Writing Assistive Technologies for Reluctant Writers: Low-Mid Tech Assistive Technology

Low Tech Assitive Technology usually refers to a wide variety of less sophisticated technology and can include devices, many items can be found at local stores, in catalogs or online. They are typically non electronic devices and can be low in cost.

Quick overview of Assistive Technology for Writing Low Tech Options.

Low Tech Assistive Technology for Writing can include some of the following:

Raised-line paper–Specialty paper helps children with their writing skills and staying in the lines. Raised lines are superimposed on printed lines. Some versions also include a green dot on the left hand side indicating where to start, and a red dot on the end to indicate where to stop. Designed for children with learning disabilities, individuals with orthopedic disabilities or partial sight, and adult rehabilitation patients. It is designed to be used by individuals who have difficulty staying in the lines of regular writing paper.

Task Strips - Visual supports can be used to break down the steps of any task. When the steps are put on a strip, the student now has those for a handy reference for the steps involved to complete the task.

SETBC - Boardmaker boards ready to print and apply to task strips

Hand-held magnifier

LED Magnifier

Magnifiers - are used for students with visual impairments to increase the size of the text and lines on the page. Magnifiers are available in land-held and larger stationary versions with or without illumination. Magnifiers are also available in screen mount versions for both computer screens and iPads.

Pencil grips - The development of appropriate sensorimotor, perceptual and cognitive skills all influence a students written output. While the most effective way to hold a pencil is the dynamic tripod grasp, some students require support in achieving a more efficient grip, thus improving their written output. Pencil grips are available in a variety of forms depending on the need of the user.

Move and Sit Wedge

The Move-n-Sit wedge is the number one OT recommended sitting wedge that helps both posture and concentration. The wedge shape automatically moves a person into a proper sitting position by encouraging a forward pelvic position.When purchasing you can choose two surfaces to sit on, a smooth surface on one side and low level circular nubs on the other for a little extra sensory input. For more information, visit National Autism Resources

Slant boards - working on a sloped surface reduces back and neck pressure, as well as eye strain. You experience less fatigue and improved concentration. Helps students in developing fine motor skills, while also providing a distraction-free surface for writing or reading. It also helps address task-related postural problems, allowing students to sit in a more upright posture.

Rifton accessible table

Seating Equipment - As we know proper posture and seating has an immediate effect on our written output. There are are wheel chairs, booster chairs, and adapters we can add to our chairs to improve access the table and proper posture . Sometimes tables need to be adjusted to accommodate these seats. Specialty trays and tables are also available.

Rifton Activity Chair Overview

Medium Tech Assistive Technology–include relatively complicated mechanical devices such as wheelchairs. They are often battery operated, moderately priced, easy to operate electronic devices. Some examples include