Journal #8

 Adaptive Technology

     Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is any method by which an individual with a speech or language impairment uses to communicate with another person. AAC is utilized by people with any range of speech impairment including; cerebral palsy, autism, Parkinson’s disease and much more. The methods of communication could include anything from sign language to speech production devices.

     Some methods of Augmentative and Alternative Communication don’t use any technology. Vidatak EZ communication boards (Pictured on the right) are picture boards that allow the person to point at an image that corresponds to a word or phrase. In addition to everyday phrases, these cards can be used for physically disabled people who need hospital staff to understand their needs and pain level. These cards could be used in a classroom to communicate a simple question that the person would need to ask, although it would be difficult to ask complex questions.    

      On the other hand, high tech devices can be used as an AAC. Gus! Multimedia Speech System (Pictured on the left) is a tool that can be used on any computer. Some features include a talking keyboard that verbalizes whatever you type. It can understand abbreviations like gm, which can mean good morning. It also has a spell checker and uses a clear synthetic voice. Gus! also includes an “Easy Talk” component that remembers common phrases one might use and categorizes similar sayings. It can also say any text that you highlight on any Windows application. There are also over 4,000 symbols that represent phrases or words that the user might want to verbalize. This system
could be utilized in the classroom to present class projects, research or to communicate with peers or the teacher. It is compatible with Windows applications so it can be utilized on a school computer. The student can also write essays with Gus.
     An input device is any device by which someone can input information into a computer. Some common examples are a mouse and keyboard. However, for people with disabilities, these devices may be difficult to use. Therefore, there are many modified input devices for people with special needs.
     Proloquo2go (Pictured on the right) is software that can be downloaded to an iPod, iPad or iPhone. It supports picture and text based communication where the user can customize speech, item size, color etc. The user can also create their own vocabulary if their word or phrase is not included. In addition to Proloquo 2go, are many different apps that translate speech into text. Proloquo 2go could be used in any classroom because it is portable. The person  
 with special needs would be able to use the software anywhere, therefore they would be inclined to use it often and master it.

The Magic Wand Keyboard (Pictured on the left) is a miniature keyboard that allows people with minimal strength to operate it. Instead of a mouse, the person uses a wand or mouth stick (shown in the picture) to choose the letters on the keyboard. The small keys allow the individual to work quicker than on a large keyboard that requires a lot of strength to push down the keys. This device can be used in an inclusive classroom because the student can do the same work at the same speed. They can also use any education computer program so they can keep up with their classmates.


Blogs I commented on:

Allison
Angela 

NETS-T 4.  Promote and Model Digital Citizenship and Responsibility