Assistive Technology Tools for Learning Differences, ADHD, and Executive Function Challenges
New 3-unit online college course:Assistive Technology for Learning Differences
- Offered by UCSC Extension under their Educational Therapy Certificate Program (AET-approved)
- See Course Listing for description & registration
- See AT4LD.net for additional course details
- Next class begins January 2023
My Assistive Technology Toolbox
(Last updated 1/11/23)
I use a wide variety of technologies in my practice, both high-tech and low-tech – too numerous to mention here – but I'd like to list the most significant ones that I rely on and include in my trainings.
These are tools that I currently use or have used with clients, and tools that I know are effective based on inputs from colleagues who also employ and teach assistive technology.
Because many technology products and utilities perform multiple functions, it's difficult to list them by categories such as "Technologies for Reading" and "Technologies for Writing" – certain tools would show up in several places – so I've chosen to list them in a more eclectic manner that's still somewhat logical.
Use this information to guide your exploration of potentially helpful technology, and please keep in mind that there are far, far more tools out there than are listed below – this is merely the tip of the tip of the assistive technology iceberg. In short, this is my AT Toolbox and it meets perhaps 99% of my clients' needs. The contents of your AT Toolbox will likely be different. ;-)
For each product or utility in the tables below, I've listed:
- Link to the main website
- Availabiity by platform (Windows, Mac, Chrome, iOS/iPadOS, Android, and/or online)
- Brief description
- Links to additional info about the tools and how to operate them (e.g., instructions and video tutorials).
Other notes:
- Most extensions for Chromebooks and the Chrome browser (Mac, WIndows) will also work with the Windows Edge browser (Mac, Windows) as it is based on Chrome.
- Amazon Kindle Fire tablets use a proprietary version of the Android operating system; therefore, they will run most, but not all, Android apps.
Please Link – Don't CopyI hope you find this information both helpful and enlightening. Please feel free to link to this resource page from your own website or presentation. That way, your website visitors and workshop attendees will always have access to the latest version. Use this link: www.TechPotential.net/attoolbox One request, though: please don't copy and paste the information tables directly into your own works. (Thank you! :-) |
Recorded (human-narrated) Audiobooks
Audiobooks are recordings of human narrators reading aloud. Most audiobook apps only work with media acquired from that provider (e.g., audiobooks from Learning Ally can only be used with the Learning Ally Audiobooks app). See the section "Resources for Alternatives to Printed Text - Electronic Text (E-text) and Narrated Audiobooks" (below) for more info about media providers including eligibility requirements and the contents of their media libraries.
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2023_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Learning Ally Audiobooks | W | M | C | i | A | Read human-narrated audiobooks; some include synchronized e-text ("VOICEtext"). Adjust reading rate. | 1 | |
| Audible app | W | M | C | i | A | & | Professionally-narrated audiobooks; adjustable reading speed | 1 2 3 |
| Audible + Kindle WhisperSync and Immersion Reading | i | A | See e-text, hear synchronized narrated audiobook; requires purchasing Amazon Kindle e-text and Audible audiobook. Spoken text visually highlighted on Fire, some Android devices. | 1 2 3 4 | ||||
| Libby (by OverDrive) | W | M | C | i | A | Borrow digital audiobooks & e-books from local libraries (library card required); use in mobile apps or web browser | 1 | |
| Sora (by OverDrive) | W | M | C | i | A | K-12 students access digital audiobooks & e-books through schools with Sora membership | 1 2 | |
| Bookshare audiobooks (beta) | W | M | C | i | A | & | Beta project with access to over 5000 human-narrated audio titles for kids, teens, and adults | 1 |
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Simple text-to-speech (TTS), E-readers with text-to-speech and other reading tools
Text-to-speech reads aloud selected text with human-sounding synthesized voices. All of these utilities and apps allow the user to choose different reading voices to suit their preferences (male/female voices, adult/child voices, different accents or dialects) and their reading needs (read different languages – e.g., select a Spanish speaking voice to read aloud text in Spanish). For some apps, additional voices can be purchased. All allow the user to adjust reading speed; some apps also provide a pitch adjustment.
