grip and control the pen or pencil.
- Weighted pens: Weighted pens can help provide feedback and increase the stability of the pen for individuals with tremors or shaky hands.
- Slant boards: Slant boards can help individuals with fine motor difficulties position their writing materials at an angle that is more comfortable for writing.
- Pencil grips: Pencil grips can help individuals with weak grip strength or fine motor difficulties hold a pen or pencil more comfortably.
- Handwriting guides: Handwriting guides can be used to help individuals with difficulties forming letters or staying within lines.
- Highlighter tape: Highlighter tape can be used to create guides for writing, highlighting important information, or outlining areas of a page.
- Sliding clipboard: A sliding clipboard can be used to position writing materials at different angles for increased comfort.
- Typing aids: Typing aids, such as keyguards or typing gloves, can help individuals with motor difficulties type more accurately and efficiently.
- Dictation software: Dictation software can allow individuals to write using their voice, which can be helpful for those with physical or learning disabilities.
- Writing stencils: Writing stencils can help individuals with difficulties forming letters and writing more neatly and accurately.
- Writing slopes: Writing slopes can be used to angle writing materials, making it easier for individuals with fine motor difficulties to write.
- Braille writers: Braille writers can be used to create written material in braille, a tactile writing system used by individuals with visual impairments.
- Sticky notes: Sticky notes can be used to mark important information or create reminders for individuals with memory or organization difficulties.
- Raised alphabet stamps: Raised alphabet stamps can be used to create tactile letters and words for individuals with visual impairments or tactile learners.
Examples of Low Tech Assistive Technology for Autism
And, while no two kids with autism are the same, they often have needs similar to other autistic students. Here are some ways to use low tech assistive technology for your autistic students.
- Visual schedules: Visual schedules can help individuals with autism understand and anticipate daily routines.
- Picture communication systems: Picture communication systems, such as PECS, can help individuals with autism communicate their needs and wants.
- Sensory tools: Sensory tools, such as fidget toys or noise-cancelling headphones, can help individuals with autism regulate their sensory input and reduce sensory overload.
- Social stories: Social stories can help individuals with autism understand social situations and appropriate social behaviors.
- Calming strategies: Calming strategies, such as deep breathing or mindfulness techniques, can help individuals with autism manage anxiety and stress.
- Task lists: Task lists can help individuals with autism break down tasks into manageable steps and stay organized.
- Weighted blankets: Weighted blankets can provide deep pressure and help individuals with autism regulate their sensory input and reduce anxiety.
- Visual timers: Visual timers can help individuals with autism understand the passage of time and stay on task.
- Structured routines: Structured routines can help individuals with autism feel more secure and less anxious by providing predictability.
- Social scripts: Social scripts can help individuals with autism learn and practice social interactions and conversations.
Conclusions
Providing access and support for students with learning disabilities is crucial for their academic success and overall wellbeing. The low-tech assistive technology solutions presented in this article demonstrate that creating inclusive classroom environments does not have to be complex or expensive.
By leveraging simple tools and adaptations, educators can empower students with learning disabilities to actively participate, reduce barriers to learning, and unlock their full potential. These practical, cost-effective strategies allow schools to be more responsive to diverse student needs without major overhauls.
The ideas outlined here are just the starting point. With creativity, collaboration, and a commitment to accessibility, teachers and schools can continue to expand their repertoire of low-tech assistive technologies. When implemented thoughtfully, these solutions can transform the learning experience for all students, regardless of their unique abilities and needs. An inclusive classroom benefits everyone.
Through this holistic, low-cost approach, schools can make meaningful progress towards ensuring students with learning disabilities have the support they require to thrive academically and socially. With the right tools and mindset, the path to success becomes more accessible for all.
Visit Maker Faire Rome 2024 to discover the newest projects and solutions for learning disabilities. October 25-27 at Gazometro Ostiense in Rome
cover image: Element5 Digital via Unsplash
author: Barbara Marcotulli
Maker Faire Rome – The European Edition has been committed since its very first editions to make innovation accessible and usable to all, with the aim of not leaving anyone behind. Its blog is always updated and full of opportunities and inspiration for makers, makers, startups, SMEs and all the curious ones who wish to enrich their knowledge and expand their business, in Italy and abroad.
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