Assistive computer technology, such as speech recognition software and
digital voice recorders, can help young people overcome challenges associated
with learning disabilities, the British Journal of Healthcare Computing &
Information Management recently reported.
Learning difficulties can apply to listening and speaking, reading, writing
and spelling, math and reasoning. Difficulties such as dyscalculia, dysgraphia,
dyslexia, dyspraxia and non-verbal learning disorders can affect a young
person’s performance in the classroom and in social situations.
According to the report, tools such as information recording, spoken word
processors, speech recording converted to text and word banks can enable young
learners to organize ideas and demonstrate their intelligence and knowledge by
helping them compensate for difficulties.
Advance tools, including Dragon NaturallySpeaking software and other products
available on AmericanDictation.com provide writing and memory aids for young
people to develop better studying and social skills, the reported stated.
Stanbridge Earls School in Romsey, Hampshire, a specialist school for
children with specific learning disabilities, recently began a two-year project
with Kellogg College at Oxford University to study the development of
independent learning through the use of assistive computer technology. Early
results show that the technology enables dyslexic children to dramatically
improve their writing skills, the BJHCIM reports.