ICT Starting Points.

ICT Starting Points.

People with dyslexia and related disabilities may have problems accessing the written word.
Using technology can not only help to overcome the initial learning process, but can also be used to provide lifelong support strategies.
A modern computer can provide a multisensory environment where sound and images can be used to supplement the written word and calculations.
A note of caution: Vista, the latest PC operating system needs vast amounts of memory and will not work on most older machines. It has certain features that will be useful for dyslexic users, but it is probably safer to use XP for the near future.
If you have broadband, SKYPE from www.skype.com and a webcam, will enable your child to discuss homework with friends online, at no extra cost.

For great deals and products visit the: BDA Online Shop

Other items of technology can also be supportive:

• Handheld tape recorder, mp3 player or iPOD.
• Digital camera.
• Portable spellchecker.
• Scanner.
• Printer.
• Electronic organiser.
• PDA.
• Laptop notebook.
• Scanning pen
• Nintendo and Brain Training program

Parents of dyslexic children and dyslexic adults seeking the way forward could start with this basic toolkit:

• PC or Apple computer.
• Access to the Internet and email.
• Printer.
• Selection of support software on the computer.
• Keyboard training program.
• Talking Wordprocessor, or screen reader
• Mindmapping program.
• Text prediction program
• Spelling / Number practice programs.

For great deals and products visit the: BDA Online Shop

These are desirable but not essential items that can be added later:

• CD-Writer.
• USB Memory card
• Scanner.
• Digital camera.
• Portable writing aid eg. AlphaSmart / Calcuscribe / Dana.

Extra support e.g. Franklin spellcheckers / trackerball / handheld voice recorder / headphones.

A Local Dyslexia Association ICT Co-ordinator or a school SEN Dept may want to collect a toolkit that can be used to assess the needs and support their dyslexic students and this would be a good starting point:

• PC computer.
• Access to the Internet and email.
• Printer.
• Selection of support software on the computer.
• Collection of free demo cd roms of useful software.
• Wordprocessor.
• Database for storing references / contacts.
• Selection of peripherals for evaluation.


Page updated: 31/10/2008