Mathematics
ABLE Tech Videos on Mathematics
Check out these videos highlighting Math devices that are available to loan from ABLE Tech!
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Math Assistive Technology – the Who, What, Why, How, and Where
Who needs AT to help with math? A number of learning and attention issues can cause trouble with math, but AT can be a huge help for students. Dyscalculia is one of the most common issues. As of right now, very few special education students actually advance into upper level mathematics. Because of this, many students who struggle with mathematics become divided from their peers, and thus experience great difficulty in their future education.
What types of Assistive Technology (AT) tools are there for math support? Certain AT tools for math are common such as calculators and graph paper. There are lots of other AT tools that can be used for math such as “low-tech” graph paper and rulers. Other AT supports include common adaptive tools such as manipulatives like blocks and number lines. Manipulatives are real or virtual objects that let kids solve math problems in alternative ways. More math AT includes math notation tools, digital graphing tools, drawing tools, equation-solving tools, graphic organizers, text-to-speech, and dictation.
Why? Building mathematical skill has lifelong implications for students but can be easily overlooked. Basic life tasks such as paying bills, balancing a checkbook, creating budgets, arriving at work on time, and measuring are independent living skills that we all use. The ability to understand and think critically about numbers is vital for students to operate successfully in the real world.
How? Teaching mathematics then can no longer focus just on teaching procedures and providing students with the bare minimum knowledge of facts and equations. Students need to know why they are doing what they are doing. They need to understand the process of math, rather than simply know how to use it. The bigger picture is how to assist students in gaining an understanding of the language of numbers and apply what they know to the problems they are encountering.
Where to access AT for math? You can find traditional “low-tech” classroom items such as large number papers, symbols, and graph paper with large graph squares at school supply stores. The student’s teacher may also have these items at the school. Schools will typically have adaptive tools to use for math issues such as manipulatives which are blocks and/or number lines. Many math AT tools are being used on computer platforms such as desktop and laptop computers with built-in AT options like text-to- speech; mobile devices like tablets and smartphones with built in AT; and Chromebooks and Chrome browser with math extensions downloaded.
Information on this page addresses Assistive Technology for people with mathematics disabilities in…
EDUCATION | EMPLOYMENT | COMMUNITY LIVING
(click the titles above to jump to the content area)
For more information, please contact Kimberly Berry, Teacher of the Visually Impaired,
at kimberly.berry@okstate.edu or 405-744-8342.
EDUCATION
Talking Points for Math Assistive Technology in Education
There are many reasons why students can have trouble with math. Math difficulty often involves trouble with counting and memorizing facts. Dyscalculia is a learning issue that is a common source of math trouble, but other issues can have similar symptoms or co-occur with it. There are many ways to help kids get better at working with numbers, and assistive technology can be a huge help for students with math issues like dyscalculia. Certain AT tools for math are common, like calculators and graph paper. But there are lots of other AT tools that can be used for math. It’s important to also understand how the individual student struggles with math. Understood.org has a helpful chart describing various math support needs.
For children transitioning into the public school at age 3 – To ensure successful AT transitions for children turning 3 years old, it is important for any AT the child is currently using or may need to use in school, whether written into the child’s Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) or not, be incorporated into the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). You’ll find this information in the Community section below.
For students transitioning into the community or employment settings upon high school graduation – To ensure successful AT transitions for students aging out of school services, it is important for any AT the student is currently using or may need to pursue employment outcomes, whether written into the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or not, be incorporated into the student’s Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). IPEs are developed through collaboration with the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) using a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor. You’ll find this information in the Employment section below.
Situations Where a Child Might Need Assistive Technology for Math:
School Environment
- K-12 math class
- Science class
Socialization
- Money for activities with friends
Family / Home Environment
- Homework
- Studying for tests
Community
- Restaurant orders, payment, and knowing correct change
- Shopping in general
- Money for events
Commonly Asked Questions for a Student Who Struggles with Math
Please listen to this section and/or download a transcript here: TXT format
Solutions for Students Who Need Math Support
(click the + sign for more information)
Low Tech / No Tech Solutions
Expand
- Graph paper and rulers.
- Manipulatives help students solve math problems in alternative ways and can be physical objects or virtual objects on computers: math or number lines allow the student a physical counting system to add or subtract numbers without having to write down any numbers or symbols.
