The iPad has the capability to adapt to blind people's needs. It has a voice over feature that allows each app to be verbalized when a student runs over it with his or her finger. Once a student is in a particular app, there are two ways to use the keyboard: standard mode which requires a double tap to open everything or touch typing mode. The standard mode allows the student to roll over each letter and have the voice verbalize what is being touched, but nothing is entered on the screen until it is double tapped. The touch typing mode does not require doubling tapping; it only requires holding down until the letter has been entered. Depending on the need, the student will use a set number of fingers to navigate the iPad.
Teaching Math to the Blind
Teaching math to the blind is difficult because Braille is strictly linear and does not approach the two-dimensional aspect of mathematics. This is a problem because it is essential in almost every profession to understand the basic two-dimensional approach to mathematics. As a result, Professor Karshmer developed an idea. His idea included small blocks with Braille and visible numbers along with a grid that the students place the blocks on so they can physically run their hands along it. The grid is attached to a device that allows the students to scan each block and hear the number on the block. After the student places the block on the grid, the computer will verbalize where the block has been placed. This device adheres to both the touch and hearing senses of a blind student. Even though this might not help a student master calculus, it can very well help a beginner master the basics of mathematics and even algebra.
The Mountbatten
The Mountbatten is an innovative tool that gives immediate feedback to students. This device is beneficial for blind students, especially those who are not comfortable with Braille, because it helps them in a regular classroom setting. This tool gives both audio and tactile feedback to the user; meaning, as the student uses Braille it also verbalizes what is being typed. This tool is advanced because it can save files, transfer files, and receive files. Another benefit of the Mountbatten is as the student uses Braille, the Mountbatten converts the information to print and transfers it to a screen. This feature is what truly allows the students to be included in a regular classroom setting.
Autism Assistive Technology
Children with autism have a difficult time communicating. They have voices but it is very difficult for them to use it. Autism is a disability characterized by difficulties in social interaction, impaired communication, and restricted and repetitive interests or behaviors. Because of these difficulties, technology can play a major impact in these children's lives. The iPad allows autistic children to find their voice. There are many applications available to download that helps these children communicate, learn, and create. These apps encourage the children to express themselves and give them the capability to do so.
FM Systems
FM systems, or Personal Frequency Modulation Systems, are effective tools for hearing impaired students. This system is like a mini radio station that operates on special frequencies. It consists of a transmitter microphone that the speaker uses and a receiver that the listener uses. The receiver allows the sound to be transmitted to the listener's ear. If the listener is wearing a hearing aid, the sound goes directly to the hearing aid. However, a headset can be used instead of a hearing aid. This device can be used in numerous environments, including the classroom.
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