Examples of Thinking and Organizing Devices

Assistive Technology Devices used to support thinking and organizing are commonly used in educational environments without being thought of as Assistive Technologies.  When these devices are used by an individual with a disability in order to provide an increased level of access to the educational content, these devices can be used as an Assistive Technology and as an accommodation under IDEA or ADA in the educational setting.  

Concept Maps and Outlines

Whether low tech pen and paper or using software such as Inspiration Links to an external site., Kidspiration Links to an external site., popplet.com Links to an external site., or bubbl.us Links to an external site., concept maps can provide structure to thought and help individuals organize ideas into a context that helps provide understanding.  Many concept map tools also provide the ability to create outlines from the concept map, providing a place to start when writing a document in paragraph form.

Planners, Reminders, and Notes

Many people use planners and reminders to keep track of their time.  These powerful tools can remind an individual of their school schedule, needs to take medications, and many other important events that may otherwise be forgotten.  Many high tech applications that utilize these functions are combined with tools for taking notes.  Reminders can then be set via the notes, or vice versa.