Assistive Technology-Powered Tests for Those With a Developmental Disability

Intellectual disabilities can make test-taking difficult. In addition, it often requires using an ADA-compliant site or software, which can be expensive for an institution to invest in. However, per the ADA, all accredited schools, universities, and workplaces must accommodate those with a disability, which is where assistive technology comes in.

Universities, schools, and workplaces must provide accommodations for free, and upon request, to a reasonable extent. So if you’re someone with an intellectual disability, the parent or advocate of someone with a disability, or a university official or professional, you’ll want to check out these best assistive technologies that make testing easier for those who need it most.

Screen-Readers

A screen-reader is excellent for those who learn best by hearing. Sometimes, those with intellectual disabilities can struggle to read things to themselves. They may prefer reading out loud or having someone else read the material to them so they can retain the information.

If this sounds like you or the person you know, this device can be easily downloaded on a computer or electronic device. Even reading devices can be pointed over text in a physical book to read the book out loud to you.

Note-Taking Devices

A note-taking device can give so much independence to someone who struggles with comprehension, listening, or retaining information. These devices can listen to lectures or pre-recorded videos and transcribe what is being said.

Some of these devices can be edited in real-time or can simply pinpoint important points and keywords in the lecture you’re listening to or reviewing. Some note-taking devices assist in taking better notes and come with software that helps users organize their thoughts.

This device works best if the user has an accommodation to utilize their notes or note-taking device during a test, especially in one where a speaker is present or listening comprehension is required.

Grammar and Spellcheck Software

For those who will be testing on a computer or electronic device, grammar and spellcheck software may help. However, you will likely need an accommodation to use this on a test, as it may be seen as “cheating,” especially if you’re taking an English or grammar test.

However, if your test requires writing an essay or responding to questions, the grammar may not be as important to your score, and the tool may be permitted. Speak to your disability department if you’re interested in pursuing this assistive technology option.

Computerized Communication Devices

For those who struggle to speak or are non-verbal, digital communication devices and apps are popular these days. Some apps simply have photo icons that can be tapped to answer simple questions for those struggling with complex thoughts.

Other advanced devices allow the person to speak in complete sentences using a computerized digital voice. For someone with an intellectual disability, a device like this can change their life.

For example, many autistic adults struggle with forming complex sentences when speaking but can speak very eloquently over text or in writing. This response happens due to a social barrier and stress that comes with saying for those who prefer silence or can’t formulate words without assistance.
This device is best used for a test that requires a presentation or a verbal response to a question or discussion.

Speech-to-Text

Speech-to-text is the opposite of the previous device mentioned, but it can be helpful for those who struggle with writing or motor control. Using a pen can be difficult for someone with an intellectual disability, which is why speaking their thoughts out loud can be more precise than spending a large portion of the testing time trying to write in neat handwriting.

Of course, suppose this is something you need for your test. In that case, you’ll want to discuss possible accommodations with your disability department, as you’ll likely need to test in a separate room so that you don’t make too much noise and disrupt the test of the other students/workers.

Organization Software

Software exists to help those with issues focusing bring their attention to the part of the page that is most important. For example, it can block out extra sections and focus on one question at a time, and it can allow you to highlight important keywords and phrases that should be remembered in a question.

Organizing your thoughts using technology is a great way to avoid getting off-track or distracted while taking a test, and it’s an accessible accommodation to request.

Remodeled Keyboards, Pens, and Devices

For those with difficulty in motor control and refinement, plenty of assistive devices allow you to utilize the same testing software and materials as other students. For example, keyboards can be plugged into any computer with wider keys or more easily identifiable letters, numbers, and symbols.

There are also pens with larger grips and more control and computer mice with larger buttons that are easier to press. Speak with your disability and accommodation department to find the best technology for you, depending on your disability and unique needs.

Talking Calculator

If you’re someone who needs to hear things out loud to understand them, a talking calculator may help. You will likely need to be in your testing room, and you’ll need to have your calculator approved by the testing coordinator beforehand or have accommodations. However, the calculator reads the mathematical equation out loud and allows you to work through the problem in your mind.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

For many people with sensory sensitivity, such as autistic adults, noise-canceling headphones are valuable staples for any test. The headphones block out any noise, including the shuffling of feet, coughing, pencils scraping on paper, the sound of typing, outside noise, and even electrical humming.

A testing room can be a disaster waiting to happen for someone who gets overwhelmed easily by noise. With the headphones, they will likely feel more comfortable, able to focus, and not as stressed during the test.

Conclusion

You can find some valuable resources to learn more about testing and assistive technology; if you’re preparing for a test and are hoping to utilize assistive technology, speak to your disability department today and mention the options we included in the article.