Speech to Text: Google Voice Typing
Google Voice Typing allows students to speak exactly what they want to type including the punctuation and can edit what is typed using voice commands (The Understood Team, 2022). Google Voice Typing provides accommodations for those who need an alternative to traditional written response while still producing the retired written response outcome. Google Voice Typing is a free tool for Chrome browsers specifically but there are other free dictation tools available to students who are working in a different browser or on a different program (The Understood Team, 2022).
Speech-to-text systems, such as Google Voice Typing and other similar tools support Universal Design for Learning guidelines because the tools allows all students to be able to engage in written expression of thoughts and ideas in the classroom.
Sip-and-Puff Systems
Sip-and-puff systems are a type of switch device that is most applicable for students who have mobility challenges including paralysis and fine motor skill disabilities (Neese, 2022). Sip-and-puff systems provide accommodations of alternatives to written response (Neese 2022). Sip-and-puff systems allow the student to control a computer, mobile device, or other tech-based equipment with their mouth (Neese, 2022). The device is like a joystick that the student can move in multiple directions (Neese, 2022). The student can click on different links or tools using a sip or a puff (Neese, 2022). The student can also type using the sip-and-puff device and an on-screen keyboard (Neese, 2022).
Sip-and-puff systems follow Universal Design for Learning guidelines because the systems allows students with physical limitations to participate in class to more extent than would be possible without the system. This includes written expression during class. With Sip-and-puff systems the students have the same opportunities as their peers to respond to and complete written assignments.
Flipgrid
Flipgrid is a free website that works on all browsers and devices (Goldthwait- Fowles, 2022). Flipgrid gives teachers flexibility in their classrooms when collecting student responses and requiring peer feedback and student collaboration (Goldthwait- Fowles, 2022). Flipgrid allows students to create videos expressing their ideas and also allows students to record their screen while narrating (Goldthwait- Fowles, 2022). This offers an alternative to written expression for students whose physical limitations make written expression very difficult or impossible.
Flipgrid supports the Universal Design for Learning guidelines because it gives students who struggle with written response an alternative that still allows them to adequately explain themselves to their peers or their teacher.