To access the options: Start: Settings: Control Panel: Accessibility Options: Keyboard, Mouse, and/or Display.
Microsoft Word® - Word Processing Options:  Student preferences for contrast between the background color and the text color, size of font, and type of font can all be changed within the MICROSOFT WORD PROGRAM. Once a document is open the settings may be changed and also saved for that document.

IntelliKeys®:  A programmable alternative keyboard that plugs into the keyboard port of your computer.  It works with any software that uses a keyboard or switch.  A set-up overlay is used to customize the settings.

Write:OutLoud®:  A software program that is an easy-to-use talking word processor that enhances a student’s writing success. This program provides auditory output to allow the student to hear what they are writing in addition to seeing it. The speech options can be set so that the student can hear letters, words and/or sentences. In addition, Write:OutLoud provides an auditory and visual cue when a word is misspelled. The student then has the option to use the spell checker to select the correct spelling of a word either visually or auditorily (listen to how words are pronounced). Write:OutLoud can be used to read aloud text that has been entered (ie. presenting a report orally…).

IntelliTalk®:  A software program that is a talking word processor. This program provides voice output for entered text.

AlphaSmart 3000®:  The AlphaSmart is a lightweight and portable word processor that allows the student to complete and organize written work in up to 8 different 10-12 page files.  Information can be easily sent to the computer for formatting and printing.
Co:Writer®: Co:Writer is a computer program designed to help students write complete and correct sentences with very few keystrokes.  As the student begins to type, Co:Writer predicts the word and provides suggested "guesses."  Co:Writer's grammar-based word prediction gives you the most appropriate guesses for what you are writing.  If the word is presented in the list of predicted words, the student can select the word by depressing the corresponding number and continue on to the next word.  If the word is not in the list, the student continues typing until it appears on the list or until the word is complete.  Co:Writer is used with a word processing program and the text is sent to the program when a sentence is finished.

Inspiration®: Inspiration is a graphic planning tool that brings the power of visual thinking to the computer. It allows an individual to create colorful, visual, idea maps. For creative brainstorming and planning, Inspiration's diagramming helps individuals quickly record ideas and map out concepts. An idea map can be generated within a few minutes. With a click of a button, the maps can then be changed into outlines or the outlines into visual maps. Inspiration assists individuals who need assistance with organizational tasks prior to completing written assignments. Use Inspiration across the curriculum for:  Brainstorming; Webbing; Diagramming; Planning; Critical Thinking; Concept mapping; Organizing; and Outlining.

TestTalker:  A software program to help individuals be more successful with test taking, worksheet completion, and study materials. TestTalker provides a computer version of a test, worksheet, or other form that can read the text to the student.

Kurzweil 3000:  A software program that allows the student to scan printed material into the computer from a document, book, newspaper, etc. Text can be edited. Sentences and words are highlighted as the computer reads the text aloud. The student can choose the voice, speed and highlighting colors. In addition, the student can type in his/her own documents to hear characters and words spoken out loud. Other features include spell checking and word prediction to help the student express ideas. The student can highlight, take notes (sticky and/or voice notes) and add bookmarks in documents as well as hear web sites read aloud. 

TextHelp!® Read & Write Gold V. 6:  A software program designed to help computer users with reading and writing difficulties. It can read text aloud and assist the student with constructing words and sentences using features such as:  a phonetic spell checker, document scanning, screen reading, pronunciation tutor, word prediction, dictionary, word wizard, homophone finder, talking calculator; voice recognition, and an Internet fact finder.


READING:

Write:OutLoud®:  A software program that is an easy-to-use talking word processor that enhances a student’s writing success. This program provides auditory output to allow the student to hear what they are writing in addition to seeing it. The speech options can be set so that the student can hear letters, words and/or sentences. In addition, Write:OutLoud provides an auditory and visual cue when a word is misspelled. The student then has the option to use the spell checker to select the correct spelling of a word either visually or auditorily (listen to how words are pronounced). Write:OutLoud can be used to read aloud text that has been entered (ie. presenting a report orally…).

IntelliTalk®:  A software program that is a talking word processor. This program provides voice output for entered text.

Start-to-Finish Books Series:  A series of books that are of high-interest and have controlled vocabulary by specific reading levels. Three formats are included in each set:  narrated computer book on CD; paperback book; and an audio-cassette to provide students with a variety of reading supports.

News-2-You:  This is a weekly on-line newspaper publication illustrated with line drawn pictures. Each edition consists of 13-20 pages that include current events, a recipe, a joke, activity page and more. All pages relate to the weekly lead story.

Read Community Signs:  Independent Daily Living software that presents four common community signs at once. With an auditory prompt to find one, the student is to select the corresponding sign.

Read Functional Words:  Independent Daily Living software that presents five word signs and auditorily prompts the student to find one of them. If a prompt is necessary, the word or phrase is displayed within its environmental context.

