Assistive Technology Tools to Know
Assistive Technology Tools to Know
Assistive technology tools refer to software, apps, and devices designed to help students perform academic tasks that may otherwise be difficult or impossible. Just like other accommodations, the use and availability of assistive technology devices and services differ from college to college, but some may be provided free of cost by the college’s support services office, and lists of available technologies can be found on some college websites. By exploring and experimenting with different tools, students can find the solutions that best meet their academic learning needs and help them stay focused and organized.
Assistive technology tools include:
Text-to-Speech and Screen Readers for reading (Read&Write, Kurzweil 3000, NaturalReader, Speechify, ClaroRead, Voice Dream Reader)
Speech-to-Text, Speech Recognition and Dictation Tools for writing (Dragon, Google Voice Typing)
Word Prediction Software for suggested words and phrasing (WordQ, Co:Writer, Lightkey)
Specialized Software for Learning Disabilities for targeted support (Spelling and Grammar – Grammarly, Ginger, Pro Writing Aid, Ghotit Real Writer; Text Summaries - Scholarcy; Math – MathTalk; Science – PhET, Labster)
Audiobook and E-reader Apps for textbooks (Bookshare, Learning Ally, AccessText, Voice Dream Reader, Capti Voice, Audible, Kindle, Overdrive, Speech Central)
Alternative Keyboards and Input Devices for motor skill challenges (BigKeys LX Large Print Keyboard, Trackball mouse)
Note-Taking Apps or Smartpens to summarize content (Glean, Notability, GoodNotes, Otter:ai, Jamworks, OneNote, Evernote, VoiceIn Plus, Livescribe Smartpens)
Digital Organizers and Task Management apps for managing workload (Trello, Todoist, Microsoft To Do, Global Tasks)
Mind-Mapping software for visual learners (MindMeister, XMind, Mind Genius, Mind Manager)
In addition, there are built-in options, such as Google Docs Voice Typing, Microsoft Immersive Reader and Dictation, and Apple Voice Control, VoiceOver, and Spoken Content, that offer customizable built-in accessibility features, such as text enlargement, screen readers, and voice control. BeeLine Reader and ChromeVox extensions can also enhance web accessibility. Don’t forget to consider low-tech, low-cost options in your toolkit, such as highlighters, color-coded files, or different color paper, sticky notes, or note cards. Given there is no one-size-fits-all assistive technology, be prepared to spend some time finding the right matches for your needs.
Sources
Visser, Cassandra. "Unlocking Potential: Assistive Technology for Dyslexia." AccessibilityChecker.org, 10 Jan. 2026.
Warren-Jones, Emma. "Best Assistive Technologies for College Students." Scholarcy, 17 Jan. 2023.
"Assistive Technology." Learning Disabilities Resources Foundation, 2026.
"Episode 13: Assistive Technologies for Dyslexia." Voices of Dyslexia, Dyslexia Resource Center, 27 Aug. 2024.
