TechMatrix
Home Product Features
Product Features
Each product in the TechMatrix has features that assist students with special needs. For example, products that read text aloud help students with visual impairments and learning disabilities. These features and their sub-features are listed alphabetically below, but are found in the matrix under organizing FEATURES listed here in capital letters. Consult these descriptions for more information about these features and their learning applications:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
accessibility
A general term used to describe the degree to which a system, product, facility, or tool is usable by as many people as possible. Accessible technology enables individuals to adjust a technology tool to meet their visual, hearing, dexterity, cognitive, and speech needs. Types of accessible technology studied include both accessibility options built into products (such as options that change font size and color) and assistive technology products (specialty hardware and software products such as a screen reader or voice recognition product).
adjustable levels
Adjustable levels provide practice on a single skill or group of skills at a variety of levels. Use adjustable levels to have students practice independently at a lower level, and with scaffolded support at a higher level. Subfeature of differentiation.
adjustable rate
Adjustable rate refers to the ability to control and set how the program displays or produces information, such as how quickly a program reads text aloud or advances the display. Subfeature of customizable interface.
adjustable repeat features
Adjustable repeat features allows users or teachers to set a program to repeat instructions or items at different interval lengths. Subfeature of customizable interface.
adjustable response time
Adjustable response time allows the user to adjust how long a program will wait for a response after a prompt. Use this feature to individualize activities for different students, allowing more time for students who struggle or who have slow response capabilities. Subfeature of customizable interface.
adjustable sensitivity
Adjusting the pressure, rate, or control options of a device allows a user to match it to his or her ability to respond and control. Subfeature of customizable interface.
American sign language
This feature converts text to American sign language in video clips or graphics. Subfeature of output options.
arrow keys
Arrow keys can be used instead of a mouse to control cursor movement on the screen. Use this feature for students who have difficulty with hand-eye coordination or visual tracking. Subfeature of cursor control options.
audio notes
Audio notes allow the user to record notes in an audio format instead of in print. Use this feature for students who have difficulty writing or typing. Post strategy prompts in assigned readings through these audio notes. Subfeature of embedded resources.
audio recorded prompts
Audio recorded prompts give students a verbal alert to errors within a passage, in addition to the visual cue on the screen. Use this with students who respond better to auditory input than to visual. Subfeature of text-embedded prompts.
bookmarks
Bookmarks allow individual users to annotate a passage or mark where they ended a session. Subfeature of embedded resources.
Braille output
This feature converts text into Braille for users with visual impairments. Use this feature for students who are blind and can read Braille. Subfeature of output options.
calculator
A calculator performs basic mathematical functions. Use an embedded calculator to seamlessly support mathematical reasoning and enhance math skills. Subfeature of embedded resources.
can export notes and tags
Users' notes can be collected and exported into a separate document. Use this feature to help students gather their notes to outline a response paper or an expository essay. Subfeature of embedded resources.
captioning
Captioning provides matching text descriptions for all audio tracks on a variety of visual media (movies, flash animations, etc.). Captions generally provide both the speech elements of the media as well as descriptors of non-speech sounds (music playing, laughter, etc.). Use this feature with students who have hearing impairments. Subfeature of output options.
connection to computer
Devices included in the matrix are reviewed to provide information about their connection to computers. Check the computer to determine which connections would be compatible. Subfeatures include: portable/stand alone, PS2 connection, specialized connection/cable, USB port, and wireless.
cursor control options
Cursor control options offer the user multiple ways to navigate and make selections on a computer screen. The most common way is by using a mouse, but several other options exist based on different user preferences and needs. Subfeatures include: arrow keys, eye tracking devices, foot-operated, movement recognition, scanning cursor control, sip and puff, switches, and touch screens.
customizable error prompts/auto corrections
This feature gives users the opportunity to customize which prompts and auto-corrections would be helpful for them and to minimize distractions. Use this feature to customize the level and type of proofreading support to offer each student. Subfeature of text-embedded prompts.
customizable interface
Customizable interface allows the user to adjust and arrange the visual and audio components of the program according to his/her preferences and needs. Subfeatures include: adjustable rate, adjustable repeat features, adjustable response time, adjustable sensitivity, desktop view options, font size and/or color, graphics off/on, multilingual, and sound off/on.
customizable length suggestion list
When a program identifies a spelling or grammar error, it offers a list of suggestions. Customization allows users to adjust the length of this list. Subfeature of text-embedded prompts.
customizable word list(s)
Users can customize the word list to include only topic-specific words or only difficult words. Customized word lists can be as small as a few user-selected words, or as large as multiple dictionaries. Create word lists for particular lessons or to offer select support to individual students. Subfeature of word prediction.
