Switches

** A big thanks has to go to Adele here, who helped me figure out how to embed video in my blog. Please don't judge me. At times, I am a slow learner.


This is a nice little video illustrating a switch and completing a task. It's worth mentioning that we
(educators)  have to presume competency. In the video Nicole's Mom doesn't go on and on encouraging her. She justs waits and Nicole eventually hits the pillow switch. The waiting is really important. No prompting.

Benefits of Powerlink/Switches
-gives them options to control their environment
-inclusion in activities
-leisure activities
-communication
-engagement in curriculum
-engagement in social activities
-access to employment
Successful Switch operation depends on:
-motivation
-suitable activities
-practice time
-lots of encouragement
-position of the switch
-type of switch


Here is an amazing video demonstrating just what you can do with a switch. Just amazing. Check out where the switch is placed.

Switch Ideas

pencil sharpener
shredder
electric toothbrush
foot bath
make up mirror
juicer
coffee pot
nail dryer
bingo ball tosser
tape recorder/listening centre
overhead projector
blender
ice cream maker
sewing machine
camera


The last job of the day was an online activity. We had to find high impact videos that demonstrate a variety of AT utilized by one disability group.
We had to find videos on hearing impairments.

The Haptic Chair
This chair provides sensory imput of vibrations via touch and possibly via bone conduction of sound. The chair produces vibrations produced by musical sounds, delivering them to different parts of the body. The haptic chair was tested with hearing impaired children in Sri Lanka. Many participants asserted they identify the rhythm of the song and could "hear" it better than with traditional hearing aids.

Interpretype Demo
Interpretype is a communication system for those who are deaf, hearing impaired or experience language barriers. The system works by text messaging between devices, streaming video or by translating internet telephone. Interpretype is used in many organizations to make their services more accessible. Interpretype promises to create a "Deaf Friendly" workplace.

Clocks
This video discusses different clocks that are designed for people who have hearing impairments or who are hard of hearing. One example was an alarm clock that has a vibrating pod that can be put under a pillow. Someone who has low vision could simply use a clock or timer with larger numbers. He also mentions talking watches that tell the time. There are even more sophistocated clocks/watches that are connected to your computer that will send reminders (when to get up, when to take medications). He also describes a schedule and visual assistant that can give you reminders such as when it's time to go to Physics class.