You
will learn about specialized “high-tech” assistive technology later
in this section. This activity will show you how common items like tools,
hardware store materials, office supplies, and household items can help
you with your schoolwork. Because there really isn't a word for these
things, we refer to them as “everyday items.” People with disabilities
can use these items to lessen the effects of their limitations. They
are usually “low-tech” solutions, are familiar, and are easy to buy.
You may discover that you don't need “high-tech” solutions after experimenting
with everyday items. Here are some examples:
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- Kate has trouble
reading small print. When she writes assignments down
in a monthly planner she has trouble reading what was
written, so Kate has switched to a larger wall calendar
where she can write big with a thick pen.
- Andrea has
trouble studying when she can hear people talking (which
is almost everywhere). She bought some earplugs at the
drug store.
- Kristin can't
take notes in class so she tape records the teacher's
lecture.
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Review
the information you gathered on your disability, preferred learning
style, and accommodations in Activities 1-9. Give yourself a lot
of credit; you have learned a lot about how you learn.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I already use everyday items to make doing schoolwork easier?
- When do I use them? Why? How effective are they?
- How did I discover that this would make
schoolwork easier for me?
- What else should I try to make schoolwork
easier?
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Write a list of some
everyday items you use to accomplish daily tasks in column B of
the Assistive Technology Self-Evaluation Guide (What strategies,
materials, equipment, and technology tools have you already used?)
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