Some text-to-speech utilities called screen readers are designed primarily for visually-impaired users. Screen readers not only read aloud text – they also speak descriptive information such as number of rows and columns in a table, format changes, and alternative-text descriptions attached to images, and include features and settings that control how users hear, learn about, and interact with elements on the screen. For users with significant visual impairments, screen readers might be more beneficial than other simple text-to-speech options. In the table below, VoiceOver, Narrator, and ChromeVox are screen readers.
Most of these TTS apps and utilities work with accessible text on devices (e.g., documents, webpages) as well as accessible e-text obtained from e-text sources listed below under "Resources for Alternatives to Printed Text".
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2023_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built into Device or Operating System | ||||||||
| Speak Selected Text | M | Select text on Mac, hear it spoken (System Prefs > Accessibility > Speech) | 1 2 | |||||
| Speak Selection, Speak Screen, Typing Feedback | i | Speak selected text aloud, speak entire screen contents, hear characters/words spoken while typing (Settings > Accessibility > Spoken Content) | 1 | |||||
| VoiceOver | M | i | Screen reader utility for macOS, iOS, iPadOS (see note on Screen Readers, above) | 1 2 | ||||
| Narrator | W | Screen reader utility for Windows (see note on Screen Readers, above) | 1 | |||||
| ChromeVox Select-to-Speak | C | Screen reader utility for Chrome (see note on Screen Readers, above); also has a Select-to-Speak option for simply speaking selected text | 1 2 | |||||
| Third-party Apps or Utilities | ||||||||
| Bookshare Reader (formerly Bookshare Web Reader) | W | M | C | i | A | o | Basic reader for Bookshare e-text; streams e-text to Chromebook, Safari (Mac) and Chrome/Edge/Firefox browsers (Mac, PC) - no download required, but must be online; new Bookshare Reader apps for iOS, Android, Alexa | 1 2 3 4 |
| Voice Dream Reader | M | i | Versatile reader: multiple adjustments to reading voice & text visuals; uses multiple formats (PDF, ePub, DAISY, Word, etc.); links to multiple sources (Bookshare, Google Drive, others) | 1 2 | ||||
| Read2Go | i | Basic TTS reader for e-text from Bookshare, plus books in DAISY format; no longer updated by Bookshare – see Bookshare Reader (above) | 1 2 | |||||
| GoRead | A | Basic TTS reader for e-text from Bookshare, plus books in DAISY and ePub formats; no longer updated by Bookshare – see Bookshare Reader (above) | 1 | |||||
| Dolphin EasyReader | W | i | A | Adjust various aspects of text display; designed for users with dyslexia, low vision, blindness | 1 2 | |||
| Apple Books app | M | i | Open ePub-format ebooks & PDFs; listen with Mac or iOS TTS; annotate (colors, comments) | 1 | ||||
| Immersive Reader | W¹ | M¹ | C¹ | i¹ | o | Built into Microsoft Learning Tools, available in certain Microsoft products (see next table) ¹Must have Microsoft Office products; available supports vary signifiantly by product |
1 2 | |
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Read, Write & Study Software Suites (also called Literacy & Learning Suites)
Software that bundles multiple supports for reading, writing, and studying.
