A DEVICE FOR EVERY BUDGET AND AGE
Being wickedly dyslexic, I rely heavily on fab devices every day.
At a time when many are looking for gift ideas, I’ve pulled together information on all my fave devices to help you decide if they are a good fit for your loved ones.
Rather than trying to explain their fantastic features in writing, I’ve created quick videos so you can see them in action.
This short video explains my reasons for putting this playlist together.
The order in which devices appear is determined
by their cost rather than a ranking.
I've started with the cheapest option, with a price tag of less than £20.
Trackers (or Finders)
These tiny, affordable devices can save a world of time and frustration. I love them!! Watch this video to find out:
What are they?
Who would use them and why?
How much they cost?
Amazon products
The next 3 videos were created when Amazon were heavily discounting these products. The videos explain the dyslexia friendly features. Even full price they are extremely helpful.
I recommend watching all 3 videos for full information.
Kindles
There are many different types of Kindle, all of them have dyslexia friendly functionality. This video explains which functionality is available on which devices.
Echo Personal Assistants
Echo is a smart speaker device fitted with a voice-activated virtual assistant. Amazon supply Alexa functionality in both Kindle Fire and Echo devices. Many do not realize it is available on their Kindle Fire.
The quality of the microphone and speakers varies considerably. Watching the video will allow you to experience the difference in quality, to make more informed decisions.
Smart Pens
A smart pen is a pen that contains a camera, an audio recorder and a built-in computer that enables users to record, save and upload data.
Livescribe Echo Pen
For me, this is the single most helpful device I use when taking notes in lectures/lessons.
Given that I frequently encourage people to learn to touch type, most people are surprised to find that I use this smartpen to take notes.
It is an EXCELLENT device, but it is extremely hard to describe in words. Hence, I made the video. I think you'll be amazed by what it can do.
Livescribe have brought out a few new versions of their smart pen, these include the LiveScribe 3 and the Ageir Pens, personally, I find the older Echo pen the best when converting pages of handwritten notes into typed text.
The more modern versions of the pen require a mobile device. The Echo pen does NOT need a mobile device to convert hand written notes into text. This makes it a very cost-effective option for some.
Once you have mobile devices, there are other apps that are available (see the iPad with Noteability App video below).
My son did his own research before going to uni and talked me into buying him a Neo pen. I will get him to help me review it when he is next home.
Ageir Pen
To help you evaluate it I have included some videos created by Livescribe.
It's worth remembering that the first video is designed to sell the pen. It's a very impressive video. When I create a video, my purpose is to equip you make informed decisions.
This second video goes some way to persuading me that the Ageir pen does have the features that make the Echo pen so valuable to me.
Namely, the ability to:
search on handwritten text
intelligent audio playback
share notes with intelligent audio
I will try to find time to evaluate the Aegir pen very soon and post a video on YouTube. If you haven’t already subscribed to my YouTube channel, do so and hit the bell and then you'll be informed when I upload new videos.
Smartwatches
A smartwatch is a wearable computer in the form of a watch; they provide a touchscreen or voice activated interface for ease of use.
For years I have helped older students to be more productive and organised by using reminders, diary applications and dictation on their smartphones. For some students this is life changing. For others, no matter how well set up their phones are, they don't benefit because they simply don't look at it and therefore they miss all the helpful prompts.
For anyone who falls into this category, a smartwatch could be an excellent investment, then reminders/prompts are not missed.
I found this article helpful, it details how smartwatches can be used to improve productivity.
https://uk.pcmag.com/smartwatches-1/76169/how-a-smartwatch-can-keep-you-more-organized
Apple Watch
I've always known I would benefit from a smartwatch but have been waiting for prices to come down.
As I have an iPhone and an iPad, it makes the most sense for me to use an Apple Watch.
Apple now price the Apple Watch Version 3 to compete with the Fitbit, so I bought one.
In this video, I explain how I use my Apple watch.
Given that I am still learning how to get the most out of my smart watch, I've also included a video by someone who is more knowledgeable than me, to show you how it can be used.
Children's Smartwatches
Even at the discounted price, I wouldn't purchase an Apple Watch for a young child.
However, younger children can benefit from wearing a device that prompts them when they're required to do something.
There are now many smartwatches for children. I've included this video to explain how they could be used.
This article ranks different smartwatches designed for children.
iPads
The iPad was introduced in 2010 and has evolved a lot since then. In 2019 Apple launched its 8th generation model.
Reconditioned iPad
There are many reasons why a reconditioned iPad is a great, cost effective device for dyslexics. Be aware that the older models do not have some of the key dyslexia friendly functionality.
This video explains why I think they are a good option.
8th Generation iPad
In 2019, Apple released a new, more affordable iPad (10.2 inch screen) that is compatible with the Apple Pencil.
I am reliably informed that these two Apple devices, plus the Notability app can drastically improve note taking. This video shows how they work together.
Currently, I have no experience of using these three tools together. I use the LiveScribe Echo pen (as described above) which I am incredibly happy with. Most people prefer writing in a book to writing on a tablet.
This video shows
How Notability could be used on this new cheaper iPad with the Apple pencil
Compares the iPad Pro and the cheaper 10.2 inch base model
Paperlike screen protector which makes the screen feel more like writing on paper
Laptops
Click on the image above to learn what to consider when buying a device.
I’m often asked what laptop is best for dyslexic learners. Obviously, the device I would suggest depends on the individual's requirements.
I have written lots to help make informed decisions when shopping.
Christmas is an EXPENSIVE time of year
This FREE eBook that could save you a fortune
Click on the image above to request a copy of this eBook
I know from first-hand experience how expensive dyslexia can be and how families can waste money on solutions because it isn’t in anyone’s interest to promote free solutions.
This motivated me to create this eBook
100+ FREE Solutions & Resources to
Improve Grades for Dyslexics
I give this eBook to everyone that signs up to the Achieve Now mailing list.
COVID Restrictions Over the Christmas holiday
The restrictions mean many of us will not be as hectic as usual over the Christmas holiday period.
‘When life gives you lemons....’
While it will be sad not to hang out with as many friends and family, I have decided to 'make lemonade' by using the extra time, not to sit in front of the TV but to learn more about supporting dyslexic learning. It provides an opportunity to do some online training.
If you’ve found these videos useful, can I recommend looking around the Achieve Now YouTube channel?
If you subscribe to the channel, do then hit the bell button to be informed when I create new videos.