The following document, which we also looked at when exploring the AT implementation plan, is a helpful reference when selecting assistive technology. Keeping the features of Clicker 6 in mind (e.g. text-to-speech, predictive text, the use of symbols and pictures) while browsing through this document, and think about which accommodations / modifications are applicable.
As you can see, Clicker 6 is useful for students with a wide range of needs, in a variety of areas. Any time a student could benefit from text to speech, or predictive text, especially at the elementary level, Clicker 6 would be useful. For secondary students, WriteOnline has been developed. Click here for more information about WriteOnline.
Clicker 6 costs from $360US for one computer to $3200US for an entire school. Click here for the Crick website with information about pricing. Given this range, it seems that it is more efficient to buy a school-wide license for Clicker 6 – the cost of licensing just 10 computers – but teachers must assess their needs and make that decision. The fact that Clicker 6 can be used to support literacy in such a wide range of needs and students could be convincing for the school admin. School districts can also take a look at the Provincial Software Acquisition Program run by SET-BC. They have access to popular software at cheaper pricing. (Thanks, Flo!)
There are app versions of Clicker, which may be worth investigating if your school has iPads. Click here for information about apps, and here for pricing. The apps are $30.99US each, or $89.88US for the bundle, but this is per iPad. Group pricing rates are available. This does not include the Clicker Communicator app, which is $149.99US per iPad.
One major consideration with Clicker 6, as mentioned under resources, is how you will allow all your students to access the grids you want them to work on. You may want to ask your school/district’s IT department if they can create a file folder that your entire class can access. Putting grids on every independent computer is far too time-consuming. In general, it is a good idea to get to know your IT department. They can help you check that Clicker 6 is compatible with your school’s network, and help if issues arise.
Another component to successful implementation is training. When planning for AT implementation, be sure to consider how you will make the time to get training for your staff. Maybe a professional development day? Or maybe there is a creative way to get teachers some time off so they can take training. Take a look at the links under Quick Start and How-To on this site for a few good introduction videos. Also, Crick software offers a number of different options for training. Click here to take a look. Crick also offers free webinars on its software. Click here to find out more.