Assistive technology in
special education:
C-Pen Reader
Esmeralda Luna
Professor Joni Flowers
EDU 214-1007
What is a C-Pen Reader?
• A C-Pen Reader is a scanner in the shape of a pen that scans text and reads it out loud.
While reading one can pass the pen on top of text and it will automatically read it out
to you as well as provide you with definitions of words you may not know. It comes
with a screen on the pen which shows which lines have been read as well.
• It is suitable for children ages 6 and up.
• It includes a built-in voice recorder with playback and can also connect to a computer,
headphones, USB, and automatically upload the data you are scanning as notes.
Who does it benefit?
• This reading pen benefits students with dyslexia and visual impairments. It will benefit
students with dyslexia because students can audibly hear a word instead of reading
them on their own, same thing goes for students with visual impairments. They can
audibly hear practically anything being read with this device without having to
physically try and read the text on their own.
• This device is also beneficial for teachers to help students with these disabilities
mentioned.
• A study based on students who used the reader
pen “The student with the poorest reading
skills benefitted the most” (Johnson 2021).
• Easy and simple to use for almost all ages.
• Easily transport it everywhere.
Pros of using • Provides a great way to help students with
reading and visual disabilities.
• Can be used for note taking, data backs up to
your computer.
• Helps students become more independent with
their readings.
• The price of these devices can range up to
$300, which is very pricey for most people.
• Works mainly on text that is printed black
on a white background.
Cons of using • Only works with smaller text.
• The accuracy of the pen depends on how
you hold it and how fast you scan the text.
• Requires daily charging which can be a
hassle.
• Assistive technology is extremely beneficial for
both teacher and student, but we have to
remember it is only there to assist students
with learning disabilities. Most devices can not
”cure” disabilities but they can help the
student greatly, “Assistive technology cannot
fix or eliminate learning difficulties. However,
More learning to develop their strengths and
attempt to eliminate their weaknesses,
information individuals with learning disabilities can lead
rewarding and successful lives”(Adebisi,
Liman, & Longpoe 2021).
• Where to get a Reader Pen and how to use:
[Link]
• Video about how to use a Reader Pen:
[Link]
References/Citations
• Adebisi, R. O., Liman, N. A., & LONGPOE, P. K. (n.d.). Using Assistive Technology in Teaching
Children with Learning Disabilities in the 21st Century. Retrieved February 25, 2021, from
[Link]
• Johnson, I. (n.d.). Does the Oxford Reading Pen Enhance Reading Accuracy and Comprehension
for Students with Reading Difficulties in a Classroom Environment? Retrieved February 25, 2021,
from [Link]
Websites Used
• [Link]
• [Link]