Order at McDonalds®:  Independent Daily Living software that helps students recognize the printed words of a McDonalds menu. A photograph is displayed and the student must select the corresponding word from the menu.

Test Talker:  A software program to help individuals be more successful with test taking, worksheet completion, and study materials. TestTalker provides a computer version of a test, worksheet, or other form that can read the text to the student.

Kurzweil 3000:  A software program that allows the student to scan printed material into the computer from a document, book, newspaper, etc. Text can be edited. Sentences and words are highlighted as the computer reads the text aloud. The student can choose the voice, speed and highlighting colors. In addition, the student can type in his/her own documents to hear characters and words spoken out loud. Other features include spell checking and word prediction to help the student express ideas. The student can highlight, take notes (sticky and/or voice notes) and add bookmarks in documents as well as hear web sites read aloud.

TextHelp!® Read & Write Gold V. 6:  A software program designed to help computer users with reading and writing difficulties. It can read text aloud and assist the student with constructing words and sentences using features such as:  a phonetic spell checker, document scanning, screen reading, pronunciation tutor, word prediction, dictionary, word wizard, homophone finder, talking calculator; voice recognition, and an Internet fact finder.


SPELLING:

Spell-A-Word:  A software program for teaching beginning to advanced letters/numbers. Spell-A-Word targets identification, spelling, and word recognition. It includes large print for easy recognition of the presented letter/number.


MATH:

IntelliKeys®:  A programmable alternative keyboard that plugs into the keyboard port of your computer.  It works with any software that uses a keyboard or switch.  A set-up overlay is used to customize the settings.

Coin-U-Later®:  A hand-held device that makes counting money easy. Uses realistic coin buttons and calculator features that can be used to count money or teach the value of different coins.

2+2:  A software program for students with beginning to advanced number skills. Uses an errorless learning method to work on early math problems. Drill and test modes designed to enter lists of problems for the student to practice and test on. 2+2 is compatible with the computer keyboard, IntelliKeys® keyboard or a switch.

Identify Money:  A software program that has activities to identify money by name, asks for money by value, and lets the student pick out the correct bills & coins from among realistic choices to pay a cashier in a store.
Read A Clock: Independent Daily Living software that matches activities to a specific time shown with three different clock faces. Students are to select the clock face with the correct time.

MathPad:  MathPad is a program that provides electronic worksheets for problems that you enter.  MathPad allows the student to solve addition, subtraction, multiplication and division problems directly on the computer.  Ideal for students who have difficulty doing math problems using paper and pencil.


STUDY STRATEGIES/ORGANIZATION:

PicSyms:  PicSyms are line drawn graphic symbols created using Boardmaker™ software. Boardmaker along with the three addendum libraries contains over 6000 symbols in color or black and white. Sign language addendums are also available.

AlphaSmart 3000®:  The AlphaSmart is a lightweight and portable word processor that allows the student to complete and organize written work in up to 8 different 10-12 page files. Information can easily be sent to the computer for formatting and printing.

Inspiration®: Inspiration is a graphic planning tool that brings the power of visual thinking to the computer. It allows an individual to create colorful, visual, idea maps. For creative brainstorming and planning, Inspiration's diagramming helps individuals quickly record ideas and map out concepts. An idea map can be generated within a few minutes. With a click of a button, the maps can then be changed into outlines or the outlines into visual maps. Inspiration assists individuals who need assistance with organizational tasks prior to completing written assignments. Use Inspiration across the curriculum for:  Brainstorming; Webbing; Diagramming; Planning; Critical Thinking; Concept mapping; Organizing; and Outlining.

Test Talker:  A software program to help individuals be more successful with test taking, worksheet completion, and study materials. TestTalker provides a computer version of a test, worksheet, or other form that can read the text to the student.

Kurzweil 3000:  A software program that allows the student to scan printed material into the computer from a document, book, newspaper, etc. Text can be edited. Sentences and words are highlighted as the computer reads the text aloud. The student can choose the voice, speed and highlighting colors. In addition, the student can type in his/her own documents to hear characters and words spoken out loud. Other features include spell checking and word prediction to help the student express ideas. The student can highlight, take notes (sticky and/or voice notes) and add bookmarks in documents as well as hear web sites read aloud.

TextHelp!® Read & Write Gold V. 6:  A software program designed to help computer users with reading and writing difficulties. It can read text aloud and assist the student with constructing words and sentences using features such as:  a phonetic spell checker, document scanning, screen reading, pronunciation tutor, word prediction, dictionary, word wizard, homophone finder, talking calculator; voice recognition, and an Internet fact finder.



TAKING EXAMS:

AlphaSmart 3000®:  The AlphaSmart is a lightweight and portable word processor that allows the student to complete and organize written work in up to 8 different 10-12 page files. Information can easily be sent to the computer for formatting and printing.