- Abacus: calculate by moving beads.
- Blocks, coins, or tangrams are tangible and allow students to interact with mathematical problems in a physical and visual manner.
- Graph paper grids make it easier to line up numbers and symbols in math problems. Students with math issues may prefer graph paper with large squares. Some may prefer to use digital graph paper.
- Calculators are used for simple math problems like addition and subtraction to more complex equations. Calculators with large buttons, numbers, and symbols may be preferred.
- Coinulators help students learn how to add and subtract money.
- Talking measuring tapes, scales,and thermometers help students who have trouble reading numbers by telling them the exact amount or number present.
- A watchminder verbally states the time and some timers can allow students to visually see the passage of time as they work on a task.
- Create math charts for students to reference that contain conversions, equations and other useful information that are located on a single piece of paper.
AT Available for Mathematics • Mid- to High-Tech (to borrow from ABLE Tech or to purchase)
Expand
Assistive technology for mathematics is listed below. Most links go to ABLE Tech’s Device Loan Inventory where you can borrow AT for a 6-week trial. Other links go directly to the manufacturer’s or developer’s website where you can further research, or purchase, the AT:
| AT Available for Math Support (to borrow or purchase) |
|---|
| Abacus – Student 100 MathLine |
| Calculator – Talking Scientific (Sci-Plus 300) |
| Coin-U-Lator |
| Big Calculator app |
| AT Available for Math Support (to borrow or purchase) |
|---|
| Coin Math app |
| Slide-A-Round Math Manipulatives |
| Imagine Learning - Math Programs |
| Math Village |
Case studies of Students with Math Needs and Possible Recommendations
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Case Study #1:
Student is in 3rd grade and struggles with math.
The signs of a math issue can vary depending on what’s causing it and how old your child is. If dyscalculia is to blame, the symptoms may change over time as students use math in different ways. Some examples of math troubles for a third or fourth grader include:
- Not understanding the concept of “more than” or “less than”
- Struggles to learn and remember basic math facts, such as 5 + 5 = 10
- Doesn’t make the connection between related math facts or “fact families,” such as 5 + 5 = 10, so 10 ‒ 5 = 5
- Has trouble recognizing written numbers
- Still uses fingers to count instead of doing the calculation in her head
- Struggles to line numerals up neatly in columns when solving math problems
- Doesn’t know left from right
- Avoids games that involve strategy like checkers or Sudoku
- Has a hard time telling time and money concepts
A third grader struggling with money and rounding concepts was able to understand the concepts better once she began using a “Slide-A-Round Math Manipulative” to work on rounding numbers and a “Coin-U-Lator” to learn about the value of money and to add and subtract.
Goals and Outcomes:
The goal is for the student to use the Coinulator at the math and money station during class time and will use the Coin Math app at home and in the car. The money unit will end in a few weeks, so the goal is to progress in understanding money units as well as the concept of rounding up and down on a number line.
See the attached SETT Framework for feature matching solutions based on the Student, Environment, Task and Tools.
Case Study Forms – SETT Framework
Case Study #1 (Elementary) | PDF | Word
Sample solutions available in the ABLE Tech Short-Term Loan Inventory:
| Link to Slide-A-Round Math Manipulative in ABLE Tech Loan Inventory | Link to Coin-U-Lator and Worksheets in ABLE Tech Loan Inventory |
|---|---|
 |  |
Case Study #2:
Student is in 8th grade struggling with basic math concepts.
A student in 8th grade was struggling with math concepts in general so the teacher met with him about working with physical and virtual manipulatives. Manipulatives can be helpful for illustrating abstract math concepts. Physical objects help students visualize relationships and applications.
The teacher had the student borrow a MathLine which is a simple rod with rings and a printed number line with which students can learn math concepts by touching and moving the rings, grouping numbers, and can see the visual number on the rod. The Mathline is a little like an abacus, but it is better in that students can see the numbers and an abacus has no numbers visible. Students can comprehend the mathline because it has direct correspondence between the object and number so students can model core math concepts such as early math (counting and skip counting), place value, and rounding. The mathline can teach more advanced math concepts such as long division and pre-algebra. Mathline shows student math with their eyes and can teach the concepts of math.
