NETS 4: Journal 8- Adaptive Technology

Communication
ASHA or American Speech-Language Hearing Association terms Augmentative and Alternative Communication as anything other than actual speech to assist with communication. Examples of these can be electronic devices, pictures, or even sign-language. 
For a low-tech tool to assist a student with disabilities, I choose the Speech Buddy which is a series of tongue depressor looking devices that are shaped to aid the tongue in pronunciation of difficult to pronounce letters and sounds such as; "R", "L", "S", "CH", and "SH". Each of them are appropriately named and fun for kids. For example, the "CH" sound is called the Cheetah Speech Buddy and the "L" is the Lion. According to Speech Buddies these are an easy way to help those with slight speech impediments, lisps, and inability to pronounce the aforementioned sounds.
The high-tech tool to assist a student with vocal disabilities, I chose the DynaVox Maestro. This tool is amazing in its capabilities, it is designed for those who are still learning how to read and write and master social skills. This would fit into a classroom very well, since the design of its speakers are loud enough to hear in a crowded room which is great for teachers to be able to hear over pairing discussion if need be. It is small and compact for a device of its nature and it resembles an ipad or similar device which can help ease feelings of uncomfortableness around peers. 
Accessibility
An input device is anything that can be used to enter data into the computer, many of these devices make it easier for a student with disabilities to access the computer.

This is a screenshot of what the software looks like.

The software I chose for accessibility was Mindjet this software for Macs, web, and mobile is a software that allows the student to map out content ideas. I love this tool because it can be used by all of the students and enrich everyone's digital experience. However, this tool is great for students with learning disabilities because it encompasses mapping and forces organization of content in an easy way to understand. There are other free versions out there I suppose a teacher would need to use trial and error to find the one that best fit their students. 
 
 For a hardware device I have chosen a key guard keyboard. This stops the user from pressing too many keys down at once and allows for bigger keys as well. The keys are separated by steel and are easy to clean as well. This keyboard allows people who shake, or otherwise cannot control precise hand movements to use a computer just as well if not better than the rest of the population. For a student with disabilities this would be a great tool for essay writing or college note-taking.