Assistive Technology Supports for Reading: How to better support your students’ reading environment: Small Tablet & Cell Phone Supports

Small Tablet & Cell Phone Supports

There are certainly times when your students will want to read on their small mobile devices. To help with proper alignment when they are reading for any length of time, there are supports that are designed specifically for small tablets and cell phones to aid in positioning.

Tablet Supports

Although tablets can be mounted onto some of the smaller laptop supports reviewed in an earlier posting, it’s important to be certain that the tablet is secure, hands-free and positioned such that the device is at eye level.

Tablet Stands: These stands are designed to be positioned on a desktop or table. With that said, these make good options for young students or those who are shorter so that the screen of the tablet is more at eye level.

Adjustable Tablet Stands: For students who are taller or need alterations in the position of the tablet’s screen, stands that are adjustable are preferable. Adjustments can be found for height, angle and rotation.

Tablet Floor Stand: Floor stands are especially nice when students are seated in comfy chairs, sofas, beds and wheelchairs. They are often adjustable so can be positioned at different heights, angles and rotations to customize the reading experience for students.

Cell Phone Supports

Because cell phones are small, students often listen to books instead of reading books with their eyes. Yet, regardless how they read the ebook, a cell phone should be positioned for easy access.

Cell Phone Stands: Like tablet stands, a cell stand is designed to be placed on a desktop, table, or wheelchair tray. They often have a spring-like grip that holds the phone in place and in some cases, can be rotated so the cell is positioned vertically or horizontally. In addition, some of these devices can be mounted to the desk or tray for extra stability.

Gooseneck Cell Phone Holders: These supports are also intended for multiple placements: desks, tables, beds, chairs or wheelchair trays. They are most often designed to be clamped/clipped onto the edge of the surface. From the surface attachment to the spring clamped phone holder is a flexible telescopic arm called a gooseneck. This gooseneck arm enables customization through rotation, height and distance.

There is even one that is portable. This holder can be placed anywhere – even around a student’s neck while reading in a seated position like in bed!

Cellphone or Tablet Support

You can find positioning supports that can be used for cell phones and tablets. They range from devices are like those described above by are designed to can sit on hold different sized screens… to very low-tech solutions like phone and tablet grips.