The student also worked with virtual manipulatives found at The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives which provides interactive, web-based virtual manipulatives or tutorials for K-12 math instruction. There is a need for good computer-based mathematical manipulatives and interactive learning tools at elementary and middle school levels.
Goals and Outcomes: The teacher and student’s goals were to identify physical and virtual manipulatives to reinforce basic math functions as well as to pair manipulatives with most concepts taught in the 8th grade class. The student used many of the online math manipulatives at home prior to doing his math homework.
See the attached SETT Framework for feature matching solutions based on the Student, Environment, Task and Tools.
Case Study Forms – SETT Framework
Case Study #2 (Junior High) | PDF | Word
Sample solutions available in the ABLE Tech Short-Term Loan Inventory:
| Links to YouTube video using Math Line, available at HowBrite online | Link to iMathematics app in ABLE Tech Loan Inventory | Link to TI Orion Calculator in ABLE Tech Loan Inventory |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
Case Study #3:
Student is in high school and struggles with writing math equations
A high school student began having more difficulty writing legibly as her disability progressed. Writing out math problems had become tiring. The student had practiced recently using her voice to complete digital assignments in Google Classroom (using Chrome extensions). The student read about MathTalk, a voice recognition program that works with Dragon Naturally Speaking.
Goals and Outcomes: The student’s goal was to independently write her math problems and functions without the help of an aid or a parent. With MathTalk she can voice algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, and graphing. Her assignments are recorded digitally and can be printed, emailed, and uploaded to Google Drive, or DropBox. Using her voice to type and write has increased her ability to stay focused throughout the day instead of worrying about legibility and fatigue. She is able to continue as an independent student and can work on homework independently at home without the help of an aid or a parent.
See the attached SETT Framework for feature matching solutions based on the Student, Environment, Task and Tools.
Case Study Forms – SETT Framework
Case Study #3 (High school student transitioning to higher education) | PDF | Word
Sample solutions available in the ABLE Tech Short-Term Loan Inventory:
| Link to Writing Bird in ABLE Tech Loan Inventory | Link to MathTalk | Link to TI Orion Calculator in ABLE Tech Loan Inventory |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
ABLE Tech loans devices at no cost for up to six weeks.
Request a device loan here (Mathematics category)
| Video/Webinar/Podcast Resources |
|---|
| Video: Free to Low-Cost Assistive Technology Solutions |
| Video: AT Technical Assistance document |
| Webinar: Learning, Cognition, and Development |
Funding Sources for Students with Mathematics Impairment
The following resources are from ABLE Tech’s listing of OK Funding for AT and specifically give guidance on providing assistive technology for mathematics devices to those with disabilities in Oklahoma:
Public & Private Sources of Funding
Expand
| PUBLIC SOURCES | Ages Served |
|---|---|
| Family Support Assistance Program (money can be used for any purpose) | Ages 0 - 18 |
| Oklahoma Reutilization Program | All Ages |
| SoonerStart - Early Intervention Program | Ages 0 - 3 |
| Special Education Services Division - Local Education Agency (LEA) | Ages 3 - 21 |
| Vocational Rehabilitation Program – Visual Services (VS) | Students in transition through working age |
| Vocational Rehabilitation Program – Vocational Services (VR) | Students in transition through working age |
| PRIVATE SOURCES | Ages Served |
|---|---|
| Ability Connection Oklahoma | All Ages |
| ABLE Tech Financial Loan Program | All Ages |
| Donna Nigh Foundation | All Ages |
| WovenLife (formerly Easter Seals of Oklahoma) | All Ages |
| Limeades for Learning | For Public School Educators |
| Oklahoma Educational Technology Trust | For School Districts |
EMPLOYMENT
Talking Points for Math Assistive Technology in Employment
The category of Employment encompasses those people of working-age who are currently employed or who are seeking employment. The following talking points may be applicable to individuals with disabilities as well as employers.
Individuals who need support for math may have dyscalculia. Described as the mathematical equivalent of dyslexia, dyscalculia is a little-known disorder that makes it extremely difficult to learn math. While dyslexics struggle with reading and interpreting words and letters, dyscalculics have a hard time with basic arithmetic and understanding the meaning and concepts of numbers.
A person with dyscalculia has average to above average intelligence, but has difficulty with numbers or remembering facts over a long period of time. Some persons have spatial problems and difficulty aligning numbers into proper columns. Some persons may reverse numbers, and have difficulty in mathematical operations.