desktop view options
Desktop view options are controls that adjust the appearance of items on the desktop. Use this feature to adjust the size of icons for students with minor visual impairments, or the amount and position of icons to keep the desktop clutter-free and easy to navigate. Subfeature of customizable interface.
differentiation
Differentiation describes the ability to individualize a program to meet students' differing needs and monitor progress. Subfeatures include: adjustable levels, multiple activities and levels, multiple user profiles, student control, teacher control, and user data stored for progress monitoring.
draft can be created from note, web, or outline
This feature will support students in creating a draft from their notes, from a brainstorming web, or from an outline. Use this tool to help students transfer their prewriting into draft form. Subfeature of drafting.
drafting
Drafting is the process of putting ideas in written form. Several tools can help make the drafting process more accessible and understandable to students. Subfeatures include: draft can be created from note, web or outline; graphic web organizer; and outlining tool.
dynamic
In dynamic word prediction, the suggested word list changes as more letters are typed. With each additional letter, the word list becomes more narrow and more accurate. Subfeature of word prediction.
dynamic highlighting
Dynamic highlighting allows the user to select how the screen reader highlights (colors) text as it is read ? by word, phrase, sentence, or paragraph. This feature helps students track the text and stay in sync with the narration. As a general rule of thumb, more fluent readers can focus on whole paragraphs while early and struggling students may need a word by word focus. Subfeature of text to speech.
e-dictionary
An e-dictionary allows the user to access a digital dictionary and immediately get a definition of a selected word. Use this feature to build vocabulary and English language skills and to promote independent work habits. Subfeature of embedded resources.
editing or revising guide
An editing or revising guide provides support for writing. Use this feature to help students edit their writing. Subfeature of embedded resources.
embedded resources
Embedded resources are reference and study resources that exist as a part of the program and can be accessed from within the program. Use these resources to save students time looking in extra materials. Subfeatures include: audio notes, bookmarks, calculator, can export notes and tags, e-dictionary, editing or revising guide, e-thesaurus, highlighting, outline template, search and find, and text notes or tags.
e-thesaurus
An e-thesaurus allows users to access a digital thesaurus and immediately get an entry for a selected word. Use this feature to help students expand their vocabulary and improve their writing. Subfeature of embedded resources.
eye tracking devices
Eye tracking devices detect users' eye movements in order to control functions on the computer or peripheral devices. Subfeature of cursor control options.
font size and/or color
Users can adjust the size and color of the text. Use increased font size to help students with minor visual impairments or those who would benefit from less text per screen view. Use color choices to organize or accentuate information on the screen or increase the contrast of text to background for students with low vision or for whom reading on the screen causes eye fatigue. Subfeature of customizable interface.
foot-operated
Devices controlled by foot allow alternate control options for users with limited mobility. Subfeature of cursor control options.
grammar check
Grammar check highlights grammatical errors within a written passage. Subfeature of text-embedded prompts.
graphics off/on
Graphics can be turned on or off. Use the graphics on feature to access visual materials. Use the graphics off feature to isolate and strengthen auditory skills. Subfeature of customizable interface.
graphic web organizer
These create a visual map of a student's ideas, arranged thematically. It places detailed information into broader categories that can be turned into paragraph topics. Use this feature to help students brainstorm, arrange their thoughts, and identify main ideas. Subfeature of drafting.
highlighting
Highlighting gives the user the capability of adding highlights to text on the screen. Use this as an instructional feature to mark the main idea, topic sentence, or important details, or for editing feedback. Most programs have multiple colors so that users can color-code their annotations. Have students use the features as a study activity. Subfeature of embedded resources.
input options
A variety of input devices and applications provide access to the computer and peripheral devices for users with special needs. Subfeatures include: Morse code, one-handed keying, on-screen keying, programmable or large print keyboard, scanning input, and voice recognition.
