When one thinks about the accurate use of spelling and grammar when writing assignments at university, it is easy to take for granted the use of inbuilt spell checkers within word processor apps. That said, most of us perhaps do not consider that when using a spell checker, time and significant cognitive effort are used to select the correct word from a list of predictions. The actual task of choosing an option from a list can slow one down in the process of writing and for some, it can be tiring.
If we were then to add physical disability into the mix, then this process can get harder. With physical disability, the use of a computer may not be via a keyboard and mouse e.g a switch interface, and so having to navigate computer software that has not been written with these access needs in mind can be challenging at times.
There are many options for using a spelling and grammar checker that meet the various needs of the user. There isn’t a ‘best option’ for every student, but individual students might find their own ‘best option’ where the user interface works especially well for them. We recommend trying out different types of software to ensure the best fit for the user.
When the student finds software that is enabling for them for their coursework, then they can expect to find gains in productivity as well as confidence and a sense of academic empowerment.
Here at Aventido, we champion software that has been developed with the significant needs of students who experience barriers to education related to various types of disability.
In terms of spelling and grammar, we currently showcase Lightkey, the artificial intelligence-based software that will help a student who struggles with writing to be more accurate with spelling and grammar, as well as save time. This is great for students who experience challenges related to depression, dyslexia, ADHD/ADD, and Autism but what about physical disability?
Watch the video below to watch James demonstrate how Lightkey works:
Lightkey and physical disability.
As James showed in the video, Lightkey has been written for users experiencing cognitive and physical disabilities, in mind.
In a nutshell, Lightkey provides features that reduce the number of keystrokes required to use the software as this reduces the amount of physical interaction required of the user. This can reduce levels of pain as well as help boost cognitive ability.
The software learns how the user uses language and so the predictions made are based on words or phrases that the user is most likely to use thus reducing the need to stare at a list of predictions and make decisions on which word or phrase to use. The software will also learn key sentences that the user often uses so that potentially one keystroke can be used to generate the equivalent of many keystrokes, saving time and effort.
Find out more about Lightkey
James is often presenting webinars on Lightkey as well as providing training to AT practitioners. We also have a recommendation guide for DSA Needs Assessor available.
All the information can be found on our Lightkey product page. Click the banner below to learn more.
