Assistive Tech Used in the
Special Education Classroom

In special education classrooms, assistive technology creates an inclusive environment, tailored to support students with diverse needs. Technology is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities for a child with disabilities with both communication and visual aids.

Digital Interactive Tools Supporting Students

Michigan’s kids with seeing impairments are learning at a whole new level with this tech breakthrough. 

Great Assistive Technology Available:

  • Visual Aids
    Digital tools include graphic organizers, visual schedules, and visual timers that help students understand and organize information.
  • Text-to-Speech & Text-to-Text tools
    Text-to-speech software reads written text aloud, and speech-to-text converts spoken language into written text to help students with reading difficulties, dyslexia or other language challenges.
  • Screen Readers
    The software reads aloud content displayed on a computer screen used for students with visual impairments. It allows students to access digital content and navigate through applications, websites, and documents.
  • Adaptive Keyboards & Mice
    Adaptive keyboards include larger keys, modified layouts, or alternate input methods like switches and joysticks to help students with motor impairments. Adaptive mice help accommodate different levels of dexterity.
  • Interactive Whiteboards & Touch Screens Devices
    Students interact with digital content in a tactile and     engaging manner. This technology is helpful for students who learn better through hands-on activities and visual impairments.

Where you can find these items:

Michigan Department of Education – Low Incidence Outreach – (MDE-LIO):
Provides resources and workshops for assistive technology for students with visual impairments. 

Alt+Shift
Allows Michigan’s public K-12 schools to borrow assistive technology for short-term use.

Alchemie
The accessibility of these learning tools, through innovations like the Kasi system, an audio-based augmented reality interactive system, enhances learning experiences for students with visual impairments.

Alt Shift's Assistive Technology in the Classrom

Alt+Shift provides assistive technology to special education classrooms in Michigan. 

Special Educator’s New Tech

Bay City ISD

An “assistive technology specialist” explains breakthrough tech used in special education.