Many physical learning aids help individuals with problems hearing, seeing, sitting or moving around in the normal learning environment. These devices include a wide range of technology, such as hearing aids, electronic wheelchairs, special computer screens with large fonts and braille for blind students. These devices help students participate in a normal academic setting by augmenting impaired physical attributes in order to allow students to learn along with other non-impaired students.
An abundance of devices exist to aid students in communication with teachers and others. Many times, these devices are also physical aids, but they have the specific function of helping students communicate. For example, many computers or handheld devices allow students to speak aloud and dictate words that will appear on the screen. This helps students who many not be able to type. Other devices enlarge text on a screen or read text aloud, helping students with blindness or difficulty seeing.
Many students with learning disadvantages may not be able to keep up with the pace of others, and so they need remedial learning devices that help reinforce certain concepts. Digitized lesson plans, instructional software that repeats teacher lesson plans, online dictionary, tape recorders and organizational software can help students stay organized and aware of material that may be misunderstood or missed in class. In cases where students have reading disabilities, such as dyslexia, word processors with special accommodations can help students re-read materials for a better understanding.
Many students with learning disadvantages that prevent traditional learning may need special tools to assist in learning concepts. Portable word processors, optical character recognition software, proofreading programs, talking calculators, audio books, alternative keyboards and special remedial learning software are all examples of computer programs that help students learn in alternative ways. Many schools offer these materials in alternative learning classrooms. In addition, more common technology, such as email and cell phones, allow educators to communicate with families to assist in learning at home as well as at school.