Assistive technology (AT) tools can help a person plan, organize, and keep track of his calendar, schedule, task list, contact information, and miscellaneous notes. These tools allow him to manage, store, and retrieve such information with the help of special software and hand-held devices.
AT tools that assist with organization and memory fall into several categories:
Free-form database software
Used in conjunction with word processing or other software, this tool allows the user to create and store electronic notes by “jotting down” relevant information of any length and on any subject. The student can later retrieve the information by typing any fragment of the original note.
What type(s) of learning difficulty do these tools address?
This type of tool may help people who have difficulty with: organization and memory.
Products to consider
Information/data managers
This type of tool helps a person plan, organize, store, and retrieve his calendar, task list, contact data, and other information in electronic form. Personal data managers may be portable, hand-held devices, computer software, or a combination of those tools working together to share data.
What type(s) of learning difficulty do these tools address?
This type of tool may benefit people who struggle with organization and memory.
Products to consider
Paper-based computer pen
This technology records and links audio to what a person writes using the pen and special paper. It enables the user to take notes while simultaneously recording someone( e.g., a teacher) speaking. The user can later listen to any section of his notes by touching the pen to his corresponding handwriting or diagrams.
What type(s) of learning difficulty do these tools address?
This type of tool may benefit people who struggle with: listening, memory and reading.
Products to consider
Resources to help you evaluate assistive technology for your child
The assistive technology products listed on our site have been compiled in consultation with Marshall Raskind, Ph.D. This does not represent a comprehensive list. The inclusion of any product is not intended as an endorsement. The information is provided to guide parents and educators in selecting products to meet children’s specific needs.
Updated February 2010
