Tablet PCs – An Assistive Technology for Students with Reading Difficulties?

Abstract

Abstract—This paper presents the results of a descriptive case study concerning adoption of iPad or other tablets as assistive technology. Two pilot studies concerning the adoption and use of the iPad for active reading in a teaching/learning situation have recently been conducted at elementary school level and at university level. In the course of both studies, students with reading difficulties were encountered. For each group of students, a key case has been chosen. The paper presents our findings regarding adjustments that needed to be made for these students and initial research on iPad usability for students with special education needs. By describing two instances, one involving a university student and the other two elementary school children, we hope to bring attention to application of ICT for students with reading difficulties. Students with this kind of impairment are often neglected in comparison to students with visual impairments or other disabilities. In one case, the iPad has been successfully integrated into students ’ life as an assistive technology. The cases may be both instructive and inspirational for educational situations involving students with similar disabilities as adjustments and applications used to help students do not involve any large investments in software or devices. Keywords-assistive technology; iPad; reading difficulties; tablet PC; technology adoption I.