Free and Low Cost AT to Access AEM and UDL, engaging & including All learners with a print disability.
Assistive Technology has the potential to foster engagement, provide access and personalize learning by providing multiple options for how learners can engage with and access information and learning materials, and show what they know. Learners attend and respond with varied learning preferences and personalized methods of how they can process information, engage in a learning activity, interact with the learning environment and express their knowledge. Diverse learners with a print disability not only need their textbooks and learning materials in accessible format, but it is also required by law for educators to provide AEM to students in a timely manner, including accessible textbooks, handouts, worksheets, etc. Access to educational materials not only supports and fosters UDL, but also levels the playing field and promotes engagement for all learners. Built-In accessibility features on various devices such as text to speech, dictation, word prediction, text customization, touch accommodations, switch access, magnification, and more supports diverse learners' ability to participate in their education and access the same curriculum and learning materials as their peers. These built-in universal design features allow educators to overcome the limitations of print as a fixed format that places certain learners (those with Dyslexia and other learning difficulties, those with motor and sensory disabilities) at a critical disadvantage. Reducing the frustrations and barriers that these learners experience when content is not created to accommodate their needs, will have a significant impact on engagement and learning. Utilizing free and low cost apps and assistive technology to build upon these free accessibility features will enhance the learning experience and ensure UDL and access for all learners on all devices and platforms. Providing AEM (Accessible Educational Materials) is not just a method of meeting compliance, it is a method of engaging and including ALL learners and providing access to personalized learning and UDL for all of your students.
