Augmentative processing, also known as augmentative and alternative communication technology (ACCT), tools enable users to accomplish tasks with less typing and potentially in less time than with conventional tools.
This section explores various types of technology that assist users with understanding the information that they are receiving from or inputting into computers, tablets, and mobile devices. Built-in features, hardware, and software tools are explored.
Built-in Features and Operating Systems
Desktop systems
Windows built-in accessibility features include features that assist with augmentative processing.
Mac built-in accessibility features include features that assist with augmentative processing. (TO COME)
Mobile
Android built-in accessibility features include features that assist with augmentative processing. (TO COME)
iOS (iPad and iPhone) built-in accessibility features include features that assist with augmentative processing. (TO COME)
Browsers
Chrome OS built-in accessibility features include features that assist with augmentative processing. (TO COME)
Hardware
Haptic Devices
A haptic interface is a device which allows a user to interact with a computer by receiving tactile feedback. This feedback is achieved by applying a degree of opposing force to the user along the x, y, and z axes.
Software
Animated Signing Characters
Animated signing characters are a technology for displaying signed communication without the necessity of displaying a digitized video of a human signer.
Grammatical Support Tools
Grammatical support tools allow people who have difficulties with grammar to make their computing and writing tasks much easier.
Mind Mapping Software
Mind mapping software, also known as concept mapping, is used to create relationships from concepts, ideas and information.
Text-to-Speech Software
Text-to-Speech software allows you to convert written text on the computer (e.g. from word processor document, web page) read out loud.
Word Prediction Software
Word prediction technology is used to assist with text entry. Word prediction software assists with reducing the number of required keystrokes, by predicting the word you are typing and the next word based on word frequency and context.