Why Make Application Software More Accessible?

TEACHING STUDENTS WITH SPEECH IMPAIRMENTS

Patience is the most effective strategy in teaching students with speech
impairments.

Speech impairments range from problems with articulation or voice strength
to complete loss of voice. They include difficulties in projection, as in
chronic hoarseness and esophageal speech; fluency problems, as in
stuttering; and nominal aphasia that alters the articulation of particular
words or terms

Some of these difficulties can be managed by such mechanical devices as
electronic "speaking" machines or computerized voice synthesizers. Others
may be treated through speech therapy. Speech impairments can be aggravated
by the anxiety inherent in oral communications.

Teaching Strategies

Give students the opportunity, but do not compel them to speak in class.

Permit students the time they require to express themselves, without
unsolicited aid in filling in gaps in their speech. Don't be reluctant to
ask the student to find a word or to complete an expression. Maintain
comfortable eye contact and posture with the student.

Address students naturally and in your regular speaking voice. Do not assume
that they cannot hear or comprehend.

Consider course modifications, such as one to-one presentations and the use
of a computer with a voice synthesizer.