This is the fourth post in our “Expansion Pilot Update” series, which shares stories from five Easterseals affiliates who are taking monthly virtual classes on using our App Search Tool. Our contributors for today’s article are Sarah Parker and Lauren Compton of Easterseals Massachusetts. Sarah is the Assistive Technology Regional Centers Program Manager; Lauren is an AT Specialist.
Q: What BridgingApps digital-training session(s) have you found most helpful so far?
Lauren: The May training, on Digital Skills. Among the apps shared, Morphic has been extremely helpful. The many steps involved in changing the accessibility settings on one’s device can be overwhelming to our clients: Morphic makes everything easily accessible. The “Read Selected” function has also been really helpful, because it is a very straightforward way to have sections of text read aloud: it doesn’t involve opening additional programs, which can cause confusion and overwhelm.
Knowt is another useful app: a client recently shared how it has helped in her vocation. Taking notes in real time has long been a challenge for her. Now she records important conversations and can go back to reference the information in an easier-to-understand way. And she’s able to better engage in training sessions, or converse with her coworkers.
Overall, the Digital Skills tips shared in the BridgingApps Training have helped to decrease the cognitive barriers some of our clients face in learning to use a computer.
Q: How else are you using what you’ve learned to help your clients?
Sarah: In the Assistive Technology Regional Center, people often come in to borrow iPads to try out, either for themselves or for clients they are working with. Since learning about the App Search list on the BridgingApps website, I have started to ask our visitors more questions about the categories of apps they are looking for, or how they plan to use the iPads. This way, I can use the BridgingApps site to download specific apps that could be helpful.
An AT Specialist recently asked to borrow an iPad for a client who enjoys drawing and painting. I searched the BridgingApps database for “art” apps and discovered Infinite Painter, which received 4 stars in its review and was described as “a great tool for artists of all levels and ages.” I downloaded this free app and sent it off on the iPad, along with some other art apps and a stylus for the client to try out.
Q: Any other apps you’d like highlighted?
A: Smart Steps, for teaching independent-living skills to young adults.
Further information on apps mentioned above:
- Infinite Painter can be used for therapeutic drawing or for pure fun, to create digital art in every style from doodling to spray painting to calligraphy.
- Knowt is a study app that converts notes into digital flashcards. It includes a learning-resources library where users can contribute material.
- Morphic can create an “all-in-one accessibility shortcut” on any computer, eliminating frustrating searches for accessibility settings. The moveable toolbar keeps everything in easy view.
- Smart Steps uses a decision-tree system to help users learn to manage everyday problems. Each scenario includes a “success” screen (to congratulate users for working out a solution) and a “call for help” screen (for quick caregiver contact should a problem show signs of becoming unmanageable).
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