| Some students know what they want to write,
but have difficulty forming the words or thinking of new words to use. Word prediction
programs are used with word processors to provide a more efficient way of producing
written work. A novice writer can create a complete word by typing one or two
letters. The programs reduce the number of keystrokes made by "predicting"
the desired word after a student types a single letter. Some programs even include
a "predict ahead" feature that anticipates the next word. These programs
can effectively improve the quality and level of writing by suggesting new words
stored in a customizable dictionary. The parent or teacher of a student can add
vocabulary pertinent to different topics or courses. 
Look
for different options when selecting a word prediction program, such as:
- The ability to speak words and sentences as they are created for review, editing
or communication purposes,
- The number of word choices and how they are
selected,
- Ability to modify software features for individual needs,
- Voice
output, and
- Scanning features.
Word prediction can sometimes
be found in other assistive programs such as onscreen keyboards. |
