Assistive Technology - Tools for Immediate Reading/Typing Improvement

Another tool, called the Back Buddy, is specifically designed to provide self massage for pain caused while reading.

In addition to a number of mechanical tools, Proportional Reading also offers a computer tool for reading in which there is no book to hold and no eye movement is required to read. This software program enables individuals with special needs to immediately start to read any text. Any text can be instantly read out loud in real human voice fluently as it is displayed on the screen one word at a time or one sentence at a time. In addition, any text can be read silently without eye movement at any of 14 speeds up to 700 wpm. As you read silently you feel like someone is reading out loud to you, even though there is no actual voice. Also, create notes, five level outlines and two sided flash cards without any retyping of text. Review text easily and quickly. Increase enjoyment, self-esteem and grades. Skills are transferrable.

Proportional Reading software is based on the observation that many reading difficulties occur because of very small processing difficulties which can be easily compensated by use of a computer. The result is instant reading ability for many students.

Proportional Reading uses the computer to provide instant functional compensation for the 20 major reading difficulties listed below:

1. End Skipped Words
2. Eliminate Reversals with Other Words
3. End Whole-Part Problems
4. Stop Regressions
5. End Non-Stop Reading
6. Improve Fluency with Visual Listening
7. Prevent Vocalization and Subvocalization
8. Raise Speed and Comprehension
9. Increase Concentration
10. Increase Visualization
11. Improve Creativity and Reduce Stress
12. Enable Notetaking Without Handwriting
13. Get Pronunciation and Definitions
14. Enhance Perception
15. Reduce Contrast and Brightness
16. Create 5 Level Outlines Without Any Retyping
17. Review with Building Blocks
18. Review Through Anticipation
19. Review Through Interactive Tutorial
20. Experience Good Reading; Practice Good Skills

We are not talking here about eliminating the basic physical or neurological problem which causes a particular difficulty. Instead we are talking about using the computer to provide instant functional compensation for simple processing difficulties. For example, many people make reversals with other words above, below or on either side of the word they are reading. In Proportional Reading only one word comes on the screen at a time. It is mathematically and physically impossible to make reversals with other words above, below or to either side. Decoding errors of this type drop 90% immediately.

Go to our Home Page and start reading about this technology. Try out this approach in your own home or classroom within 48 hours. Prove that it works for you, or your child, or your students.