When utilizing Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM) with a student with a print disability, the use of Assistive Technology (AT) is often required and supports the student's learning. Assistive Technology is any device, piece of equipment or product that makes it easier for someone with a disability to live more independently and safely, work at a job, learn in school, get about their community or pursue play and leisure. AT can be custom-made or purchased commercially.

The following are Assistive Technologies that are often used with AIM and support student learning:

• Braille Display or Terminal
• Screen Readers
• Braille Embossers
• E-Book Readers
• Screen Magnifiers
• Electronic Braille Notetakers

Braille Display or Terminal

Although much of the instructional content that has been converted into Braille will take the form of a Braille book, increasingly people who are Braille users are utilizing a refreshable Braille display.

A refreshable Braille display or Braille terminal is an electro-mechanical device for displaying Braille characters, usually by means of raising dots through holes in a flat surface. Blind computer users, who cannot use a normal computer monitor, use it to read text output. Speech synthesizers are also commonly used for the same task, and a blind user may switch between the two systems or use both at the same time depending on circumstances. (Source Wikipedia)

Need more help?

The National Center on AIM Product Tutorials is a resource for learning about and comparing technologies that support the specialized formats of AIM.

Our Training page lists local and regional workshops and webinars on AIM

Our Technical Assistance page provides a listing of Maine organizations that can provide help.

Resources available to your school district may include:

• Representatives of the vendor of the AIM and AT products
• School librarians and media specialists
• School Technology Integrators
• District Assistive Technology Specialists
• District Technology Coordinator
• Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) Integration Mentors

AT and AIM Continues - Screen Readers ->

Photo Credit: Licensed by Creative Commons by Sebastien.delorme