Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services

Device Review: PhotoMath App

Reviewed on September 19th, 2017

Jamie Kaplan M.Ed., CTRS, ATP

Overview

PhotoMath reads and solves mathematical expressions by using the camera of your mobile device in real time.  This app provides both solutions and explanations to simple and complex math equations. This can be beneficial to Polytrauma patients that are returning to educational pursuits as well as those that want to help their children with their homework.

Indications

Cognitive Symptoms: decreased attention, organizational skills, and problem solving ability; difficulty with abstract concepts; memory deficits; perceptual problems; poor concentration, poor judgment; slowed information processing, and poor memory.

Contraindications

No contraindications noted at this time. 

Criteria for Evaluation of Assistive Technology Device

Affordability: This is a free app accessible by computer, tablet or smartphone device.

Compatibility: The app will run on Windows and Mac computer operating systems as well as Apple and Android smartphones. The main requirement is that the device must have a camera as that is the main method of information input. 

Consumer Reparability: If application is not working, repair is as simple as deleting the app and redownloading it.

Dependability: I have utilized the app over multiple devices and operating systems with consistent functionality 100% of the time.

Durability: The app will perform the same over time and device as long as the input method (Camera) and device are in good working order.

Ease of Assembly:

No assembly required.

Ease of Maintenance:

The app can be set up for automatic updates so that the most current version is always available.  Updates usually coincide with updates to computer and smartphone operating systems for compatibility.

Effectiveness:

The app provides simple solutions to mathematical equations regardless of the type (Basic Math, Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, Statistics).

Flexibility:

The app can be used over varied devices regardless of operating system as long as there is a functional camera for information input.  The app also has a traditional calculator/keyboard input if a camera is not an option.

Learnability:

There is no specialized training required for the use of this app.  Instructions are stated using clear, concise language.

Operability:

If an individual can utilize the functions of their device’s camera, (aim, focus and click) they can use this app. They also have the option of traditional input utilizing a physical or virtual keyboard.

Personal Acceptability:

There are no psychological ramifications of utilizing this app in public as it can be utilized on a smartphone device or tablet.

Physical Comfort:

There has been no contraindication regarding comfort in the use of this app.

Portability:

The app is easily utilized on multiple devices such as smartphones and tablets therefore portability is not an issue.

Securability:

The app can be secured on your device by enabling password protection or screen lock on your electronic device.

Supplier Reparability:

Not applicable.

Both of my children have ADHD with typical symptoms (poor focus and concentration, poor initiation, poor task management, etc.).  This app helps them with their math homework as they tend to miss steps or take poor notes during class lectures.  PhotoMath also allows me to help them with their homework as it shows the solutions in a step by step manner that helps me to understand the concepts they are working on and put it into terms they understand based on their learning patterns.

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