Portable word processors are small, lightweight, and easy for student use. They are able to work with it in school as well as home. Portable word processors can be used by students who have difficulty writing, poor motor skills, and also by students who have ADHD. The purpose of this device is to help the student become independent and not have to rely on someone else.
Some common types of portable word processors in schools are...
- Neo
- Fusion
- QuickPad
- Alphasmart
Check out this video review on the Alphasmart. Alphasmart word processors were something that I saw used in my student teaching placement. It was not used as an assistive technology for someone with a disability, rather it was used in the classroom as a piece of technology. When students were finished their writing, they would use it to type and publish their work. The teacher could then upload it to the computer through the Alphasmart. However, I do think it would be additionally beneficial for those students who struggle with handwriting. Typing is a great alternative to the writing for some students.
http://www.greatschools.org/special-education/assistive-technology/961-portable-word-processors.gs
I thought word processors where a relic of the past. Of all the technology I've seen in the classroom, I have yet to see a word processor. At first I thought, what are the benefits of a word processor just by itself when every tablet, laptop, and desktop have built-in word processing programs. That was quickly answered by this very informative video when the teacher said that stand alone word processors are void of any potentially distracting applications that are found on the aforementioned technology. This was a very salient point.
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