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Assistive Technology at Library Accessibility Services

Livescribe Echo 2: Recording Pen for Note Taking

The Livescribe Echo 2 is a pen that allows a student to take handwritten notes on specialized paper while simultaneously recording the audio being presented in class. Afterward, the student can tap on their written notes to replay exactly what was said at that moment in time, and then fill in any details that were missed. The digitized notes, including audio, can be transferred to a computer or mobile device for future reference and study, and can also be shared. 

Who might benefit from using Livescribe? 

Livescribe may benefit students with disabilities that impact their ability to take effective notes in class, including those disabilities that affect working memory, attention, auditory processing or writing speed. 

Benefits: 

  • Allows the user to concentrate more on listening and understanding in class by writing only minimal notes, rather than scrambling to write everything down. 
  • Reduces anxiety created by potentially missing important information – the user can always go back to the notes and audio for clarification or to add further detail later. 
  • Allows the user to be strategic with recordings and study time – can go back to hear only the specific points of the lecture needed for revision or review, not have to listen to the entire lecture all over again. 
  • Good option for course notes involving drawings, charts, diagrams, or mathematics. 

Limitations: 

  • Livescribe is only useful for courses in which the student hand writes their notes. 
  • The cost of accessories and the pen itself – consider the likelihood of loss or damage. 
  • Check out the Study Effectively guide for different note taking strategies 

More information:

C-Pen Reader: Portable Text-to-Speech Pen

The C-Pen Reader is a handheld pen scanner with advanced text-to-speech capabilities designed to aid students in reading and comprehension. By scanning printed text, the C-Pen Reader can read it aloud in a clear, natural voice. Additionally, it converts scanned text into a digital format, which can be useful for further study or note-taking. The device is portable and easy to use, making it ideal for on-the-go reading and learning. 

Who Might Benefit from Using C-Pen Reader? 

The C-Pen Reader is particularly advantageous for students who experience difficulties with reading, such as those with dyslexia or other reading disabilities. It supports learners who benefit from auditory input or need assistance with reading comprehension. 

Benefits: 

  • Auditory Support: Provides clear, natural speech of printed text, aiding those who struggle with reading or prefer auditory learning. 
  • Digital Conversion: Converts text into a digital format for easy storage, reference, and sharing. 
  • Portability: Lightweight and compact, making it convenient to carry and use in various settings. 
  • Built-In Dictionary: Offers definitions and pronunciations to enhance understanding and language skills. 
  • Adjustable Speed: Allows users to set the reading pace to suit their preferences. 

Limitations: 

  • Text Recognition Accuracy: The accuracy of text-to-speech depends on the quality of the printed material and may vary with different fonts or layouts. 
  • Battery Life: As with any portable device, battery life is a consideration, especially with extended use. 
  • Limited to Printed Text: The pen is designed for use with printed text and may not be suitable for digital or handwritten notes. 

More Information: 

Rocketbook Notebook: Reusable Smart Notebook

The Rocketbook Notebook is an innovative tool that combines the traditional note-taking experience with digital technology. This reusable notebook allows users to write with Pilot FriXion series pen and easily erase their notes by wiping them with a damp cloth. Once notes are written, users can scan pages using the Rocketbook app to digitize and organize their content. The app supports cloud integration, enabling seamless storage and sharing of notes across various platforms. 

Who Might Benefit from Using Rocketbook Notebook? 

The Rocketbook Notebook is ideal for students who need a flexible solution for notetaking and document management. It is particularly beneficial for those who want to combine traditional handwriting with digital organization and reduce the overwhelming nature of multiple classes’ worth of paper notes. 

Benefits: 

  • Digital Integration: Easily digitize and organize handwritten notes with the Rocketbook app, which integrates with popular cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneNote. 
  • Reusable Pages: The notebook can be wiped clean and reused multiple times, providing long-term cost savings and convenience. 
  • Versatile Use: Suitable for various subjects and purposes, including notetaking, sketching, and brainstorming. 
  • Quick and Easy Scanning: The app allows for efficient scanning and organizing of notes, making it easy to keep track of important information. 

