Dyscalculia is the term used for math-specific learning disabilities. Students with dyscalculia vary greatly in their abilities, though generally students have difficulty with spatial and language processing. With the help of the assistive technologies and alternate learning methods below, students with dyscalculia can be successful in math.
Hardware
Talking Calculators
A talking calculator has a built-in voice synthesizer that reads back to the user any typed number, function, or symbol. This allows the student to verify that he has pressed the correct keys and hear the answer to the calculation aloud. This technology is particularly helpful to auditory learners. Simple function talking calculators are inexpensive and range from $10-30 dollars, while scientific or graphing versions may be anywhere from $50-300. You can view several different models on MaxiAids.com.
A talking calculator has a built-in voice synthesizer that reads back to the user any typed number, function, or symbol. This allows the student to verify that he has pressed the correct keys and hear the answer to the calculation aloud. This technology is particularly helpful to auditory learners. Simple function talking calculators are inexpensive and range from $10-30 dollars, while scientific or graphing versions may be anywhere from $50-300. You can view several different models on MaxiAids.com.
Large Key Calculators
Calculators with enhanced key size may be beneficial for students with visual impairments. This Dino Junior Big Number calculator is available for $11.95.
Manipulatives
Spreadsheets, flashcards, flipcharts, tangrams, counters, and other manipulatives are hands-on and stimulating for students. Fractions sets like the one available at Onion Mountain Technology are inexpensive and facilitate student-centered learning.
SoftWare
Virtual Manipulatives
There is an abundance of free on-line manipulatives that students can use to visualize math concepts at any level. Students can input data, simulate math functions, and use 2-D or 3-D modeling. Utah State University publishes the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives where you can find math tools and activities for all grade levels. This library contains virtual abacuses, chart-making tools, interactive fractals, puzzles, and graphs among other technologies.
There is an abundance of free on-line manipulatives that students can use to visualize math concepts at any level. Students can input data, simulate math functions, and use 2-D or 3-D modeling. Utah State University publishes the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives where you can find math tools and activities for all grade levels. This library contains virtual abacuses, chart-making tools, interactive fractals, puzzles, and graphs among other technologies.
MathTalk
MathTalk is a voice recognition software that allows students to dictate arithmetic, algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, graphing and other mathematic skills and problems. Students are able to voice homework and classwork through MathTalk's vast library of commands. The software does require Dragon NaturallySpeaking. MathTalk software is $275, but may be more expensive when paired with Dragon software. A demo of the voicing is below, and you can find more information at MathTalk.com.
MathTalk is a voice recognition software that allows students to dictate arithmetic, algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, graphing and other mathematic skills and problems. Students are able to voice homework and classwork through MathTalk's vast library of commands. The software does require Dragon NaturallySpeaking. MathTalk software is $275, but may be more expensive when paired with Dragon software. A demo of the voicing is below, and you can find more information at MathTalk.com.
Mcclellan, N. (2012). Mathtalk example voicing algebra[Web]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Y4nydxCVyw