ReaderPen | C-Pen | Reading support | Human reader alternative | Classroom aid

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A video demonstrating the C-Pens in action can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXVk0bG1i1c Notable reading pens on the market include the C-Pen Reader Pen, C-Pen Exam Reader, OrCam, and the Wizcom ReadingPen. Braille displays and embossers are another type of reading aid that blind individuals can use to access written content. These devices convert digital text into Braille, allowing users to read the text through touch. They can be connected to computers, tablets, and smartphones, making it easier for blind individuals to access digital content. Audiobooks and podcasts As always, a brilliantly informative and supportive session. I liked the options for the afternoon too– spoilt for choice! A reading pen for dyslexia is a device that can read text aloud to help people with dyslexia improve their reading comprehension and fluency. They can also be practical for other people who need assistive technology. Is a reading pen assistive technology?

The next change I thought was noteworthy was the amendment to the use of computer readers in Maths and Science examinations. The guidance states that computer readers: One piece of good news came out of the JCQ’s supplementary documentaimed at SENCos and assessors, in which they state:It is also worth mentioning the exams in which human readers are not allowed but computer readers are: Qualification Reading pens are suitable for people with visual impairments or reading difficulties. However, their effectiveness depends on an individual’s specific needs. What are the benefits of using a reading pen?

The candidate must have had appropriate opportunities to practise using the access arrangement(s) before his/her first examination. Some learning audiobook tools, such as Learning Ally Audiobooks, benefit dyslexic and visually impaired users. Scanning apps The benefits of using a reading pen include increased reading speed and fluency, improved comprehension, and greater independence in reading. It supports several different languages, such as English and Spanish. The app also has bookmarking and speed control features. AI Dubbing Automatically translate and dub new or existing videos in over 100’s of languages with AI video dubbing.A candidate may use a computer reader in components of these exams that assess reading because it still allows the candidate to independently meet the reading requirements. Additionally, audiobooks and podcasts are popular alternatives to reading for individuals with visual impairments and blindness. These resources provide access to a wide range of literature, including textbooks, novels, and non-fiction books. Text to speech tools Among these alternatives, Speechify stands out as a high-quality assistive tool for learners and readers with reading difficulties and disabilities. Speechify is an app that uses OCR technology to scan text from books, documents, or screens and converts it into spoken words.

Scanning mobile apps, such as Adobe Scan or Microsoft Office Lens, are another alternative to pen scanners. These apps use OCR technology to scan printed text and convert it into digital form. Users can then have the text read aloud to them or view it on a screen. Scanning apps are handy for individuals with visual impairments but can also benefit individuals with dyslexia or other reading difficulties. For information on assistive technology that can help people with dyslexia go to: https://dyslexiauk.co.uk/weekly-blog/f/neurodiverse-friendly-apps-for-dyslexia,- apps-for-dyscalculia and https://dyslexiauk.co.uk/weekly-blog/f/dyslexia-friendly-word-prediction-software This is particularly so where a computer reader, modified enlarged papers, a scribe, speech recognition technology or a word processor will be used in examinations.Some apps focusing specifically on the primary education of students with dyslexia and dysgraphia include Easy Dyslexia Aid, Reading Eggs, and Phonics Genius. These tools are available for Android and iOS, providing a user-friendly and fun learning experience. The JCQ released their latest update to the access arrangements guidance for England and Wales earlier this term. Although it is likely that only students in England will be taking exams next summer, it is still worth exploring the changes regarding the use of technology. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best pen for reading depends on an individual’s needs and preferences. What is a reading pen for dyslexia? Reading aids, such as colored overlays, reading rulers, and text highlighters, are also helpful tools for individuals with dyslexia. These aids can help reduce visual stress and improve reading fluency and comprehension. When considering alternatives to reading pens, it’s important to note that the tool that will work best for users depends on their specific needs and the disability or condition they need to mitigate. For instance, tools that may be helpful for young students with dyslexia may not be useful for visually impaired adults, and vice versa. Educational apps

You can also find lots of really useful information in this short video hosted by Gemma, ‘ Using DocsPlus in exams’, in which she explores DocsPlus’ exam-friendly features and answers some common questions about access arrangements. This should make these assessments significantly more accessible for students with reading difficulties. Students with dyslexia frequently have reading difficulties, a slower speed of reading, or find that when focusing upon the process of reading, their comprehension and memory of what they are reading is compromised. This is especially true in high pressure situations such as examinations, or when reading unusual, subject specific technical vocabulary such as textbooks. Some reading pens also have features like built-in dictionaries and the ability to look up word definitions. They also support speakers, earphones, and earbuds. Some reader pens include internal storage and can connect to a PC via a USB cable (mini or micro USB or Type-C) for easy data transfer. What are alternatives to reading pens? This means that a SENCo must have assessed the student and have concluded that they need additional arrangements (a computer reader, for example) in the classroom. Provided this support was used regularly, it would be considered a candidate’s ‘normal way of working’ and be permitted in an exam.It’s a really positive sign that the JCQ are advocating the use of technology, as it can have huge benefits for students who struggle with reading and writing. With our new DocsPlus Universal licencing system, you can ‘mix and match’ licenses across Windows/Mac computers and iPad/Chromebook devices, so your students can use the equipment that has become their standard way of working.