This article on EdWeek reiterates that more research must be done with electronic devices before they can be advocated for helping students with learning disabilities in schools. Testing has just begun on the Intel Reader, Barnes and Noble’s Nook, Amazon’s Kindle, and Apple’s iPad.
Today’s children have grown up with technology and are comfortable with it. However, not having a tangible book may make it more difficult to skim pages and headings while trying to organize thoughts.
According to the article there are six benefits to electronic readers:
- The Intel Reader can take pictures of any text and convert it into audio file, which saves time for teachers. The audio can then be played at adjusted speeds for the reader.
- The font size and number of words per line can be changed to the reader’s preference.
- Individual words can be pronounced out loud for the reader.
- Definitions, chunking, and pronunciation are available with the built-in dictionary.
- Readers can make notes which teachers can read and gain insight into how students think.
- Electronic readers don’t have a negative stigma, so students shouldn’t be ashamed to use them