This document discusses assistive technology for English as a second language (ESL) classrooms. It outlines principles of universal design for learning that ensure equal access through barrier removal and allowing students to choose how they represent, engage with, and express their learning. Assistive technologies on a continuum from low to high tech are described, including examples like word processors, screen readers, and text-to-speech software. The implications for ESL instruction include using multimedia, translation tools, and computer-assisted language learning software to modify and differentiate instruction for students.

1. Assistive Technology for the
ESL Classroom
Tiffany Hoefer, M.Ed. Candidate
University of South Carolina Aiken
Every Student can Learn

2. Universal Design Principles
CAST Organization (www.cast.org)
 Benefits all students
 Equal access through barrier removal
 Student control

3. Universal Design for Learning
Educational Extension of the Universal
Design Movement
Incorporation of UDL Principles
Broader curriculum access

4. The Multiple Means
Representation
Student action
Student expression
Engagement

5. Students Choose How They:
 Respond to lesson content
 Demonstrate their learning
 Learn
Students using different educational tools

6. Assistive Technology for Learning (ATL)
 Specialized for a specific student
 Addresses a specific disability
 Not used by mainstream users
 User qualifies as having disability
 Life enhancing

7. Assistive Technology Continuum
 No Tech
 Low Tech
 Medium Tech
 High Tech

8. Is All Technology Assistive
Technology?
 Lines continue to blur between
 Educational technology
 Instructional technology
 Assistive technology

9. Technology Enhanced Solutions
Assorted Assistive Technology Devices

10. Implications for ESL
 Multimedia
Animation – receptive and productive
 Language mediation
 Modified and differentiated curriculum
 Translation tools

11. Implications for ESL (cont.)
 Computer assisted language learning
(CALL)
 Speech to Text
 Text to Speech
 Webcasts and podcasts

12. Generic “Must haves”
 Word processor
 Internet browser
 Typing / computer familiarity program
 Learning Management Systems

13. Accessibility Options
Microsoft Accessibility Logo Macintosh Universal Access Logo

14. Microsoft
Accessibility Wizard
Microsoft Magnifier
Microsoft Narrator
On Screen Keyboard

15. Macintosh
 System Preferences, Universal Access
 Visual – Zoom, Background
 Audio – Text-to-Speech
 Keyboard – Numeric
 Mouse – Speed, Sticky Keys, Slow Keys

16. Pod Casts
 Audacity
http://audacity.sourceforge.net
 Ghost Reader
http://www.assistiveware.com

17. Language Learning Software
 Developmental Scope and Sequence
 Language strands
 Networked and online versions
 Learning management systems
 Authoring capabilities

18. Remember
Every student
should have the
chance to learn