Assistive Technology

More and more programs are exploring technological options - hardware and software to use with their learners. There are a number of ways technology can be integrated into adult learning:

• Technology as a curriculum - i.e. offer mini courses such as "Exploring the Internet" or "How to effectively use a spell checker".
• Technology as a delivery mechanism - use individualized software learning systems i.e. AlphaRoute, Skills Bank, etc.
• Technology as a complement to instruction - use various software to work on weak skill areas and to gain practice
• Technology as an instructional tool - use technology to enrich the learning goals i.e. using the Internet to access information on a topic or using the word processor to complete a written assignment.⁴⁷
• Technology as an assistive device - Use any item, piece of equipment, or product to increase, maintain, or improve the abilities of people with disabilities.⁴⁸

The use of technology as highlighted can enhance and enrich learning not only for adults with learning disabilities, but all learners alike. However, this section will look at how technology can be used as an assistive device for adults with learning disabilities. A piece of equipment can range from "simple" such as a highlighter, to "complex" such as a personal laptop to take notes. It all depends on the unique profile of learners' strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Assistive technology can also include tools for daily life such as cheque-writing templates, tools for learning such as tape recorders to help learners review class material and/or tools for working such as software to ease spelling and grammar concerns.⁴⁹