Assistive Technology (AT)

Our aim is for Assistive Technology to become part of all that we do, for it to be second nature so that our pupils can access this support independently and with confidence.

We want all of our learners to be independent and not seek reliance on an individual for support if they can avoid it. By using Assistive Technology this develops their independence and skills that they can use both throughout their lessons each day and also after their time at Moon Hall.

Pupils are supported and encouraged to use Assistive Technology through a variety of ways; through using dictation (speech-to-text) and read aloud (text-to-speech)* software, Inspiration mind-mapping software, and touch typing lessons.

*Can Bimodal Reading Enhance Reading Comprehension?

Parent/Carer guide - 'Introduction to Assistive Technologies' covering:

Use of Technology

"SENCos may wish to consider the use of technology to a much greater extent instead of readers and scribes. Computer readers, examination reading pens, speech recognition technology and word processors not only allow candidates to work independently but are also a better preparation for Further and Higher Education and the world of employment" (JCQ 2020)

Accessibility

Improve how the layout of your device looks, for example text size / style / colour and backgrounds, and the way you use it

• Apple
• Android
• MS Office 365
  • Using ‘Dictate’ in Word
  • Using ‘Immersive Reader’ in Word
  • Using ‘Immersive Reader’ in Edge
  • MS Learn - Learning paths / Certifications (become Microsoft certified) / Learn events
• Google

TextHelp Read&Write*

Did you know? 

"A year long study identified that 66% of Read&Write* users saw an improvement in reading age, compared to non Read&Write users (27%)" (quote source)

Features:

* with features such screenreader / text-to-speech and speech-to-text

* for use on all software applications and online at home and at school

* for use in exams for those with access arrangements

Resources:

• FREE download
• How to use Read&Write:

• ThingLink
• A Parents Guide to Texthelp Tools - Wakelet
• MHS YouTube –
  • Moon Hall School ‘Shorts’ (30-45 sec) video series
  • Moon Hall School 'Long-trousers' (1 min+) video series

Touch typing using KAZ

One of our Moon Hall students receiving her Level 2 qualification in Touch Typing

• Can be accessed from home at Kaz: Flying Start
• Students use their school email address and the set-up password: Moon2021! / Moon2022! / Moon2023!

Once logged on, students have the following options:

• ‘My Results’ – see individual accuracy (1^st goal = 90%) and speed results
• ‘The Basics’ & ‘And The Rest’ – touch typing lessons to start with / come back to
• ‘Just Do It’ – muscle memory builder, including Moon Hall keywords, and challenges
• ‘SpeedBuilder’ – daily practise to build speed and accuracy
• Inter-school’s Challenge – click on the cup

Additional FREE touch typing resources

• SpeedTypingOnline - has typing lessons, speed test (speed and errors), copy typing
• TypingClub - another structured programme to work through
• Monkeytype - go against the clock

( image - www.achievenow.org.uk)

'Positive screentime' at home - 'Housepoints for Homework'

Please encourage 15-20 minutes ‘play’ as and when possible

Reader pens

Orcams

Books, books, books

Merely some suggestions . . . 

Surrey libraries 

Storyline Online - Home

LibriVox

BBC Teach

As always, please contact David Curran directly if you have any thoughts, need any further help, or if you have any questions about anything Assistive Tech 😊