Using Technology to Support Learning Differences

Technology has revolutionized education, especially for children with learning differences. At JAM Teaching and Consulting, we’ve seen how assistive technology can bridge gaps in accessibility and empower students to succeed. Here are real-life examples of how assistive tools have transformed learning experiences:

‍

1. Case Study: Enhancing Reading Skills for a Child with Dyslexia

A 9-year-old student with dyslexia struggled to keep up with grade-level reading, often feeling frustrated and disengaged. By introducing text-to-speech apps like NaturalReader, the child could listen to assigned readings while following along in the text. This dual input reinforced comprehension and decoding skills. Over six months, the student’s confidence and participation in class discussions improved dramatically.

‍

2. Case Study: Supporting Writing for a Teen with Dysgraphia

A high schooler with dysgraphia found handwriting essays overwhelming and time-consuming. The student dictated their thoughts directly into written text using speech-to-text tools like Dragon NaturallySpeaking. Combined with word prediction software, they could revise and edit independently, resulting in better grades and increased self-confidence in their writing abilities.

‍

3. Case Study: Organizing Tasks for a Student with ADHD

Due to poor organizational skills, a 12-year-old with ADHD frequently forgot homework and missed deadlines. By implementing a digital task manager, such as Google Keep, along with visual timers, the student learned to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively. After three months, the child reported feeling more in control and experienced a noticeable improvement in grades.

‍

4. Case Study: Building Access for a Nonverbal Child

A nonverbal 7-year-old with autism used an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device to express needs and participate in classroom activities. Apps like Proloquo2Go allow the child to form sentences and communicate with peers and teachers. This improved social interactions and increased the child’s engagement in academic tasks.

‍

Assistive technology is not one-size-fits-all, but with the right tools, it can open doors to accessibility, independence, and academic success for children with diverse needs. Interested in how assistive technology can help your child? Contact JAM Teaching and Consulting to explore personalized solutions for their unique learning needs.

‍