Morse code
Morse code allows users to transmit information using a series of long and short marks representing letters, numbers and punctuation. It can be used by individuals with a variety of disabilities as a means of inputting information. Users should have at least minimal motor control. This feature can be used with students who have motor disabilities and other sensory impairments (vision and/or hearing) as Morse code signals can be transmitted using a skin buzzer. Users can also input Morse code using a sip and puff device. Subfeature of input options.
movement recognition
A movement recognition device is a camera that tracks the gestures of a user, usually hand or head movements, to select or control applications. With an eye tracking device, users can select icons on the screen with a blink or focused pause. By eliminating the need for a keyboard or a mouse, users with physical disabilities can interact with the computer by using sign language or other recognized gestures. Subfeature of cursor control options.
multilingual
Multilingual options offer the user the opportunity to select the language of the program. Use this feature to help students who are learning English - or learning another language - by presenting curriculum materials in a language other than English. Subfeature of customizable interface.
multiple activities and level
These programs offer practice in a single skill using both multiple activities and multiple levels, giving the teacher greater flexibility and a greater number of options to individualize the curriculum. Subfeature of differentiation.
multiple user profiles
Multiple user profiles allows several users to work on the same program and save their activity and responses separately. Subfeature of differentiation.
one-handed keying
One-handed keying allows the user to perform all of the same functions of a standard keyboard using one hand. Use this feature with students who have good control of one hand (right or left). Subfeature of input options.
on-screen keying
On-screen keying allows users to input information on a virtual keyboard displayed on the computer screen. Users may access the virtual keyboard using a joystick or pointer. Use this feature with students with mobility impairments or students who do not know how to type. Subfeature of input options.
outline template
An outline template provides a structure to organize information and ideas for writing. Use this template as a beginning step in the writing process, giving students a place to assemble and arrange their ideas before drafting. Some programs have genre-specific templates for different types of writing supports. Subfeature of embedded resources.
outlining tool
An outlining tool helps students organize their thoughts and structure their writing. Use this feature to provide a format for prioritizing and sequencing information for writing. Subfeature of drafting.
output options
A variety of output devices and applications provide access to digital information coming from the computer and peripheral devices for users with special needs. Subfeatures include: American sign language, Braille output, captioning, print or save results, sound output for visual tasks, and tactile graphics.
portable/stand alone
A portable/stand alone device can be moved and used anywhere. It is not tethered to a wall or a computer and does not require external support to function. Subfeature of connection to computer.
print or save results
This feature allows users to print or save their work. Use this feature to track progress of students who cannot use pencil or pen to complete assignments. Subfeature of output options.
programmable or large print keyboard
Programmable keyboards allow a user to assign certain commands (or macros) to specific keys or key combinations. Users can also rearrange key layouts (i.e. Dvorak) to create an alternative keyboard. Some programmable keyboards use changeable overlays to allow users to completely alter keyboard function. Use these devices with students who have difficulty using a standard keyboard or users who frequently use the same commands (i.e. to read text on screen, speak pre-recorded greetings, etc.). Large print or large key keyboards assist users with vision or motor control impairments. Subfeature of input options.
provides sentence clues
This feature will supply a sentence clue to help a user identify which correction or word would be most appropriate. Subfeature of text-embedded prompts.
PS2 Connection
A PS2 connection is used for connecting an instrument to a PC compatible computer system. Subfeature of connection to computer.
reading rate control
Reading rate control allows the user to customize the speed at which the text is spoken. Use this feature to adjust the reading pace to match an individual student. When working on a goal of increasing reading speed, try having the student increase the rate slightly. Subfeature of text to speech.
reads graphics descriptions
This feature reads the descriptive tags that accompany graphics and images. Use this feature to help students with low vision or blindness navigate programs independently. Subfeature of text to speech.
reads instruction
This feature reads activity instructions, as well as text within an activity or passage. Use this feature to help students with low vision or blindness to complete assignments independently. Subfeature of text to speech.
reads menus, toolbars, and dialog boxes
This feature reads navigational components, such as the menus, toolbars, and dialog boxes. Use this feature to help students with low vision or blindness to navigate through or interact with the computer program. Subfeature of text to speech.
reads suggested words and prompts
This feature reads suggested words and prompts aloud. Use this with students who have difficulty with reading or spelling. Subfeature of text-embedded prompts.
reads suggested/selected words
This feature uses voice output to read the suggested words aloud instead of requiring that the user visually recognize the correct word. Use this feature for students with severe reading and spelling problems. Subfeature of word prediction.
recorded human narration
Recorded human narration is a recording of a live person which provides a more natural inflection than a synthesized voice. Use texts with these narrations to promote fluency through repeated readings and choral readings. Subfeature of text to speech.
scanning cursor control
Scanning is a manner in which items on the screen are sequentially highlighted and users can make selections as they become illuminated by using a switch. Use this feature with students who have limited mobility or control. Subfeature of cursor control options.
scanning input
Scanning input allows users to select an item (communication symbols, items from a menu, etc.) from a group of items on the computer screen, generally using a switch. The program highlights each item on the screen in order; users press a switch when their desired item is highlighted. Use this feature with students who cannot use a keyboard or mouse to access a computer. Subfeature of input options.
