What's in the Forte and Fusion?
If you were unaware of the Fusion (like an AlphaSmart/Neo) and Forte (lighter-weight version of the Fusion), here is a rundown of the features, copied verbatim from their website this week:
Student Organization - Fusion offers individual, password protected workspace for up to 16 separate users. Each workspace will contain named files and folders. Easy and Organized.
Text to Speech (optional upgrade) - It's easy, just press the "Speak" key and listen
Word Prediction - It's easy too, just press the "Word Prediction" key to activate. WordStorm offers a fantastic array of support options.
Keyboard Instruction - Fusion offers the best personal keyboard instruction program available. Perfect Form is a thorough and well structured program designed to develop quick and accurate keyboard fluency.
Calendar [NEW!] - Help students stay organized with the Fusion's easy to use student calendar. Never miss a due date!
Math 101 [NEW!] - Provides individual practice and reinforcement on basic facts and number patterns. Great individualized practice and assessment.
Adjustable Font Size - Simply press the "Font Size" key to enlarge the font. Font size from 10 pt to 40 pt.
Split Screen Spelling/Vocabulary Program - Press the "Split Screen" key to type in topic specific vocabulary or spelling words. View word list as you write.
Abbreviation Expansion [NEW!] - Now you can type in over 40 phrases and each phrase can be accessed and spoken with just two or three keystrokes. (hr = "Hi, my name is Robert")
Thesaurus - Thousands of synonyms at the press of a single key. You'll see student writing vocabulary improve immediately.
Score Key - Students and teachers need feedback - scores. Whether it's Math, Writing or Keyboarding, simply press the "Score" key for instant evaluation.
Writing Prompts - Over 40 creative writing prompts available. Fun writing exercises for your students.
Formatted Printouts - All files sent to the computer or printer begin with a complete heading: Student Name, File Name, Teacher Name and Date
Automatic Writing Checklists - All files sent to the computer or printer end with a Writing Checklist. Help students take responsibility for editing. Several templates to choose from or create your own.
Special Needs - Sticky Keys, Auto-Repeat Delay, Spell Check Disable
What other low-cost (under $400) AT solutions do you know about that do something similar? Has anyone dropped a Fusion or Forte? We know the Neo/AlphaSmart is virtually indestructible, but what about the others? We need to explore these as writing continues to be an issue for students with disabilities!