In 2015, 29% of 15-year-olds in the United States of America, scored deficient (in the lowest 10%) on international tests of mathematical literacy- that’s 3 in every 10 students below proficiency level 2- worse than half (35) of the 69 countries tested. Only 6%, scored above 90% proficiency (level 5), worse than 36 countries. Source: NCES, 2016, p.23.
For students transitioning into the community or employment settings upon high school graduation – To ensure successful AT transitions for students aging out of school services, it is important for any AT the student is currently using to be incorporated into the student’s Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). IPEs are developed through collaboration with the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) using a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor.
Situations Where an Individual Might Need Assistive Technology for Mathematics
Work Environment
- Interview process
- Meetings
- Trainings
- Daily tasks
Socialization
- Dining out, paying check and tip
Family / Home Environment
- Life skills
- Writing a budget
Community
- Bank
- Library
Commonly Asked Questions for an Individual Who Has Mathematics Needs
Q – What types of learning disabilities are there?
A – Learning disabilities can be divided into three broad categories: developmental speech and language disorders, academic skills disorders, and other (such as coordination disorders). Learning disabilities are disorders that affect the ability to understand or use spoken or written language, do mathematical calculations, coordinate movements, or direct attention. Learning disabilities are a lifelong condition; they are not outgrown or cured, though many people develop coping techniques through special education, tutoring, medication, therapy, personal development, or adaptation of learning skills. Approximately 15 million children, adolescents, and adults have learning disabilities in the United States.
Q – What types of AT can I ask for?
A – Assistive technology that is needed to do the essential functions of the job can be requested.
Q – I am a qualified person with a disability under the ADA and need AT to do my job. May I ask my employer to provide it?
A – Individuals with disabilities may ask for an accommodation at any time even for an interview.
Q – What is a “Specific Learning Disability”?
A – A disorder in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, which may manifest itself in an imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, write, spell or to do mathematical calculations. Included in this category are expressive writing disorders and other expressive language disorders.
Solutions for Employees Who Need Math Support
(click the + sign for more information)
Low Tech / No Tech Solutions for Math
Expand
Rulers, basic calculators and graph paper- Calculators with large numbers and symbols and
- Use graph paper with large graph squares to keep numbers properly aligned while doing multi-digit multiplication or long division.
- Say aloud each number as you write or type it to ensure that it is correct.
- Do calculations twice
- Allow plenty of room to write the calculations and the answer.
- Use a talking calculator
- Use manipulatives such as base 10 blocks, beads and Numicon
AT Available for Math (to borrow from ABLE Tech or to purchase)
Expand
Assistive technology for mathematics is listed below. Some links go to ABLE Tech’s Device Loan Inventory where you can borrow AT for a 6-week trial. Other links go directly to the manufacturer’s or developer’s website where you can further research, or purchase, the AT:
- Mobile devices (like tablets and smartphones): Mobile devices also have built-in AT. And you can add math tools to mobile devices with apps.
- Chromebooks (and Chrome browsers on any device): Add Chrome apps and extensions to find specific tools to help with math.
- Mathematical software usually takes the form of a program that is uploaded or downloaded to a computer which enables the user to complete mathematical problems of varying degrees of difficulty. Examples can be as simple as the Calculator program that is present on most Windows based computers or as complex as SPSS or SAS (statistical programs).
- Graphing tools are typically digital tools that help individuals graph the path created by an equation; also used with calculus and solving graphing problems.
- Graphic organizers help break down and lay out the steps for solving math problems. For instance, a graphic organizer for a word problem may have spaces to write and keep track of important numbers. Graphic organizers can be digital or pen and paper.
- Text-to-speech (TTS) will read aloud numbers and calculations when solving math problems. When used for math, TTS is often combined with other tools, like a talking calculator.
- Dictation such as MathTalk software, allows the individual to write out math problems by speaking.
Case Studies of of Individuals with Math Support Needs in Employment
Expand
Case Study #1:
New employee with a learning disability
A new employee, with a learning disability (LD), was hired to be a staff assistant at a manufacturing plant. He was doing well at most functions of the job, but had difficulty when the projects involved calculations and figuring a budget for office supplies. He had difficulty recognizing or identifying numbers and performing mathematical calculations accurately and efficiently in his head or on paper. When copying or calculating figures, he would tend to reverse or confuse number sequences.