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Read&Write | W | M | C | i | Floating toolbar w/ supports for reading, comprehension, visual readability, annotation (retains link to source), writing, reading fluency practice, more; features vary by platform | 1 2 3 4 | ||
| Snap&Read | W | M | C | i | Side toolbar w/ supports for reading, comprehension, visual readability, annotation, more; fold-out panel for taking & organizing annotations (retain link to source) as outlines | 1 2 3 | ||
| Kurzweil 3000 | W | M | o | High-end literacy suite with multiple supports for reading, writing, studying; tools for creating & editing accessible materials; extensive set of annotation tools | 1 2 | |||
| Microsoft Learning Tools | W¹ | M¹ | C¹ | i¹ | o | Supports for reading and writing included in Microsoft Office products and Edge browser ¹Must have Microsoft Office products; available supports vary signifiantly by product |
1 2 3 4 | |
| Helperbird | C | & | Supports for reading, comprehension, visual readability, annotation, OCR, more; access to MS Immersive Reader in Google Docs; PDF support soon; iPad version in fall 2021 | 1 2 | ||||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Resources for Alternatives to Printed Text - Electronic Text (E-text) and Narrated Audiobooks
Eligibility: Accessible versions of copyrighted books provided by Accessible Media Producers (AMPs) are generally only available to individuals who have qualifying "print disabilities". AMPs are non-profit or governmental entities authorized to produce and distribute accessible materials to eligible people. The following page on the Bookshare website explains more:
https://www.bookshare.org/cms/bookshare-me/who-qualifies
| Source | Eligibility? | Cost? | AB* | eT* | Type of Content |
| Bookshare (AMP) | Yes | no for U.S. K-12 | x | x | Textbooks, non-textbooks, kids' books, newspapers, magazines (currently over one million titles) – audiobooks availability is in beta (see Recorded Audiobooks above) |
| Learning Ally (AMP) | Yes | Yes | x | Audio-only books, audiobooks w/ e-text, large collection of textbooks (currently over 80,000 titles); approx. 9000 books available as VOICEtext: see e-text, hear human reader | |
| National Library Service (AMP) | Yes | no | x | Downloadable narrated audiobooks in special format (DAISY) – must have device/app that plays DAISY | |
| NIMAC (AMP) | Yes (school) | no | x | Repository of publisher source files from which AMPs can create accessible materials for eligible students who receive IDEA services (i.e., public school & have IEP); school must request NIMAC-sourced materials for student | |
| Amazon Kindle | no | Yes (most) | x | Millions of textbook and non-textbook titles for use with Kindle Reader app or device | |
| Audible | no | Yes (most) | x | Millions of audiobook titles for use in Audible Player app; if also purchase exact title as Kindle e-book, can use simultaneously (see e-text, hear human reader) | |
| Apple Books | no | Yes | x | x | Textbooks and non-textbooks available in ePub format (usable in any ePub reader) |
| Rakuten Overdrive | no | no | x | x | Borrow e-books, audiobooks, and videos from local library (must have library card) |
| VitalSource | no | Yes | x | Portal through which textbook publishers sell and distribute accessible e-textbooks | |
| Gutenberg | no | no | x | Free e-books and e-text of public domain materials in multiple formats | |
| LibriVox | no | no | x | Over 16,000 free audiobooks of public domain materials read by volunteer readers | |
| Epic! | no | Yes | x | x | Digital library for kids 12 and under |
| Publisher | Yes (school) | no | x | If requested through the student's school for a student with qualifying print disabilities, most publishers will provide the school with an accessible PDF or ePub version for use with one student | |
| *AB = human-narrated audiobooks; eT = electronic text (e-text) that can be read aloud with text-to-speech software | ©_2023_TechPotential | ||||
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Graphic Organizers and "Idea Processors" – Outliner, Mind Map, and Table Software
Outlining, mapping, and table software can help students organize ideas for writing, take notes while reading, break a large project into smaller individual tasks, understand broad concepts or complex processes – any information that benefits from a structured framework and clarifying the relationship between the whole and its parts. As such, I often refer to such tools as "idea processors" to help students externalize the ideas in their working memory and move them on-screen where they can be more easily manipulated. Some of these programs, apps, and web tools also include ready-made templates (and allow creation of custom templates) to scaffold a student's thinking and learning.
Many of the tools listed below work primarily as visual mind maps and graphic organizers; they allow the user to export their creations as linear text outlines, but don't allow them to work in a separate "outline mode". I've noted those that can switch between visual graphic and text outline modes (changes made in one mode are immediately reflected in the other).
