Technology Tip

Each week we attempt to post about a piece of technology that we believe can assist individuals who have disabilities. Check back regularly. If you know of software or hardware that has provided access to an individual who has a disability please let us know and we'll be sure to share that information.

Have Windows computer? Want to support a struggling reader or writer without spending a ton of money? So do we! We're always looking for a free tool to send home with students so that they can practice what they’re using at school.

Enter MyStudyBar from the Regional Support Centre of Scotland (RSC). They have some great educational applications (EduApps) including MyStudyBar which culminate in free, open-source programs for struggling learners.

MyStudyBar is a wonderful application that “floats” on top of whatever program you have open. In it are several buttons for organizing written work, word prediction, text to speech read aloud and magnification. Use it all over the computer; in word processing, on the internet and writing e-mail.

ALLTech™: Where Technology is About People!

Mission Statement

ALLTech’s mission is to identify and provide technology solutions to the educational, daily living, communication, and workplace challenges experienced by people of all ages and abilities. ALLTech™ promotes the use of technology that enables individuals to lead full and independent lives.

Description

ALLTech provides face-to-face and virtual consultation, assessment, professional development, and technical assistance to support the development of knowledge and skills for individuals who have disabilities, their families and educators, service providers, employers and health/disability-related agencies. Our unique and comprehensive array of services is surpassed only by our passionate commitment to providing quality support in the following areas:

• Assistive technology (AT)
• Augmentative & alternative communication (AAC)
• Universal design (UD)
• Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM)
• Computer accessibility

ALLTech serves individuals with a wide range of disabilities including persons who have cognitive, communication, motor, and vision difficulties. We can come to you directly or virtually, as ALLTech  is skilled in distance technologies and can provide some services remotely. We provide high quality and timely professional services.

Our unique and comprehensive array of services, trainings, and research is surpassed only by our passionate commitment to developing a knowledgeable citizenry, educated workforce and improved quality of life.

Background

Founded at the University of Southern Maine campus in the late 1980s, ALLTech has evolved through several state, regional, and federal initiatives into a nationally recognized center that provides training, consultation, resources, and technical assistance. In 2009, ALLTech is 'Going the distance, Changing lives' by joining the Professional Development Center at .

ALLTech has an extensive collection of assistive technologies and software.  Staff competencies include certified Assistive Technology Professionals (ATP), Rehabilitation Engineer, and Speech Language Pathologists (CCC-SLPs). Each are excited about the possibilities technology presents and are constantly searching for new and innovative technology.