Apps for VI

By: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com
There are so many apps available now, that it can be very overwhelming and time-consuming to find just the right app for your student. The apps that you will find here are those that I have used myself, or have seen featured at conferences. Being frugal by nature, I like to use the free apps! Of course with the free apps, you frequently have to put up with the pop-up ads that can be very annoying not to mention distracting when working with a student! The free version is nice, however, in that it allows you to "sample' the app and determine if it is something you or your student would enjoy and is worth purchasing. Here are some tips for selecting apps:
 
  • Consider Free Apps First: Start by exploring free apps to get a sense of what features and functionalities are available. While they may come with ads or limited features, they can still provide valuable insights into whether a particular type of app is suitable for your student.
  • Look for Reviews and Recommendations: Seek out reviews and recommendations from trusted sources, such as assistive technology specialists, educators, and other professionals working with students with visual impairments. They can provide valuable insights into which apps are most effective and user-friendly.
  • Trial Versions: Many paid apps offer trial versions or lite versions with limited features. Take advantage of these to assess whether the app meets your student's needs before committing to a purchase.
  • Consult with Specialists: If you're considering investing in a more costly app, consult with assistive technology specialists or other experts to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness for your student's unique learning needs.
  • Stay Updated: Keep an eye on websites and resources that feature and review the latest apps for individuals with visual impairments. New apps are constantly being developed and released, so staying informed can help you discover valuable tools for your student.
 
By following these tips and being mindful of your student's specific needs and preferences, you can effectively navigate the world of apps to find the ones that best support their learning and development.
 
Here are some steps you can take when considering costly apps:
  • Assessment: Work with the assistive technology specialist to conduct a thorough assessment of the student's needs, preferences, and abilities. This will help determine which features and functionalities are essential in an app.
  • Research: Explore available apps that meet the identified criteria. Consider factors such as accessibility features, ease of use, compatibility with other devices or software, and user reviews.
  • Trial Period: If possible, take advantage of any trial periods or demo versions offered by the app developers. This allows you to test the app firsthand and evaluate its suitability for the student.
  • Consultation: Discuss your findings with the assistive technology specialist. They can provide valuable insights based on their expertise and experience working with students with visual impairments.

Access News, Music, Videos & more...

AccessWorld app
Free. AccessWorld is the official app of the American Foundation for the Blind's online publication AccessWorld. AccessWorld is an online magazine dedicated to technology and people with vision loss. 
AppleVis
AppleVis is a community-powered website for users of Apple devices who are blind or have low-vision. AppleVis reviews and features apps and also provides guides and tutorials. 
Blind Bargains app
Free. Blind Bargains is a source of the latest deals and news for the blind and visually impaired. Browse the latest deals and classifieds. Listen to the latest audio podcasts. 
Dragon Search app
Free. With Dragon Search you can search the web by voice commands!  For example, dictate “google” and the app takes you to google’s search page!
Earl app
*Free (monthly subscription is $9.99). The Earl app lets you use your voice to open a newspaper and have it read to you. Double-tap the screen, speak a few commands and read articles from 250 plus newspapers from around the world. 
Stitcher Radio app
Free Stitcher Radio allows you to create your own playable station of all your favorite content. News, music and podcasts are organized to listen to seamlessly like Pandora Radio.

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