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inspiration | W | Switchable map, diagram, & outline modes; multiple educational templates and clip art (Mac version discontinued 2019; existing licenses still work on macOS 10.14 or earlier) | 1 2 | |||||
| Inspiration RD (remote desktop) | M | C | o | Hosted, cloud-based subscription service for accessing Inspiration 10 for Windows on macOS, Chromebooks, or online browser; includes cloud-based storage | 1 2 | |||
| Inspiration Maps | M† | i | Switchable map and outline modes; multiple educational templates and clip art †Inspiration Maps iPad app also runs on Macs with M1 or greater chip and macOS 11+ |
1 2 | ||||
| Kidspiration Maps | i | Very similar to Inspiration Maps, but designed for younger learners | 1 | |||||
| IdeaMapper | W | M | C | & | Switchable map and outline modes (plus split-screen); 3D view; import from other apps; multiple educational templates and clip art | 1 2 | ||
| MindMup | o | Works with text-to-speech, speech recognition, and word prediction; integrates well with Google Drive; export to outline but no outline view | 1 | |||||
| Mindomo | W | M | i | A | o | Switchable map and outline modes; collaborative features | 1 2 | |
| MindMeister | C | i | A | o | Works with text-to-speech, speech recognition, and word prediction; integrates well with Google Drive; export to outline but no outline view | 1 2 | ||
| SimpleMind | W | M | i | A | Works with text-to-speech, speech recognition, and word prediction; outline view displays as hierarchical outline or checklist | 1 | ||
| XMind | W | M | i | A | o | Robust mind map software with outline mode (XMind 2020 version); many features (differ by platform); import/export compatible with many mind map formats | 1 | |
| Scapple | W | M | Mind map works with Scrivener (tool for drafting & writing reports, novels, books, etc.) | 1 | ||||
| OmniOutliner | M | Robust, flexible organizer (cross between an outline and a table) | 1 2 | |||||
| SmartArt Graphics | W | M | C | Diagram and outline organizational layouts built into Microsoft Word (2007 and later) | 1 | |||
| Tables and spreadsheets | W | M | C | i | A | o | Examples: tables in MS Word, Apple Pages, and Google Docs; spreadsheets such as MS Excel, Apple Numbers, and Google Sheets | – |
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Speech recognition (speech-to-text)
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built into Device or Operating System | ||||||||
| Mac Dictation | M | System-wide speech-to-text (System Preferences > Keyboard > Dictation) | 1 2 3 | |||||
| Voice Control | M | i | New in macOS 10.15 & iOS13: use dictation for hands-free operation of Mac or iPad | 1 2 3 4 | ||||
| iOS/iPadOS Dictation | i | System-wide speech to text (tap microphone icon in onscreen keyboard) | 1 2 | |||||
| Windows Speech Recognition | W | Basic but capable SR also allows user to create a personalized voice profile through training (cues software to how an individual pronounces words) | 1 2 | |||||
| Google Voice Typing | W | M | C | Speech recognition works in Google Docs and Google Slides (Tools > Voice Typing) | 1 2 | |||
| Third-party Apps or Utilities | ||||||||
| Dragon Home | W | Basic Dragon SR: single voice profile, no custom voice commands or editable vocabulary | 1 2 | |||||
| Dragon Professional | W | Create multiple voice profiles (e.g., different users), create custom voice commands, add and voice train new words to vocabulary, transcribe audio recordings, additional tools | 1 2 | |||||
| Dragon Anywhere | i | A | Dragon SR for mobile devices; designed primarily to use in conjunction with desktop products but can be used standalone | 1 2 | ||||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Assorted Reading Supports
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2023_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BeeLine Reader | W | M | C | i | A | & | Applies color gradients to text to aid visual tracking, improve reading speed, reduce effort | 1 2 |
| Safari Reader | M | i | Removes webpage distractions (ads, navigation, etc.) and reformats page for easier reading | 1 | ||||
| Edge Reading View (in Microsoft Edge browser) | W | M | Removes webpage distractions (ads, navigation, etc.) and reformats page for easier reading; integrates with other Microsoft Learning Tools | 1 2 | ||||
| Mercury Reader | C | Removes webpage distractions (ads, navigation, etc.) and reformats page for easier reading | 1 | |||||
