Assistive Technology for ADD/ADHD
Concentration is a key factor affecting individuals with ADD/ADHD’s ability to learn new information. Timers and concentration strategies are best suited for these disabilities.
Invisible Clock is a small pager looking device that is worn in the belt loop. It can remind the individual to stay concentrated by sending a vibration or beep at a specific time.
Motivator is similar to the Invisible Clock only it has more options for scheduling lots of random timing measures. Another option is the movement sensor that sounds an alarm when movement occurs.
Computer-Assisted Instruction
Methods and materials for computer-assisted instruction (CAI) have been available for at least 20 years. Early results indicated they were particularly helpful to students with a history of underachievement in traditional classrooms. However, more recent research has helped to explain why this approach is often helpful to students with AD/HD and learning disabilities (Traynor, 2003; Bender & Bender, 1996).
Mechanisms by which CAI facilitates learning are these:
Personalization
Increases student interest and improves mental organization, by helping the student relate new information to what he/she already knows.
Animation
When concepts are animated on the screen, a learner has an opportunity to apply visual learning skills and see a process in motion.
Challenge
Software is used to accurately identify a student’s acquired knowledge/skill and present materials at the appropriate level to challenge and not discourage learning. Instruction is targeted to specific learning needs.
Choice
Student-controlled features of a CAI program are expected to enhance the sense of competence through self-determination and control.
Interest
Content can be presented in a context similar to fantasy games to engage the student’s intrinsic interest.
CAI is not always appropriate, as attractive as these features are. The following concerns are important:
Purpose
CAI does not offer an advantage over in-person instruction or self-study when the objective is drill and practice. For students with AD/HD, they are more effective when the following content is featured:
- Words and symbols should be placed in a context that gives them meaning beyond simple recognition/decoding.
- Students must have an opportunity to apply what they are learning.
- In a reading program, text should be relevant to the student and within their intellectual and experiential grasp.
- Programs should foster active involvement.
- CAI should be integrated with and complement other forms of instruction
(see reference www.apples4theteacher.com).
Computer Literacy
Approaching CAI without basic computer skills is likely to prove frustrating. Until a student has acquired comfort with a CAI program, the advantages listed above are unlikely to be realized.
Other Tools for Organizing and Being on Time
A computer can assist in organization and time management through use of calendars and alarm clocks and features of word processing software such as spell check, grammar check, and thesaurus. Personal, portable devices are also available including the following:
- Talking calculator, with or without an alarm clock – both standard and scientific
- Wake-up systems—e.g., talking alarm, vibrating watch, cell-phone with alarm feature, and visual timer
- Dictionary—talking dictionary for as little as $29.95 in 2008
- Note taker and task-cuing system—range of prices from $19
- Memory aids—a variety of devices, including inexpensive memo recorder and reminder (short verbal message)
- Writing aids—voice activated, wide range of cost
- Organizers—include simple devices to affix to a phone or wall
Iron Man Triathlon Datalink
IRONMAN* Triathlon® Data Link® USB
Product Code: T537223Q
www.Timex.com
This sport watch works and acts like a PDA. It provides the convenience of a personal organizer with the performance of a full function timekeeping device. With the computer software included, it has features for schedules, appointments, alarms, and contacts along with some other miscellaneous options. It costs $90 and plugs into your computer for downloading information on to the sport watch giving it both written information and times.
Resources on Assistive Technology
Bender, Renet L. & Bender, William N. Computer-Assisted Instruction for Students at Risk for ADHD, Mild Disabilities, or Academic Problems. Allyn & Bacon Inc., 1996.
Traynor, Patrick L. Effects of computer-assisted-instruction on different learners. Journal of Instructional Psychology, 2003. www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0FCG/is_2_30/ai_105478983
CAI applied to reading instruction: www.apples4theteacher.com/resources/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=41
Assistive Technology for organization and time-keeping: assistivetech.net/search/FA_search3.php?activity=15&function_id=1