Writing

SMART Ideas

WordQ

WordQ is a word prediction software that works in conjunction with a word processor or email program. It helps students find the correct spelling of words by predicting words based on the user's input; it has a feature to read the options aloud. It also helps users type faster because they only need to type the first few letters and then select the correct word (this is helpful for younger students). There are a few different word lists or dictionaries that you can select; there is a starter list with fewer words, all the way up to an advanced list that has more words to choose from. WordQ does also have a text-to-speech feature.

Dragon Naturally Speaking

Dragon Naturally Speaking is a speech-to-text software that allows users to convert their speech into text. It works with any word processing program, emails, websites, etc. It allows users to write using a combination of keyboard, mouse, and voice interaction. If desired, a user can do all the editing using Dragon and not using a keyboard at all, by using the voice

commands.

One word of warning with this software is it may frustrate young users. It takes a lot of patience to train Dragon correctly and continue to correct it so that it learns your voice and improves over time. Remembering all the commands and talking slowly and pronouncing words correctly is difficult for some students. Another caution is students may not want use speech-to-text software because it singles them out (they have to go to the computer to work, in a quiet location where they can talk to Dragon). As well, if students struggle with generating ideas and organizing their thoughts, speech-to-text software will not alleviate those difficulties.

Below are some videos outlining the features of Dragon Naturally Speaking.

Part 1 - Creating a New User, Setting Up a Microphone

Part 2 - Training and Adapting New Voice Files

Part 3 - Setting Up a Microphone and Using the Dragon Bar

Part 4 - Basic Dictation and Command Functions

Part 5 - The Dragon Sidebar / Help Feature

Part 6 - Managing a User Profile

The following video promotes Dragon, showing how efficient it is: Dragon Naturally Speaking Ad

The following YouTube video show a student using Dragon Naturally Speaking and explaining how it has benefited him.

Gregory Robinson is a boy who struggled with getting his ideas down on paper. He heard about Dragon and asked for it for Christmas. He uses the program all the time and is able to write much lengthier passages and enjoys completing work. Watch his video here.

SMART Ideas is a concept and mind-mapping tool. It allows students to brainstorm ideas then connect them together, and create concept maps summarizing or reviewing new concepts. For students struggling with organizing their ideas before writing, SMART Ideas helps them put all their ideas on screen, then organize and arrange the order. This allows them to write more detailed passages.

Below is a video outlining the features of SMART Ideas.

SMART Ideas Demo

SpeakQ is a speech-to-text add-on to WordQ that allows users to enter text through a combination of typing and talking. SpeakQ promotes its ease of use and lack of voice commands.

Below are some videos outlining the features of WordQ.

WordQ Introduction

WordQ Demo

Communication devices and alternate input devices are other forms of AT that assist students with communicating and interacting with computers. These include switches, alternate keyboards, joysticks, etc as well as augmentative and alternative communication.