The employee discussed his LD with his supervisor and how it impacted his ability to perform certain functions on the job. They discussed that the mathematical calculations he would need to perform would be limited to adding and subtracting within Excel software.
Possible Recommendations:
The supervisor decided to send the employee to a series of Excel classes so that he could learn to use to solve math problems. She suggested he use a calculator at his desk and in meetings. She would assist with calculations during meetings if the staff assistant became flustered. A talking calculator may be a helpful device with an earbud attached. This auditory feedback may help an individual with visual perception limitations check the accuracy of the keys as they are pressed and verify the answer before he transfers it to paper. He should practice estimating costs of items each day. Exact answers can always be found later with a calculator. Another idea is to use adapted math paper such as enlarged documents to provide more room to write and figure calculations, graph paper to aid with legible math notations, guideline paper with bold lines
See the attached HAAT Model form to see how to match the employee to needed AT.
Case Study Forms – HATT Model
Case Study #1 (New Employee with a learning disability) | PDF | Word
Sample solutions available in the ABLE Tech Short-Term Loan Inventory:
| Talking calculator | Free downloadable graph papers | Math App - iMathematics: Learn Math |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
Case Study #2:
An employee with dyscalculia (defined as having difficulty learning or comprehending arithmetic, understanding or manipulating numbers)
A building contractor with dyscalculia was inefficient when creating job quotes. To ensure the mathematical calculations were accurate, the employee spent extra time “figuring” and “double-checking” the numbers.
Possible Recommendations:
The site supervisor purchased the Jobber 6 Construction Calculator contractor’s to help the employee “figure” fractions, triangles, circles, area (and more) efficiently and accurately. https://jobberinstruments.com. The Chrome browser or Chrome book can be used to find math extensions. Use jigs or pre-measurement guides. Some work requires the use of machinery or equipment. In these cases, request that tools like jigs be used to help guide your work or help you measure more accurately.
See the attached HAAT Model form to see how to match the employee to needed AT.
Case Study Forms – HATT Model
Case Study #2 (An employee with dyscalculia) | PDF | Word
Sample solutions available in the ABLE Tech Short-Term Loan Inventory:
| Jobber 6 Construction Calculator | Talking Calculator | Provide talking tools such as tape measures, scales, watches |
|---|---|---|
 | |  |
Case Study #3:
An employee with paralysis
An engineer at a large company became paralyzed after an accident. Having limited use of her arms and hands, she began using Dragon Naturally Speaking voice recognition software. However, she was concerned about her ability to continue with mathematical functions.
Possible Recommendations:
Her vocational rehabilitation counselor called the state’s assistive technology program who told her about “MathTalk”, a product that combines with Dragon Naturally Speaking but allows the individual to speak and solve mathematical calculations. She could do math without a keyboard or mouse and could use her voice for algebra, trig, calculus, statistics, and up.
See the attached HAAT Model form to see how to match the employee to needed AT.
Case Study Forms – HATT Model
Case Study #3 (An employee with paralysis) | PDF | Word
Sample solutions available in the ABLE Tech Short-Term Loan Inventory:
| MathTalk | Dragon Naturally Speaking | Laptop |
|---|---|---|
|  |  |
ABLE Tech loans devices at no cost for up to six weeks.
Request a device loan here (Math Category)
Funding Sources for Adults with Mathematics Impairments
The following resources are from ABLE Tech’s listing of OK Funding for AT and specifically give guidance on providing assistive technology for mathematics devices to those with disabilities in Oklahoma:
Public & Private Sources of Funding
Expand
| PUBLIC SOURCES | Ages Served |
|---|---|
| Oklahoma Reutilization Program | All Ages |
| Special Education Services Division - Local Education Agency (LEA) | Ages 3 - 21 |
| Supplemental Security Income Work Incentives (money can be used for any purpose) | Working Ages |
| Vocational Rehabilitation Program – Visual Services (VS) | Students in transition through working age |
| Vocational Rehabilitation Program – Vocational Services (VR) | Students in transition through working age |
| PRIVATE SOURCES | Ages Served |
|---|---|
| Ability Connection Oklahoma | All Ages |
| ABLE Tech Financial Loan Program | All Ages |
| Donna Nigh Foundation | All Ages |
| WovenLife (formerly Easter Seals of Oklahoma) | All Ages |
COMMUNITY LIVING
Talking Points for Assistive Technology for Mathematics in Community Living
The category of Community Living encompasses infants and toddlers who are under the age of 3 and not yet in school, those people who were born with or have acquired an injury and are otherwise participating in community activities (not as students or employees) as well as those who are aging in the home. The following talking points are applicable to individuals with disabilities as well as family members and others providing support and care to these individuals with disabilities.
