Assistive technologies helping WRDSB students learn with confidence at school and at home

Galen Simmons, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A growing range of assistive technologies available through the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) is helping students across the region strengthen reading, writing, organization and study skills, while giving families practical ways to support learning at home.

Designed to remove barriers and build independence, assistive technologies are digital tools that help students better access the curriculum and demonstrate what they know. While often associated with individual education plans, many of the tools promoted by the WRDSB can benefit a wide range of learners, regardless of ability or learning style.

“These technologies give families practical tools they can use at home,” said WRDSB communications officer Estefanía Brandenstein. “Parents and caregivers can help their children review classwork, practice skills, complete assignments more efficiently, or explore additional learning opportunities. When used at home, these tools support task completion and help build a child’s confidence in their ability to demonstrate learning in the classroom.”

The board has been expanding its focus on assistive technology since 2021, aligning with its strategic plan to strengthen student engagement and success by working closely with families. The school board’s assistive technology team also collaborates with teachers to integrate these tools into everyday classroom learning, ensuring students encounter consistent supports at school and at home.

The technologies themselves cover a wide range of learning needs. Text-to-speech tools allow students to hear written material read aloud, supporting comprehension and reducing fatigue for struggling readers. Speech-to-text tools help students turn spoken ideas into written work, easing the challenge of writing for those who think more clearly out loud. Highlighting, vocabulary builders and digital note-collection tools help students organize information and focus on key ideas when studying or researching.

Organization and planning tools are another major focus. Digital supports such as task lists, reminders and note-keeping apps help students manage assignments, prepare for tests and break large projects into manageable steps. These tools can be especially helpful for students who feel overwhelmed by deadlines or who struggle with time management.

“These technologies can support learning across all subject areas,” Brandenstein said. “They are particularly effective for reading, writing, studying, organization and test preparation, but because they’re flexible and customizable, they can be adapted to different subjects, grade levels and learning styles.”

To help families better understand what’s available, the WRDSB assistive technology team has been offering a series of short online learning sessions throughout January, aimed at families with children in grades seven to 12. While the sessions are optional, the board encourages families to explore the tools whether or not they attend.

The final session in the current series, focused on planning and organization tools such as Google Tasks and Google Keep, will take place on Monday, Jan. 26, from 12:30-1 p.m. No registration is required and details are available through the WRDSB website.

A similar three-part series is planned for February for families with children in grades four to eight.

“The board recognizes that when parents, caregivers, educators and students work together, learning is strengthened both at school and at home,” Brandenstein said. “We’ll continue offering opportunities like this throughout the school year.”

More information about assistive technologies and upcoming learning sessions can be found at wrdsb.ca or through the board’s social media channels.