Learning Disabilities and Assistive Technologies Guide: Chapter 5.1 - Math Strategies

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Math Strategies

The technology for remediating and accommodating persons with math disabilities has not developed as readily as the technology for reading and writing. However, the technology which is available now can provide beneficial assistance for some problems.

The limited technology can be of help, especially to those who have problems writing numbers down in the correct order. The most common currently available tools include the following:

  • hand-held calculators that can help a learner who has problems writing numbers in the correct order;
  • talking calculators that vocalize data and resulting calculations through speech synthesis;
  • special-feature calculators that enable the user to select options to speak and simultaneously display numbers, functions, entire equations and results;
  • on screen computer calculator programs with speech synthesis;
  • large display screens for calculators and adding machines;
  • color coding for maintaining columns;
  • big number buttons and large keypads;
  • textbooks on CD-ROM;
  • video-taped math lessons.

Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) math courses (instruction targeted to special students) are being developed. These are particularly helpful to the user with learning disabilities if the learning is reinforced with voice output.