Test Talker:  A software program to help individuals be more successful with test taking, worksheet completion, and study materials. TestTalker provides a computer version of a test, worksheet, or other form that can read the text to the student.

Kurzweil 3000:  A software program that allows the student to scan printed material into the computer from a document, book, newspaper, etc. Text can be edited. Sentences and words are highlighted as the computer reads the text aloud. The student can choose the voice, speed and highlighting colors. In addition, the student can type in his/her own documents to hear characters and words spoken out loud. Other features include spell checking and word prediction to help the student express ideas. The student can highlight, take notes (sticky and/or voice notes) and add bookmarks in documents as well as hear web sites read aloud.

TextHelp!® Read & Write Gold V. 6:  A software program designed to help computer users with reading and writing difficulties. It can read text aloud and assist the student with constructing words and sentences using features such as:  a phonetic spell checker, document scanning, screen reading, pronunciation tutor, word prediction, dictionary, word wizard, homophone finder, talking calculator; voice recognition, and an Internet fact finder.




COMMUNICATION:

Object Communication System:  A communication system that consists of real objects that are attached to laminated 4x6 cards to be used for communication, transitions or choice making. Picsyms are attached to the card to reinforce the transition from objects to symbols. 

PicSyms:  PicSyms are line drawn graphic symbols created using Boardmaker™ software. Boardmaker along with the three addendum libraries contains over 6000 symbols in color or black and white. Sign language addendums are also available.

Flip & Talk:  A communication system that consists of a spiral bound set of 15 vinyl strips with picture tabs. Vocabulary can be placed on both sides of the strips giving access to up to 30 categories of symbol strips. It is available in large and small sizes.

PECS:  The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) focuses on the initiation component of communication, which is used in a variety of settings. Students are taught to approach and give a picsym of a desired item to a communicative partner in exchange for that item. In doing that, the student initiates a communicative act for a concrete outcome within a social context. Then the student is taught to sequence a sentence using picsyms that are placed on a sentence strip. The sentence strip is then handed to the communication partner. 

BIGmack Communication Aid:  Voice output communication device with single message output.

Rocking Plate:  A voice-output communication device offering two plates each with a ten second message. Picsyms or Object Communication Cards can be attached to each plate.

Four Compartment Communicator:  A compartmentalized communicator. Place objects, pictures, picsyms or word cards in each of the four compartments; record message for each compartment; press down on the corresponding colored switch for voice output.

Cheap Talk 4:  Voice output communication device that allows the student to communicate a message by touching one of four 2" colored squares. Depending on the model, external switches or scanning options are available.

Cheap Talk 8:  Voice output communication device that allows the student to communicate a message by touching one of eight 2" colored squares. Depending on the model, 6 levels, external switches or scanning options are available.

Sequencer:  A voice-output, one-button, sequential messaging communication device. Record messages in preset order to play back in succession. A total of 60 seconds of recorded time is available to use on 1 or 2 levels.

Step-By-Step Communicator:  A voice-output, one button sequential messaging communication device. Record a sequence of any number of messages, up to a total of 75 seconds. Messages are recorded in a pre-set order to play back in succession.  

Voice Pal:  Voice-output portable communication device that uses recorded speech.  Record and play up to 10 messages for a total of 60 seconds of speech. Configured to use 1, 2, 3, 4 or 10 buttons and attach picture cues accordingly. The student can access the buttons by touch or through attached external switches in each of ten different corresponding ports. Other features include visual scanning, two-button scanning and auditory scanning with or without cue words.

Dynamo:  Portable communication device with a dynamic black and white screen display, which uses recorded speech and allows access to several levels.



COMPUTER ACCESS:

Big Red Switch:  A 5” switch for single switch access.

SFSD IntelliTools® CD:  This CD contains 40 different activities that teach a variety of skills. Optional IntelliKeys® overlays are included for use of the IntelliKeys expanded keyboard with each of the programs.
Computer Control Panel:  The Control Panel of each computer has accessibility options. (The options available vary depending on the computer model and what has been previously installed. If there are options that a student needs, please contact the SFPS Assistive Technology Coordinator.)

To access the options: Start: Settings: Control Panel: Accessibility Options: Keyboard, Mouse, and/or Display.

Microsoft Word® - Word Processing Options:  Student preferences for contrast between the background color and the text color, size of font, and type of font can all be changed within the MICROSOFT WORD PROGRAM. Once a document is open the settings may be changed and also saved for that document.

AlphaSmart 3000®:  The AlphaSmart is a lightweight and portable word processor that allows the student to complete and organize written work in up to 8 different 10-12 page files. Information can easily be sent to the computer for formatting and printing.

IntelliKeys®:  A programmable alternative keyboard that plugs into the keyboard port of your computer. It works with any software that uses a keyboard, mouse or switch.  A set-up overlay is used to customize settings.