| Rewordify | o | Automatically defines hard words, or substitutes simpler words, in pasted text or webpages | 1 2 | |||||
| Reading Focus Cards | W | M | virtual index card-like reading guide to aid visual focus, tracking, comprehension, & retention, | 1 2 | ||||
| C-Pen | & | Handheld scanning pens read aloud print text, define/translate words, capture lines of print text for transfer to computer (best for words, phrases, and passages vs. entire pages) | 1 2 | |||||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Assorted Writing Supports
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ginger Software | W | M | C | i | Contextual spelling/grammar checker and sentence rephraser; features vary by platform | 1 2 3 4 | ||
| Ghotit Real Writer & Reader | W | M | C | i | Standalone literacy app w/ contextual spelling/grammar checker, word prediction, sentence rwording, and other reading and writing aids | 1 2 3 4 5 | ||
| Grammarly | W | M | C | i | A | o | Contextual spelling/grammar checker; use as browser extension, desktop app, Web app | 1 2 |
| ProWritingAid | W | M | C | & | Writing coach/editor: checks grammar, punctuation, wording, readability, sentence length, redundancies, clinches, more; browser extension, Google Doc Add-on, Web app, more | 1 2 3 4 | ||
| Co:Writer | W | M | C | i | Contextual word prediction (biases predicted words based on content, selected topic dictionaries); includes typing echo, speech-to-text, flexible spelling, test mode, more | 1 2 3 | ||
| Word Bank | W | M | C | Create & edit word banks from webpages/documents, or search over 5M existing topics | 1 2 | |||
| Visual Thesaurus | o | Interactive visual word map; synonyms, antonyms, definitions, parts of speech | 1 | |||||
| VisuWords | o | Interactive visual word map; synonyms, antonyms, definitions, parts of speech | 1 | |||||
| Clicker Writer | C | i | Word processor w/ supports for elementary students & emergent writers: typing echo, word prediction, picture support, "Clicker Grids" (build sentences from whole words/phrases) | 1 2 3 | ||||
| Clicker 8 | W | M | Same as Clicker Writer, plus mind maps, Cloze activities, speaking & listening activities | 1 2 3 | ||||
| DocsPlus | W | M | C | i | Word processor w/ supports for middle/high school students: mind maps, speech feedback, word prediction, voice notes, word banks, vocabulary support (features vary by platform) | 1 2 3 | ||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Taking Notes & Organizing Knowledge
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preview | M | Annotate PDFs with colored text highlighters, text notes, shapes, freehand sketches | 1 | |||||
| Adobe Acrobat Reader/Pro | W | M | i | o | Annotate PDFs with colored text highlighters, text notes, shapes, freehand sketches, voice notes (voice recording snippets); Pro version includes OCR (convert scanned image to text) | 1 | ||
| Kami | C | Annotate PDFs with colored text highlighters, text notes, shapes, freehand sketches, voice notes (voice recording snippets); also includes OCR (convert scanned image to text) | 1 2 | |||||
| OrbitNote (formerly Texthelp PDF Reader) | C | Annotate PDFs with colored text highlighters, text notes, shapes, freehand sketches, voice notes (voice recording snippets); use with Snapverter to convert scanned image to text | 1 2 | |||||
| Snap&Read PDF Reader Workspace | C | Google Drive Add-on that allows Snap&Read to work with PDFs in Google Drive (TTS, colored text highlighters, text notes, shapes, freehand sketches, stamps) | 1 2 | |||||
| ClaroPDF | i | Annotate PDFs with colored text highlighters, text notes, shapes, freehand sketches, voice notes (voice recording snippets); also photo-to-PDF and OCR (convert image to text) | 1 | |||||
| Livescribe smartpens | W | M | i | A | Pens record audio (e.g., lecture) & synchronize with handwritten notes (requires special paper); tap note to reply audio from that point; upload audio+notes to computer or tablet | 1 2 3 | ||
| Notability app | M | i | Capture notes (handwritten, typed), drawings, photos, audio to notepages in digital notebook; tap note or image to replay audio & visual notes from that point; other features | 1 2 | ||||
| AudioNote 2 app | W | M | i | A | Capture notes (handwritten, typed), drawings, photos, audio to notepages in digital notebook; tap note or image to replay audio & visual notes from that point; other features | 1 2 | ||
| Sonocent Audio Notetaker | W | M | Records audio, synchronizes with slides, personal notes, other docs; audio displayed as visual timeline that can be annotated; appropriate for college, possibly secondary students | 1 2 3 | ||||
