Special Needs Software and Tools -- The Big Picture
SuperKids' review teams enccounter numerous programs and tools which have special educational applications, or meet specialized needs - not all of which might conventionally be categorized as 'special ed'. Here are a few we found interesting, useful, or just plain unusual!
Volume 1: Basic Vocabulary and Fingerspelling [for all ages] from Visulize ASL, teaches over 450 vocabulary words in American Sign Language, using a combination of video demonstration, and illustrations. Good for anyone interested in expanding their ASL vocabulary.
KidzMouse [for ages 2 and up] from KidzMouse, Inc., is a colorful, child-sized mouse, in a bug's costume -- with a twist. Users can tap or squeeze the bug's head to click on objects or links.
Take-A-Stand [for ages 12 and up] from Leo Media,, subtitled "Stop the Violence!" attempts to educate middle and high school students about conflict resolution. The program was designed through a partnership between the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of Education, the National Center for Conflict Resolution Education, and MTV.
TouchFree Switch [for ages 5 and up] from Edmark, offers physically-challenged kids a new way to interact with the computer. Combining a digital video camera with switch software, it allows students who are unable to control a mouse to use a wide variety of compatible software.
TouchWindow [for all ages] from Edmark, is an input device that can be used as a touch screen, graphic tablet or keyboard substitute. It attaches to the computer monitor, and interacts with most popular software titles..
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