With the help of University of Aizu, Japan, Aizu Yougo Gakko School for the Challenged now has technology that is easy for the students to operate.
"Nearly 30 per cent of Aizu Yougo Gakko students have severe motor and intellectual handicaps and cannot control their limbs,” said Michael Cohen, Professor of Spatial Media Group, University of Aizu.
Hence, both schools worked together to develop interfaces that “are not especially sophisticated” but could encourage and entertain students with special needs.
These interfaces include handicapped-accessible buttons in place of conventional computer mouse and keyboard, switches to control toys and appliances, a two-button system for operating music players and an Apple iPad equipped with accessibility software.
“The iPad’s multitouch interface and integrated multimedia capability is especially useful for young Gakko students,” said Cohen to FutureGov Asia Pacific.
Cohen demonstrated an application that with the touch of an illustration, lets the iPad announce things needs like a desire to visit the restroom or hunger—making the application an easy way for Gakko students to inform the faculty of their needs and wants.
“Even if a student is not expressive verbally, he or she can touch an accessible button to indicate his or her desires,” explained Cohen.
- Future Gov Asia Pacific Magazines, by Xinghui Guo -
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