| Glean | i | A | o | Cloud-based service records continuous audio, synchronizes this with slides, images, personal notes, and annotations; audio displayed as visual timeline | 1 2 | |||
| Microsoft OneNote | W | M | C | i | A | o | Digital notebook organized like a binder (ordered notepages in sections in notebooks); capture notes, media, Web clippings, etc.; synchronized recorded audio to notes; features differ by platform | 1 |
| Evernote | W | M | C | i | A | o | Digital notebook organized like a filing cabinet (unordered notecards grouped in notebooks in "stacks"); capture & organize notes, media, Web clippings, etc.; robust search features | 1 2 |
| Google Keep | W | M | C | i | A | o | Analogous to digital bulletin board (displays everything at once); colored notes displayed in columns, can contain plain text, checklists, images, drawings, Web clippings, reminders | 1 |
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Math & Science Notation, Graphing, and Drawing
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2023_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ModMath | C¹ | i | A¹ | Digital math grid for "typing" stacked math (+ – x ÷) and fractions through simple algebra; exchange ModMath worksheets with teacher; snap photo of math problem, place on grid; ¹Chrome/Android versions available soon | 1 2 | |||
| Math Paper (formerly Panther Math Paper) | i | Digital math grid for "typing" stacked math (+ – x ÷) and fractions through simple algebra; includes features to assist students with motoric challenges (e.g., cerebral palsy) | 1 2 | |||||
| KiwiWrite Math | W | M | C | i² | o | Digital math grid for "typing" stacked math (+ – x ÷) and fractions through high school math (trig, pre-calc); import worksheets, web-based file storage; ²iPad only (not iPhone/iPad mini) | 1 | |
| EquatIO | W | M | C | Type, dictate, or handwrite (need touchscreen) math and chemistry equations and formulas (not for vertical/stacked math); includes math & chemistry "prediction" and "math-to-speech" | 1 2 3 4 5 | |||
| Microsoft Insert Equation, Equation Editor | W | M | C | i | A | o | Type or handwrite math expressions (pre-algebra through calculus & beyond) in MS apps (Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, Outlook, etc.) using dropdwn menus for symbols & templates; note: MS Equation Editor (included in MS apps 2017 and earlier) discontinued | 1 2 3 |
| MathType | W | M | C | Type math expressions (pre-algebra through calculus & beyond) in Word, Pages, Google Docs, & other documents; user interfaces for Desktop & Web versions differ significantly (Desktop version provides keyboard shortcuts for every symbol & template) | 1 2 3 4 | |||
| ChemType | C | Type chemical expressions and equations into Google Docs | 1 | |||||
| GeoGebra | W | M | C | i | A | o | Interactive math visualization tools that combine geometry, algebra, spreadsheets, graphing, statistics, and calculus. | 1 2 3 4 |
| Desmos Graphing Calculator and Geometry Tool | i | A | o | Create simple to complex graphs and geometry drawings; Desmos Graphing Calculator is also a component of EquatIO software (see above) | 1 | |||
| FX Equation | W | M | Quickly type math equations (pre-algebra through calculus & beyond); FX products primarily for secondary & college; school can request free licenses for students w/ qualifying disabiities | 1 2 3 | ||||
| FX Graph | W | M | Draw simple to complex graphs (including 3D) by typing | 1 2 | ||||
| FX Draw | W | M | Create simple to complex drawings for geometry and science by typing | 1 2 | ||||
| FX Chem | W | M | Type properly-formatted chemical equations and formulas | 1 2 | ||||
| FX ChemStruct | W | M | Draw structural diagram of chemical compounds by typing the structural formula | 1 2 | ||||
| FX Stat | W | M | Draw complex statistical plots and graphs by typing | 1 2 | ||||
| MathTalk (software retired in Jan.'22 after 23 years) | W | Acts as "middleman" between Dragon Professional Individual speech recognition and Scientific Notebook (for creating professional and college-level scientific documents) | n/a | |||||
| Mathshare | o | Math notation space to show & explain problem-solving steps; math-to-speech, speech recognition (explain thinking); for horizontal math expressions/equations (pre-algebra & up) | 1 2 3 | |||||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Math Concepts
Apps and resources to help understand abstract math concepts with visual manipulatives.
