Excellent point Martin,
There are a number of 3D models for Biology and anatomy, chemistry and
physical science with (molecule model kits), and a number of
mathematical models of different 3D shapes. These are not made for
people with disabilities, they are used as teaching aids for sighted
students even at the college level. They are extremely helpful for hands
on for students who are blind, visually impaired, or who have no depth
perception. Oh, don't forget the talking graphing, scientific, and
statistical calculator(s).

Best,
Terri
 



-----Original Message-----
From: Equal Access to Software & Information
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Martin McCormick
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2008 9:58 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: seeking a list of aides and appliances to have in an
accessible science lab


	One thing I always wished they had when I was taking college
biology was 3-dimensional models of all the things that can only be seen
under a microscope such as one-celled plants and animals. I am not sure,
but somebody may produce such models these days.

	As for physics,  the things you suggest are certainly useful but
one can also learn quite a lot from low-tech things if the instructor
handles it right.

	Such things as musical instruments and the sounds you get when
hitting the open end of a pipe with the palm of one's hand while the
other end is closed and then repeating the same thing with the other end
open, can demonstrate various properties of waves.

	This might turn out to be more of a systems problem in which
teachers could suggest how they would go about teaching various
scientific principles to those who are blind.

	As one who in the seventies studied occupational and adult
education, I appreciate what you are doing. It will be most effective if
common materials can be used possibly in uncommon ways so that the
facilities are affordable to as many people and groups as possible.


Martin McCormick WB5AGZ  Stillwater, OK Systems Engineer OSU Information
Technology Department Network Operations Group

>Hi all,
>	
>I am working on a project to enhance access to maths and science for 
>middle and high school students in India.  One of the suggestions that 
>was given was to create model labs so that educators, students, parents

>etc.  alike could come, see what is available and equip their labs 
>accordingly.  At the moment, the project is focusing primarily on the
blind.
>
>What equipment would one need to make a science lab accessible?  For 
>instance, in a physics lab, I can think of having a talking multimeter.
>Similarly, in a chemistry lab, I can think of having light probes and 
>talking colour detectores. Has anyone tried something like this?  What 
>equipment should I get to create such a model lab?  I am willing to 
>split the labs into physics, chemistry and biology.
>
>Anyone any thoughts?
>Pranav
>