Accessibility tools in classrooms

    This week I took some time to explore different accessibility tools, and it really showed me how much technology can improve a student’s learning experience and how many tools are out there to support every need. Many students face challenges that can make schoolwork harder, but the right tools can remove those barriers and help them participate more fully. These tools are not just add-ons they are important supports that help students learn in ways that fit their needs in every classroom.

    One tool that stood out to me personally was Notability. I already use Notability for my own note-taking, but I never realized how helpful it can be for other learners. The ability to write, type, record audio, and mark up PDFs all in one place makes it a strong tool for students who need structure or multiple ways to process information. Another tool I learned about was Dragon NaturallySpeaking, which allows students to speak their ideas instead of typing them. This is especially helpful for students who struggle with writing because they can focus more on their thoughts rather than the mechanics of typing. I also discovered FM Systems, which send a teacher’s voice directly into a student’s hearing aids, reducing background noise and helping students with hearing impairments clearly follow along.    

    I also found a few tools that support students with vision needs. The Silver Magnifier enlarges anything on an Android screen, making digital content easier to see. On Apple devices, VoiceOver reads everything on the screen aloud so students can navigate and complete assignments even if they cannot see the text clearly. Both tools make accessing visual information much more manageable, and can be used in more than just a classroom, showing students these tools may help them outside of the classroom as well.    Other tools focus on helping students better understand written information or build basic skills. Read&Write provides text-to-speech and vocabulary support, which can make reading more accessible for students who struggle with comprehension. EdClub uses games to make typing and spelling practice more engaging and less stressful. Together, these tools show how technology can create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.