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Library of Virtual Manipulatives | o | Over 100 free interactive virtual manipulatives, visual math, and concept tutorials; dozens of math categories, grouped by grade levels; detailed parent/teacher guides (requires legacy version of Java, or use with CheerpJ Applet Runner extension for Chrome browser) | 1 | |||||
| MATTI Math | W | M | Enhanced offline version of NLVM's manipulatives (above) with multilingual support | 1 | ||||
| Math Learning Center | C | i | o | Free interactive virtual manipulatives based on Bridges in Mathematics (comprehensive PK–5 curriculum to help teachers implement Common Core State Standards for Mathematics); instructions in each app | 1 | |||
| Brainingcamp | W | M | C | i | Interactive virtual manipulatives for desktop or tablet; 30-day trials; offers free "Manipulative of the Week" on iPad for trying additional VMs | 1 2 | ||
| Mathigon Polypad | o | Online workspace for wide range of virtual manipulatives; also see comprehensive Polypad Teacher Guide and free lesson plans, videos, and resources | 1 2 | |||||
| EquatIO Math Space | W | M | C | Multi-faceted collaborative workspace for drawing and writing math | 1 2 3 | |||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Math Problem Solving and Processes
Apps and resources to help understand and practice multistep problem solving and sequencing steps.
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algebra Touch | M† | i | Teaches procedural algebra by walking user through cumulative lessons; combine, expand, move, cancel, & factor terms by simply tapping and dragging (engages kinesthetic sense) †Algebra Touch iPad app also runs on Macs with M1 or greater chip and macOS 11+ |
1 | ||||
| Long Division Touch | i | Similar to Algebra Touch – kinesthetically and visually learn process of long division | 1 | |||||
| Graspable Math | o | Uses a GeoGebra workspace to show how to manipulate equations to solve problems | 1 | |||||
| Esa Helttula Math Apps | W | M | i | Interactive math apps help students practice & integrate math problem-solving methods; use of touchscreen integrates tactile sense; all apps include detailed instructions & videos | 1 | |||
| Khan Academy | o | Extensive library of instructional videos for all aspects of math categorized by concept/grade; helps students review & math concepts, see different approaches to solving problems | 1 | |||||
| PhotoMath | i | A | Check math solutions by snapping photo of equation, app reads & solves math problem, listing each step & detailed instructions, animations; to be used for checking, not cheating | 1 | ||||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Assorted Aids for Managing Digital Distractions
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isolator | M | Dims, blurs, or hides all but frontmost window to reduce visual distractions (Mac) | 1 | |||||
| HazeOver | M | Dims or hides all but frontmost window to reduce visual distractions (Mac) | 1 | |||||
| ScreenRuler | W | M | Dims webpage except for movable horizontal reading ruler to aid visual focus, tracking | 1 2 | ||||
| AdBlock | W | M | C | Browser extension prevents ads from loading to webpages | 1 | |||
| Text Mode | C | Replaces webpage images and videos w/ gray rectangles for uncluttered text-only reading | 1 | |||||
| SelfControl | M | Restricts access to selected websites for preset time | 1 | |||||
| StayFocusd | C | Restricts access to selected websites for preset times | 1 | |||||
| Cold Turkey | W | M | Restricts access to selected apps, websites for preset times | 1 | ||||
| RescueTime | W | M | Tracks time spent on apps, websites to improve time awareness, decision-making | 1 | ||||
| Forest | i | A | Plant digital trees, watch forest grow as evidence of “non-phone” time | 1 | ||||
