Assistive Technology to Support Reading

The use of Assistive Technology (AT) can have a significant impact on the ability of an individual to get information from the printed word. There are many AT tools from very simple, low-tech items to complex software that can be used to support and supplement a person’s ability to read.

If support is needed because an individual’s present reading skill is below her/his capability, it is critical to recognize that the use of AT to support reading should not replace good quality instruction targeted at remediating the skill deficits. Rather, instruction and technology use should be combined to develop needed skills while making it possible to experience success in completing daily tasks.

There are a variety of AT tools that can be used to provide the needed support. They will be addressed here beginning with low tech, simple AT and progressing to more sophisticated, computer-based AT.