Assistive Technology for Students with Physical Challenges
EyeTech TM4 Eye Tracking System
EyeTech's TM4 is an alternative computer input device. The technology creates the opportunity for users to access a computer with eye-haze, rather than using a keyboard or mouse. (The TM4 is the black bar seen below the monitor in the picture on the left). Such technology would be useful for people who are not able to access a computer with their hands. For students with physical disabilities, such as those with quadriplegia, Spastic Cerebral Palsy or some forms of Muscular Dystrophy, an eye tracking input system offers them a way to input their ideas and to express themselves, as well as to access internet sites and other digital materials
This video, from the makers of the camera used in the TM4, shows the device in action. As shown in the video, a wink with the left eye acts as a left-click on the mouse.
|
This video shows what a difference technology has made in this young man's life. Although he is not able to control his hand movements, he does have eye gaze control which allows him to use his communication device more independently. As he states, the technology has helped others to better understand him and to see him as an intelligent and capable person.
|
Satalight: The Height- and Angle-Adjustable SmartBoard
The Satalight is an interactive whiteboard that is adjustable for both height and angle. This means that students who use a wheelchair and students who are little people are able to directly interact with the presented learning materials. The Satalight uses a short-arm projection device so that the student's shadow is far less likely to block the screen. Additionally, the screen is hardier than typical SmartBoards so that a student with Cerebral Palsy, who may be less able to modulate the intensity of pressure used to select an item on the screen, is able to use the touchscreen safely. Alternatively, the satalight is switch-accessible for students who have a more limited range of motion. Satalight offers ideas of how the device could be used for individuals with a wide-range of needs in this downloadable .PDF file.
Here is a news story from 2008 about the use of Satalight in the classroom. As the young man says in the video, with this assistive technology tool, students can "do more". They are better able to access the learning opportunities presented and they are more engaged.
|
Here's a lengthy video that showcases how assistive technology has helped students with physical challenges to gain independence in their lives and to have more control over their education.
|