Sometimes an individual will make it to adulthood and have the necessary assistive technology to participate in the community and at home. When that is the case, these pages will show other considerations regarding accessibility and accommodations. When the person requires additional tools to participate, the Human Activity Assistive Technology (HAAT) model will be used to show how an individual might best match up with a piece of AT to be used in the community and at home
For those children transitioning into the public school at age 3 – To ensure successful AT transitions for children turning 3 years old, it is important for any AT the child is currently using or may need to use in school, whether written into the child’s Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) or not, be incorporated into the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Link to Education section
Situations where an individual might need assistive technology for Mathematics
Socialization
- Any activity where money is exchanged
- Restaurants
Community
- Doctor’s office visits
- Hospital
- Shopping
- Transportation
- Volunteer activities
- Entertainment
- Sports
- Library
- Friends’ houses
- Post office and library
- Church
- Utilities
Family/Home Environment
- Preparing meals
- Paying bills
- Games
- Computer tasks/games
Commonly Asked Questions for a Person Who Has Mathematics Loss – Impairment – Needs
Q – What types of learning disabilities are there?
A – Learning disabilities (LD) sometimes referred to as “specific learning disorders,” are life-long, but adults who have LD can experience great success in all aspects of life when using their strengths together with the strategies, accommodations and technology that are most appropriate and effective for their individual needs.
Q – What is Assistive Technology?
A – AT is anything that helps a person do a task easier, better, or more efficiently, that otherwise would be difficult or impossible to do.
Q – What is a “Specific Learning Disability”?
A – A disorder in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, which may manifest itself in an imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, write, spell or to do mathematical calculations. Included in this category are expressive writing disorders and other expressive language disorders.
Learning disabilities can be divided into three broad categories: developmental speech and language disorders, academic skills disorders, and other (such as coordination disorders). Learning disabilities are disorders that affect the ability to understand or use spoken or written language, do mathematical calculations, coordinate movements, or direct attention. Learning disabilities are a lifelong condition; they are not outgrown or cured, though many people develop coping techniques through special education, tutoring, medication, therapy, personal development, or adaptation of learning skills. Approximately 15 million children, adolescents, and adults have learning disabilities in the United States.
Solutions for Individuals with Mathematics Loss – Impairment – Needs
(click the + sign for more information)
Low Tech / No Tech Solutions for Mathematics
Expand
Rulers, basic calculators and graph paper- Calculators with large numbers and symbols and
- Use graph paper with large graph squares to keep numbers properly aligned while doing multi-digit multiplication or long division.
- Say aloud each number as you write or type it to ensure that it is correct.
- Do calculations twice
- Allow plenty of room to write the calculations and the answer.
- Use a talking calculator
- Use manipulatives such as base 10 blocks, beads and Numicon
AT Available for Mathematics (to borrow from ABLE Tech or to purchase)
Expand
Assistive technology for mathematics is listed below. Most links go to ABLE Tech’s Device Loan Inventory where you can borrow AT for a 6-week trial. Other links go directly to the manufacturer’s or developer’s website where you can further research, or purchase, the AT:
| AT Available for Mathematics (to borrow or purchase) |
|---|
| Dyscalculia.org Mobile devices also have built-in AT, but additional math apps can be added. iPad or iPod in our inventory Chromebooks and Chrome browser extensions to help with math. MathTalk Scientific Notebook Graphing tools are typically digital tools that help individuals graph the path created by an equation; also used with calculus and solving graphing problems. Text-to-speech (TTS) will read aloud numbers and calculations when solving math problems. When used for math, TTS is often combined with other tools, like a talking calculator. Construction Calculators Counting/Measuring Aids Fractional, Decimal, Statistical, or Scientific Calculators |
| AT Available for Mathematics (to borrow or purchase) |
|---|
| Large Display Calculators or Adding Machines Talking Calculators Large Display Thermometer (external site) Talking Scales Talking Tape Measures Talking Watches MacBook Air VoiceOver in Mac Text to Speech (TTS) can help improve comprehension by hearing it spoken. Windows: Narrator text to speech Math Apps |
Case Studies of Individuals with Mathematics Needs in Community Living
Expand
Case Study #1:
Before they start school, most children develop an understanding of addition and subtraction through everyday interactions.