| Screen Time | M | i | Schedule screen "downtime"; set maximum daily times on app categories & features; monitor time spent on apps, websites; receive daily/weekly feedback | 1 2 3 4 5 | ||||
| Google Digital WellBeing | A | Features similiar to Screen Time, but only for some Android devices | 1 | |||||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Assorted Aids for Attention and Executive Functioning
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reminders | M | i | Simple but capable to-do lists with alerts; included with Macs and iOS devices | 1 | ||||
| Trello | i | A | o | Kanban-based task manager (move task cards through a workflow: e.g., columns for To do, Doing, Done); set up Kanban "boards" for different projects | 1 | |||
| MeisterTask | W | M | i | A | o | Another simple Kanban-based task manager; easy to learn | 1 2 | |
| Microsoft To Do | W | M | A | o | Microsoft's take on the excellent Wunderlist task manager (they purchased the company) | 1 | ||
| Todoist | W | M | C | i | A | o | Robust list-based task manager with built-in calendar view | 1 2 |
| Focus Matrix | M | i | App based on 2-by-2 priority matrix (aka Eisenhower Box) – all tasks categorized as Important/Not Important & Urgent/Not Urgent; method popularized by Steven Covey | 1 2 | ||||
| Ayoa | o | Graphic organizer-based task management app; also includes Kanban & list layouts | 1 | |||||
| Habitica | i | A | "Gamified task manager" to help accomplish goals, be organized, and stay motivated | 1 | ||||
| Forest | i | A | Plant digital trees, watch forest grow as evidence of “non-phone” time | 1 | ||||
| Brili Routines (versions for kids and adults) | i | A | o | Parents creates "routines" (sequence of steps) for different times of day; kids follow visual timelines to complete steps, internalize routines, earn rewards | 1 2 | |||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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Assorted Aids to Support Mental Health and Wellness
Many kids with learning and attention challenges also deal with psychological and emotional issues such as anxiety and depression. These might be separate conditions, or they might be a product of having to cope with their learning and attention challenges. The following are a sampling of apps and online tools to help students with sleep, exercise, social connections, managing stress, and balancing their life. Many of these have been evaluated and recommended by students who found that they improve emotional well-being and resilience.
| Device or Software | Platform* | Description / Noteworthy Features ©_2021_TechPotential | Learning** | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Noise | W | M | C | i | A | & | Generate ambient noise, create your own sound “mixes” to relax, meditate, aid sleep | 1 |
| Calm | i | A | Practice meditation and mindfulness to reduce anxiety, promote restful sleep | 1 2 | ||||
| Stop Breathe Think (no longer offering services as of 4/14/22) | i | A | Practice mindfulness and reduce stress with guided meditations | 1 | ||||
| Wysa | i | A | Anonymous AI chatbot to help work through anxiety, practice mindfulness, track mood | 1 2 | ||||
| Pax, the OCD bot | o | Anonymous Facebook “chatbot” to cope with uncomfortable feelings, intrusive thoughts | 1 | |||||
| K'Bro (as in “You OK, bro?”) | i | A | Game & safe place help boys anonymously assess/track their emotions, receive guidance | 1 | ||||
| MyFitnessPal, MapMyRun | i | A | Track exercise progress, get regular feedback on exercise and nutrition; Run tracker provides motivation to sustain good practices & decision-making, get results | 1 | ||||
| *Platform: W=Windows; M=Mac; C=Chrome; i=iOS/iPadOS; A=Android; o=online; &=other | **Learning: Links to selected online training resources and video tutorials Online Personal Training (OPT) also available through TechPotential - email or call for details |
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