Word Prediction Software (Penfriend)
In our school, we have started to use text prediction software (not the same one listed above, but similar). This helps a multitude of students with learning disabilities that affect their written language. According to Penfriend's website, Penfriend software “benefits users who have dyslexia, visual impairment or physical [disabilities], including Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease, Stroke, limb deformities and any condition which impairs the ability to write with a keyboard.” This software can help students become more confident writers as the software is able to predict the next word in a sentence as a student is writing, making the writing process more fluid and faster for students who struggle with typing. This could be particularly beneficial for ESL students, or those who struggle with their grammar and fluency.
Our English teachers here have started using Audio Books within their classroom for students who have troubles reading on their own. This allows students who have difficulty reading to follow along with someone reading to them. This can help increase the student's vocabulary, as well as help with their reading comprehension and fluency. Students can listen to the book as a class, or individually using a personal listening device. For some students, listening to an audiobook can also help them to make more connections and think more critically about the content of the novel, rather than trying to solely decode the text. Students can gain a greater appreciation for literacy and different texts which they may have previously felt isolated from due to their reading level or language barrier. By listening to another source read the book aloud, students who have trouble decoding emotions and humor may gain a greater understanding of its and role in the text by hearing the expression in the reader’s voice.
Personal Listening Systems
Although we only have this available in our Theatre, our school has invested in a Personal Listening System, which allows the speaker to broadcast their voice directly into the user's ear by use of headphones or earphones. The unit we have connects directly into our sound system, so no special microphone is required. These can help with students who have a hearing disability, or even those who have trouble paying attention by allowing the user to focus more clearly on the speakers' voice. Rather than having to isolate students by moving them to preferential seating, students can sit anywhere within the room provided they have the device. Student comprehension is aided by these systems as the student can listen more attentively to the presentation and put a greater focus on the content, rather than struggling to focus or listen to a faint sound.
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