Assistive Technology Tools: Listening
Certain assistive technology (AT) tools can help people who have difficulty processing and remembering spoken language. Such devices can be used in various settings (e.g., a class lecture, or a meeting with multiple speakers).
AT tools that assist with listening fall into two categories:
Personal FM Listening Systems A personal FM listening system transmits a speaker's voice directly to the user's ear. This may help the listener focus on what the speaker is saying. The unit consists of a wireless transmitter (with microphone) worn by the speaker and a receiver (with earphone) worn by the listener.
What type(s) of learning difficulty do these tools address?
This type of tool may benefit people who struggle with: listening or attention.
Products to Consider:
Tape recorders/players allow a user to listen to pre-recorded text or to capture spoken information (e.g., a classroom lecture) and play it back later. Variable speed control (VSC) tape recorders speed up or slow down the playback rate without distorting the "speaker's" voice.
What type(s) of learning difficulty do these tools address? Products to Consider: - Independent Living Aids
- MaxiAids (various recorders)
- Handi-Cassettte
The assistive technology products listed on our site have been compiled under the direction of 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 March 2007
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