To access Closed Captions, click on the “CC” in the lower right corner of the video.
Having trouble seeing the video? Click here!
Click here to see our archived videos.
Apr 122010
To access Closed Captioning, click on the “CC” in the lower right corner of the video.
Having trouble viewing the video? Click here!
Click here to go to our archived videos.
Assistive technology comes in many shapes and sizes. It can be high tech computer software, or very low tech tools, such as a magnifying glass. These items are not restricted to any one group; all kinds of people can gain independence from using assistive technology. There are technologies that can help with hearing loss, mobility challenges, learning difficulties, vision loss, and communication. These items are available for the young and aging, whether you have a severe disability or just need a little extra help. I know that I myself take advantage of eyeglasses for my poor vision, and am not afraid to admit that I use a jar gripper from time to time!
Dragon Naturally Speaking
Speech recognition programs convert spoken words into text. They can also use voice commands to control computer applications. This technology provides accessibility to anyone who may not be able to easily utilize a keyboard or a mouse.
As you might imagine, speech recognition is not always completely accurate. It is important to remember when using such a program to be patient and consider all of the factors that could lead to mistakes. For example, investing in a microphone that filters out background noise will help your speech recognition program identify your voice.
Realize that speaking to your computer is not the same as holding a conversation with another person. It is imperative that you annunciate clearly and avoid mumbling or slurring your words. In normal conversations, we take for granted our understanding of context, and will often leave out words and expect the other person to fill in the gaps. Because softwares don’t share our common sense, they cannot interpret what you are leaving out. AbilityHub suggests listening to newscasters to get a good feel for speaking clearly and naturally.
Dragon Naturally Speaking by Nuance is a popular speech recognition software used today. With it, you can surf the web, write and send e-mail, and edit documents without ever having to touch a mouse or keyboard. Interested in trying it out? The INDATA Loan Library would gladly loan you a copy! For more information, contact Carol Girt at cgirt@eastersealscrossroads.org.
Nov 022009
Kids love toys. They love to play games. Kids with disabilities have the same needs and desires. Switch adapted toys make it possible for children to use and enjoy different kinds of toys without asking for help.
So what is a switch adapted toy?
Switch adapted toy dog credited to University of Maine at Farmington
A battery operated toy is modified with a switch (generally a large colorful button) that can be pressed to turn the toy on or off by opening or closing the circuit. This makes it easier for those who may have trouble with original on/off controls.
Prices for toys that have been switch adapted vary, and are usually based on the complexity of the toy’s functions. AdaptivePlay offers a variety of toys that are switch adapted, such as baby dolls, action figures, and plush animals. They even include batteries! While browsing their website, you can watch videos for each product to see it in action. Check out their adapted Playskool Busy Lil Garden Butterfly.
If you would like to adapt a toy on your own, there are a few different ways to do it. One way is to interrupt the electricity flowing from the battery to the motor with a piece of copper. The Alliance for Technology Access provides a detailed description on how to do this. Another method is hardwiring the toy to be switch adapted. This technique actually requires you to re-wire the toy itself. I found an excellent step by step guide from SMA Support Inc. Both require very few tools, most of which are available at Radioshack.
Switches themselves can get pretty expensive, but because they can be plugged and unplugged from each adapted toy, they get used over and over again. Enabling Devices has a large assortment, including switches that are large round colors, textured, sound activated, and much more. My personal favorite is the Pig switch!
Thanks to switch adapted toys, children with disabilities can enjoy their independence while getting to engage in recreation. The INDATA AT Loan Library currently has a few switch adapted toys in its inventory, and is scheduled to add more. For suggestions, contact Carol Girt at cgirt@eastersealscrossroads.org.