Overview

• Word prediction software, sometimes called “predictive text”, provides users with a list of suggested words based on what they’ve previously written in a sentence

• Word prediction is frequently used in word processing programs (e.g., Word, Pages, Google Docs), but is also seen in smartphone texts and emails. It requires one letter to be typed for prediction to activate

• Can help with word selection and sentence composition skills when writing

To see word prediction in action, follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwz3YNJ_Mwg

Research

• Evmenova & Regan, 2019

  • Reviewed, among other technologies, the efficacy of word prediction software in students with learning disabilities (LDs)

  • Provide strong evidence of numerous research studies showing that word prediction software improves word generation, spelling, and sentence structure in students with LDs

• Miranda et al., 2006

  • Examined the impact of word prediction software on the written output of 8-19 year olds with a physical disability impacting their graphomotor ability through measures of words produced in 10 minutes

  • Findings demonstrated that word prediction software helped students writer faster and neater, and led to improvement in word variety usage and sentence structure

• Brown & Almond, 2021

  • Examined the usage and impact of word prediction software with bilingual children in first grade

  • Results suggest that, following word prediction software usage over 1 year, improvements were present in spelling, vocabulary, and written expression length

Quick Facts:

Advantages

• Word prediction software can be easily integrated into multiple other assistive technologies that a student may use

• Improves vocabulary, spelling, and sentence structure

• Can be used independently, in multiple applications and environments

Disadvantages

• Requires thorough training and familiarity with software

• May occasionally predict non-useful words

To Consider

• Different softwares present word prediction differently - training in one program may not translate to another