On this forum, in september there was a disscussion on scanners, data pens,
OCR software, etc.
I can only comment on my experience of scanners. I use a Logitech scanman color
scanner with the OCR sofeware supplied with it. Its a time saver. I am able
to scan in text from may sources, if I had to type it, (I am not a touch
typist) I would make may mistakes and loss my place in the text many times.
I have found it useful on assignments of a question and answer nature, a
space being left for a hand writen answer. My hand writing is OK, but my
composition and spelling is useless. The facilities of cut and paste, drag
and drop, spell checkers and text reading software available on a computer
makes assignments easier to handle.
I also have problems with comprehension, using the scanner to scan text into
the computer and then using a text reader, my comprehension is quicker.
A flat bed scanner works on a much higher resolution, but is more expensive.
They are also very large, if your working area is limited, as mine is, a
flat bed scanner is not a suitable solution. Unless in a public area, for
the use of all disabled students.
Dyslexia does not have a single set of common difficulties, so what works
for myself, will not necessarily work for all dyslexics. Scanners are an
expensive piece of equipment, even hand help ones.
Last semester, one of my tutors put all assignments and course notes onto
the internet. This allowed me to download and read course notes before the
lecture. It was invaluable to me. This approach has very little cost, if any.
Barbara Corcoran
Comupter Co-ordinator HDA
http://web.ukonline.co.uk/Members/dyslexia.hamp/
At 09:08 31/10/96 GMT, you wrote:
>Thanks for the info. I would be interested in your comments on
>hand held scanners and which are the best suited to student use. We
>have been investigating flat bed scanners, however your
>suggestion definitelysounds a more cost effective option.
>
>
>Gillina Malins
>Acting Student Adviser (Diabilities)
>University of Luton
>
>
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