Assistive technology does not do the child’s learning for them. It removes a barrier so that the child can get at ideas, and show what they know, while they continue to build their skills. Used well, it can change a child’s school experience.
The main tools
- Audiobooks. They let a child enjoy stories and learn new content without the barrier of decoding. Some apps highlight the words on screen as they are read, which helps the child connect speech and print.
- Text-to-speech. Software, apps or a reading pen read text aloud, from a screen or from a printed page.
- Speech-to-text. The child speaks and the device types. It helps with writing, spelling and getting ideas down.
- E-readers and reading apps. Many people with dyslexia find that reading on a phone or e-reader, with larger text and spacing, makes reading for pleasure possible.
- Typing instead of handwriting, for children whose writing is the barrier. See dysgraphia and handwriting difficulties.
Sugamya Pustakalaya: India’s accessible library
Sugamya Pustakalaya is an online library of books in accessible formats for people with print disabilities. It was created by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities with the DAISY Forum of India and Tata Consultancy Services. It holds books in many languages, in formats such as DAISY, EPUB and audio, and is also linked to the international library Bookshare. The books are free of cost, but the DAISY Forum of India and its member organisations may charge a fee for membership of the library.
- Who it is for. Persons with print disabilities. The library describes itself as serving people who are blind, have low vision or have any other print disability. Whether your child qualifies is decided by the member organisation, so ask it what proof is needed.
- How to join. Register on the Sugamya Pustakalaya website. Membership usually goes through a member organisation of the DAISY Forum of India, which confirms eligibility.
- Rules of use. Downloaded books are for the member’s own use and must not be shared, even with other people with disabilities.
Using technology well
- Start with one tool and one need. For example, audiobooks for textbook reading, or speech-to-text for longer writing.
- Teach the child how to use it, and practise at home as well as at school.
- Keep teaching reading. Audiobooks should not replace the reading practice that is part of the child’s support.
- Put it in the plan. Ask for the tools to be written into the IEP, and for permission to use them in class and, where the rules allow, in exams. See exam concessions.
- Review. Check whether the tool is actually helping, and change it if not.
- Protect privacy. Check what an app collects about your child before using it.
Sources
- Sugamya Pustakalaya, official website, and DAISY Forum of India, getting started and FAQs.
- British Dyslexia Association, How can I support my child? Reading (audiobooks, reading pens, apps, e-readers).
- Understood, Classroom accommodations for dyslexia (text-to-speech, speech-to-text, audiobooks).
- Iowa Reading Research Center, Supporting a child with dyslexia at home.
This guide is general information, not legal, medical or professional advice. If something here does not match your situation, please speak to a qualified professional.