For an overview of common assistive technologies and related considerations, here is an excellent article from SchwabLearning.org.

EdTherapy has many of the following technology tools on site. While this listing is categorized by the more commonly-used features, each application likely performs many different functions -especially the OCR tools. Each tool has a link to the manufacture's site where you can learn more about the features and benefits.

Note taking and organization: Tablet PC with Microsoft OneNote

• Microsoft OneNote

Spell-cheker: spelling, grammar, sentence correction. (Not yet for Mac.)

• Ginger Software

Free Google tools: calendars, to do lists, iGoogle

• Google Products

Recording written notes and lectures:

• Livescribe Smartpen -now available for Mac

OCR tools speak digital text aloud and incorporate a variety of word processing and study skills tools, including highlighting, inserting text and voice notes, reading PDFs, and word prediction for typing.

• TextHELP
• Kurzweil
• WYNN
• Write: Outloud

Semantic mapping software allows users to organize ideas and plan written work visually, through the use of concept maps. The structure they provide is especially beneficial.

• Inspiration
• Freemind (free download)
• Mindjet Manager
• Draft Builder

StudyMinder is a free (or low cost, if you choose to purchase it) homework management tool. It combines features of a student planner and homework organizer into one, easy to use program.

• StudyMinder

Digital Books can be read using OCR tools or iPods/MP3 players.

• BookShare.org

Building typing skills

• UltraKey

Word prediction software is used when typing. Basted on a few letters, it suggests likely choices . For slow typers, this speeds up the process and removes some of the angst associated with it.

• WordQ
• All the OCR tools

Useful, free online study tool:

• i-Lighter

Vocabulary Development

• VisualThesaurus
• Cue Card

Voice recognition software turns spoken language into written text. Many students can articulate thoughts very clearly but have motor skill weaknesses, which make typing laborious, frustrating, and time-consuming. (Don't believe the cynics. It works great.)

• Dragon Naturally Speaking
• SpeakQ

Books on an iPod (or other MP3 players) are an easy and convenient way of listening to text.