Limitations: 

  • Limited Pen Compatibility: Only compatible with Pilot FriXion pens, which may require users to purchase specific writing instruments. 
  • Not for Permanent Notes: While pages are reusable, some users may prefer traditional notebooks for permanent records. 
  • Scanning Required for Digital Storage: Users must scan their notes with the Rocketbook app to digitize them, which adds a step to the note-taking process. 

More Information: 

Boox Max 3: 13.3-Inch E-Reader and Digital Notepad

The Boox Max 3 is a versatile 13.3-inch e-reader and digital notepad designed to offer a flexible reading and writing experience. Featuring a large E Ink display, the Max 3 provides a paper-like feel that reduces eye strain and enhances readability, making it ideal for people who need a high-resolution screen for extended periods. The device supports various e-book formats and includes note-taking capabilities with its responsive stylus. 

Who Might Benefit from Using Boox Max 3? 

The Boox Max 3 is particularly beneficial for student who require a large digital canvas for reading, annotating, and note-taking. It is especially useful for those who work with detailed documents, academic papers, or technical diagrams, and for users who prefer a digital alternative to physical textbooks and notebooks. 

Benefits: 

  • Large Display: The 13.3-inch E Ink screen provides ample space for viewing and annotating documents, making it suitable for detailed work and extended reading sessions. 
  • Paper-Like Experience: The E Ink technology offers a glare-free and comfortable reading experience that mimics the look and feel of traditional paper. 
  • Versatile Notetaking: Equipped with a stylus, the Max 3 allows users to take handwritten notes, make annotations, and sketch directly on the screen. 
  • Wide Format Support: Supports various e-book formats, including PDF, EPUB, and MOBI, allowing users to access a broad range of digital content. 
  • Portable and Lightweight: Despite its large screen, the device remains portable and easy to carry, making it convenient for on-the-go use. 

Limitations: 

  • High Cost: The advanced features and large display come at a higher price point compared to smaller e-readers and tablets. 
  • Limited App Ecosystem: While it supports numerous e-book formats, the range of apps available on the device may be limited compared to other tablets. 
  • Learning Curve: Users may need time to adjust to the device’s features and interface, especially if transitioning from traditional e-readers or tablets. 

More Information: 

ScanMarker Air: Wireless Pen Scanner

The ScanMarker Air is a versatile wireless pen scanner designed to streamline the process of digitizing printed text. By simply scanning over text with the pen, users can instantly convert printed material into editable digital text. The device features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to sync seamlessly with smartphones, tablets, and computers. It is compact and portable, making it an excellent tool for people who need to quickly capture and manage text from physical documents. 

Who Might Benefit from Using ScanMarker Air? 

The ScanMarker Air is particularly useful for students, researchers, and professionals who need to digitize large volumes of printed text efficiently. It is beneficial for individuals with reading difficulties, those who need to quickly extract information from books or documents, and anyone who seeks to enhance productivity by minimizing manual data entry. 

Benefits: 

  • Real-Time Scanning: Quickly converts printed text into digital format as you scan over it, saving time and effort compared to manual typing. 
  • OCR Technology: Utilizes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to accurately convert text into editable digital content. 
  • Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth functionality enables easy connection to various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, for seamless data transfer. 
  • Compact and Portable: Lightweight design makes it easy to carry and use in various settings, whether at home, in the office, or on the go. 
  • Multilingual Support: Recognizes and processes text in multiple languages, accommodating a diverse range of documents and users. 

Limitations: 

  • Text Recognition Accuracy: Accuracy may vary depending on the quality of the printed text and the scanning speed, potentially requiring manual corrections. 
  • Limited Functionality for Non-Text Content: Primarily designed for text, it may not handle graphics, charts, or complex formatting effectively. 
  • Battery Life: Regular use may require periodic charging, so users should be mindful of the device’s battery status. 

More Information: 

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