TouchWindow®:  A touch screen that attaches over a computer monitor for direct selection. With a simple touch the computer responds and allows students to make selections, move objects, pull-down menus, and write with onscreen keyboards.

Click It®:  A software program for making “point and click” software accessible for students who use the IntelliKeys® keyboard and/or switch.

Features:

• Create Hot Spots and scanning for software applications
• Use with most software programs
• Use with Overlay Maker® to create overlays for the IntelliKeys keyboard to access commercial software
• Activate while using your software application.
• Magnify target area of the screen

IntelliPics®:  A software program that is used for creating multimedia reports, presentations and activities. It features animation, graphic and sound collections. It also has a quiz option available. Use with Overlay Maker® to create overlays for your IntelliPics programs.  

Overlay Maker®:  A computer program for creating custom overlays for any activity that is made with IntelliTalk® or IntelliPics®. These programs create the keys for the overlay by sending the activity into Overlay Maker. Overlay Maker is then used to edit and print the overlay. It also allows you to create keys to perform multiple actions.

TextHelp!® Read & Write Gold V. 6:  A software program designed to help computer users with reading and writing difficulties. It can read text aloud and assist the student with constructing words and sentences using features such as:  a phonetic spell checker, document scanning, screen reading, pronunciation tutor, word prediction, dictionary, word wizard, homophone finder, talking calculator; voice recognition, and an Internet fact finder.



SOCIAL/RECREATION/LEISURE:

IntelliPics®:  A software program that is used for creating multimedia reports, presentations and activities. It features animation, graphic and sound collections. It also has a quiz option available. Use with Overlay Maker® to create overlays for your IntelliPics programs.  

SFSD IntelliTools® CD:  This CD contains 40 different activities that teach a variety of skills. Optional IntelliKeys® overlays are included for use of the IntelliKeys expanded keyboard with each of the programs.

Teenage Switch Progressions:  A software program that uses cartoon-like simulations about real life. The student starts with cause/effect, and moves to on time, and on purpose interactions. This age appropriate software for teens also prompts learning how to wait.

Early & Advanced Switch Games:  A software program that includes 19 different switch games that drill cause/effect, following directions and matching.

TV and VCR Remote:  Works like a Universal Remote but with only one surface to activate to control the TV and the VCR. Compatible with most TVs and VCRs.

RadSounds:  A software program that teaches cause/effect using music and animation. Comes with a variety of songs, or you can record your own. Three modes let you target cause/effect or allow the student to be the DJ. The student may access using a switch, mouse, joystick, touch screen, or spacebar.

101 Animations: Cause/effect software that places a large/loud animation on the screen after every click. Works with a mouse, switch, touch screen or spacebar.

Press to Play Series™:  A software program that teaches cause/effect using a series of four single-switch story scenes. The student may access a switch, mouse, joystick, or touch screen to activate short, animations on screen. Titles include:  Press-to-Play-Speedy; Press-to-Play-Zoo; Press-to-Play-Animals; and Press-to-Play Sports.

Battery Interrupter:  Quickly adapt any battery-operated device for switch use. The copper disk fits between the battery contacts and a battery in the device for switch access.

Power Link 2 Control Unit or Power Link 3 Control Unit:  An environmental control unit that allows the student to operate small electrical appliances through switch access. The control unit has two double outlets and is durable, portable, and meets rigorous safety standards. It can be used with any age and in any setting. Use with a corded switch (Big Red Switch), cordless switch and receiver or AirLink Cordless Switch (AirLink works only with Power Link 3 Control Unit). Various options are available including turning on two appliances with one switch or operating two appliances with two different switches, etc.  

Cordless Big Red Switch:  A switch that allows for Cordless control of electrical and battery-powered devices from up to 25 feet away. Four modes of control:  direct, latch, timed seconds, and timed minutes. Works with either a Cordless Receiver or Small Appliance Receiver available from AbleNet.

Cordless Receiver:  A device that is ideal for working with battery-operated toys/equipment that move or when the student needs to be farther away from the device than what a corded switch allows. Requires a Cordless Switch to operate. For instructions see Cordless Big Red Switch.  

Sony Mavica Digital Camera:  This camera takes digital photos and stores on a floppy disk. Video/audio capabilities are available for up to 60 seconds per floppy disk.



ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING:

Independent Living Software:  Software featuring 10 different programs to reinforce independent living activities. 

TV and VCR Remote:  Works like a Universal Remote but with only one surface to activate to control the TV and the VCR. Compatible with most TVs and VCRs.


VOCATIONAL:

Sony Mavica Digital Camera:  This camera takes digital photos and stores on a floppy disk. Video/audio capabilities are available for up to 60 seconds per floppy disk.

Independent Living Software:  Software featuring 10 different programs to reinforce independent living activities.