What Does Scanmarker Do?
Scanmarker devices use scanning and OCR technology to capture printed text. Depending on the model, features may include text recognition, text-to-speech, dictionary functionality, translation, text storage, and computer connectivity. Exact capabilities vary by model.
When Might a Scanning Pen Be Useful?
Consider a student who understands spoken instructions, has difficulty reading printed words, works with printed worksheets, frequently needs help with vocabulary, wants to work more independently, or uses assistive technology as part of their support plan. In these circumstances, a scanning pen may be worth evaluating.
Scanmarker Is Not a Reading Intervention
Educators should distinguish between teaching reading and providing access to information. If the lesson objective is decoding, the educator may want the student to apply their learned decoding strategies. If the lesson objective is understanding a science concept, it may be appropriate to provide access to difficult vocabulary. The correct use depends on the lesson.
Classroom Examples
English/language arts: a student encounters unfamiliar vocabulary during independent reading and can use the device to access selected words and continue reading. Science: a student encounters technical terminology and can access pronunciation or available definitions rather than losing access to the entire lesson. Social studies: long printed passages can contain unfamiliar names, places, and terminology, and a portable scanning tool can provide another access option. Independent work: students can potentially handle selected reading barriers without immediately interrupting the teacher.
Introducing Scanmarker to a Student
A short introduction can make a significant difference: demonstrate exactly where and how to scan, practice with simple words before introducing classroom material, explain when to use it (a support tool, not something needed for every word), let the student practice operating the device themselves, and review whether the tool is actually helping.
Establish Simple Classroom Rules
Depending on the environment, educators may want rules such as: try your reading strategy first when appropriate, use the device when it supports the lesson objective, keep the volume appropriate, don't use it as a distraction, and ask for help when the technology isn't enough.
What Educators Should Evaluate
Before selecting a device, consider accuracy (can it reliably recognize the type of printed material students use?), speed (does scanning interrupt the student's workflow?), ease of use (can students operate it without constant teacher assistance?), languages, connectivity (does it work in the school's technology environment?), portability, and classroom fit.
Assistive Technology Should Be Intentional
Technology works best when it solves a clearly identified problem. Rather than asking "how can we use Scanmarker?", ask "where is this student currently being blocked by printed text?" Then determine whether Scanmarker is an appropriate solution.