As Bob plays with his two-year-old daughter, he notices that she is beginning to understand the concept of addition and subtraction in simple ways. Every morning he sits with her and lines up 4 cheerios on her tray. He counts each aloud and then eats one or two. After several days, she begins trying to say the numbers and even pops two in her mouth and uses her hand to push the other two to her dad.
Bob also plays with her using the shape sorter and stacking blocks. These are all math-building activities to prepare her for preschool, and for children with developmental delays, these everyday activities can make a big difference in the school readiness.
Link to information about how to help you child develop early math skills.
Sample solutions available in the ABLE Tech Short-Term Loan Inventory:
| Link to Trace 'N Glow Shapes App in iTunes | Link to Pre-K Abacus in ABLE Tech Loan Inventory |
|---|---|
 |  |
Case Study #2:
Chris returned home from serving 5 years in the military.
While in another country, he sustained injuries by two IED bombs, which left him with traumatic brain injuries. While a TBI may result in cognitive, emotional, sensory, and motor impairments, this case study will address assistive technology solutions for cognitive disabilities that include short and long-term memory loss, sleep disorders, difficulty concentrating and processing information, inability to complete more than one task at a time, or organizational difficulties.
Chris has difficulty monitoring his bank account, paying bills, and remembering events and other important activities. Though he may have ongoing issues in the future, he is otherwise functioning well with his wife and children. He hopes to find a job soon but acknowledges that he needs to find support and AT to help him live, function, and work independently.
See the attached HAAT Model form to see how to match this person with needed AT.
Case Study Forms – HATT Model
Case Study #2 (Recently Disabled Adult) | PDF | Word
Sample solutions available in the ABLE Tech Short-Term Loan Inventory:
| Link to Noteability App in iTunes | Link to Talking Calculator in ABLE Tech Loan Inventory | Link to Livescribe ECHO Smart Pen on Livescribe website |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
Case Study #3:
A retiree is living alone and must pay all of her bills independently.
She has had a learning disability all of her life and has always had trouble with math. While she is not very proficient with technology, she has learned to work with specific AT to assist her. In order to assist her with her bills, she could use a talking calculator and/or a jumbo calculator. This would help her not only see it better but also easier to understand. With her new computer she could software like MathTalk so that she can dictate her budgetary needs. She could use a software program or app that would allow her to enter her exact budget information. The program will do all the math problems.
Sample solutions available in the ABLE Tech Short-Term Loan Inventory:
| Link to MathTalk Scientific Notebook | Link to Budget Calculator Online | Link to Talking Calculator in ABLE Tech Loan Inventory |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
ABLE Tech loans devices at no cost for up to six weeks.
Request a device loan here (Mathematics)
| Video Resources |
|---|
| Free to Low-Cost Assistive Technology Solutions |
| Brainline TBI Video |
| What Dyscalculia Means |
Funding Sources for Persons with Mathematics Needs
The following resources are from ABLE Tech’s listing of OK Funding for AT and specifically give guidance on providing assistive technology for mathematics devices to those with disabilities in Oklahoma:
Public & Private Sources of Funding
Expand
| PUBLIC SOURCES | Ages Served |
|---|---|
| Family Support Assistance Program (money can be used for any purpose) | Ages 0 - 18 |
| Oklahoma Reutilization Program | All Ages |
| SoonerStart - Early Intervention Program | Ages 0 - 3 |
| Supplemental Security Income Work Incentives (money can be used for any purpose) | All Ages |
| PRIVATE SOURCES | Ages Served |
|---|---|
| Ability Connection Oklahoma | All Ages |
| ABLE Tech Financial Loan Program | All Ages |
| Donna Nigh Foundation | All Ages |
| WovenLife (formerly Easter Seals of Oklahoma) | All Ages |