search and find
Digital text offers the capability to look for certain words or terms within the program. Use this feature to find particular quotes or passages more quickly. Subfeature of embedded resources.
sip and puff
A sip and puff device is a head mounted accessory that allows the user to control the cursor using his or her breath. A mouth tube connects to a switch box that uses breathing input to make selections on the screen. Use this feature with students who have extremely limited mobility. Subfeature of cursor control options.
sound off/on
Sound can be turned on or off. Use the sound on feature to access audio materials or to alert students to shift activities or stay on task. Use the sound off feature to eliminate distractions. Subfeature of customizable interface.
sound output for visual tasks
This feature provides users with an audible output when completing visual tasks. This may take the form of a simple sound when a user has selected an item or redundant auditory output in addition to a visual display (descriptions of images, etc.). Use this feature with students who have visual impairments. Subfeature of output options.
specialized connection/cable
Indicates how the device attaches or interfaces with a standard computer system. Subfeature of connection to computer.
spell check
Spell check highlights spelling errors within a written passage. Subfeature of text-embedded prompts.
spelling auto-correction
Spelling auto-correction corrects misspelled words automatically. Subfeature of text-embedded prompts.
student control
Student control allows the student to adjust program components according to his or her skill level and comfort level. Subfeature of differentiation.
supports reading math equations
Applications that support reading math equations include those that can read or produce MathML content in web pages or other digital materials, rendering even a complex math formula in proper spoken mathematical terms. Subfeature of text to speech.
switches
Switches are devices that are used in collaboration with scanning software to select highlighted items. Switches are connected to the computer mouse, but can be operated by a finger, toe, or other body part that can be moved voluntarily. Use this feature with students who have limited mobility or control. Subfeature of cursor control options.
synthesized
Synthesized speech is the electronic voice of the computer, which sounds more mechanical than a human voice but can be used with a wide range of texts. Use texts with this feature to help students with decoding and pronunciation of individual words. Subfeature of text to speech.
tactile graphics
Tactile graphics are created using specialized printers resulting in raised and embossed versions of standard 2-D images. These graphics may also be accompanied by Braille descriptions (i.e. maps for geography classes). Use this feature with students who are blind. Subfeature of output options.
teacher control
Teacher control allows the teacher to program components of an activity to meet individual students' needs. Subfeature of differentiation.
text-embedded prompts
Text-embedded prompts alert users to possible improvements in their writing products. Subfeatures include: audio-recorded prompts, customizable error prompts/auto corrections, customizable length suggestion list, grammar check, provides sentence clues, reads suggested words and prompts, spell check, and spelling auto-correction.
text notes or tags
Text notes or tags give users the ability to take notes on the screen as they read. Use this feature to encourage students to interact with text as active readers and promote better reading comprehension. Subfeature of embedded resources.
text to speech
Text to speech tools convert written language into spoken language. Use these tools with students who have visual impairments or who struggle with decoding or vocabulary. They can provide the scaffolding for students to read independently at a higher and more challenging level. Subfeatures include: dynamic highlighting; multiple voices; reading rate control; reads graphics descriptions; reads instruction; reads menus, toolbars, and dialog boxes; recorded human narration; supports reading math equations; and synthesized.
touch screens
Touch screens are display overlays which can display and receive information on the same screen. Use this feature with students who have difficulty with hand-eye coordination or visual tracking problems, and who find use of a mouse troublesome. Subfeature of cursor control options.
USB port
A USB port is a connection point where a device easily attaches or interfaces with a standard computer system. Subfeature of connection to computer.
user data stored for progress monitoring
This feature records and saves user activity and responses so that they can be reviewed and assessed later. Use this feature to track and monitor student progress. Subfeature of differentiation.
voice recognition
Voice recognition (or speech recognition) converts speech to text. These computer programs allow users to access a computer (typing documents, using the internet, etc.) with voice alone. Use this feature with students who cannot use a mouse or keyboard and have control of their voice. Subfeature of input options.
wireless
A wireless device can connects to a computer or network without the use of a cord or wire. Subfeature of connection to computer.
word cueing
Word cueing makes a prediction about a typed word based on the first letter or letters, drawing words from dictionaries used by the specific program. Use word cueing to help students with spelling difficulties increase their spelling accuracy. Subfeature of word prediction.
WORD PREDICTION
Word prediction programs reduce the number of keystrokes necessary to type a word by offering a list of frequently used words using the initial letters typed. Suggestions may be based on word frequency, word recency, syntactic rules, or word associations. Subfeatures include: customizable word list(s), dynamic, reads suggested/selected words, and word cueing.
