Deb,

The Discover Switch can be used to independently access the computer for
off the shelf applications, as well as, switch adapted software.

We have an 11 year old child with quad cp who uses a powerchair, Dynavox,
and multiple software packages independently with this method.  He has used
game software to increase his visual skills as well as switch timing skills.

If you would like, you may contact me directly and I can give a some
software ideas based on what types you are looking for.  Slater Software
may have the software you are looking for as far as converting picture
symbols to words.   However,  I don't know if you could use the Dynasyms
directly or if you would have to use PCS.  My son has not had any trouble
using both symbol systems.

Cheryl Kloss


> [Original Message]
> From: Dufour, Deb RQHR <[log in to unmask]>
> To: <[log in to unmask]>
> Date: 5/9/2005 2:47:39 PM
> Subject: visually impaired computer adaptations
>
> Hello,
>
> I've received a consultation request from a family for computer access and
> software adaptations for their child, and was hoping that those who were
> much more experienced could offer up some suggestions.
>
> Tyson is a ten year old boy who has spastic quadriplegia and many visual
> difficulties. He uses a power wheelchair with four switches for mobility.
> Tyson currently uses a dynovox to communicate quite successfully, using a
> series of switches.  The dynavox is mounted on the back of his wheelchair
as
> he only uses the auditory feedback to communicate.  We are looking for
some
> software ideas and computer use ideas to work with Tyson on, for:
> 1. social skills (as he is a very concrete thinker and school wants to
work
> on improving his abstract thinking skills)
> 2.  to work on improving his visual tracking
> 3.  for email (picture symbol to text ... then to beam it to a computer to
> email a friend).
>
> Would Discover switch be an idea?
> Is there software out there that would work on such goals, but have
auditory
> feedback and be visually non-distracting?
> Does anyone know of software that works with picture symbols, that you can
> beam into the computer?  Can the dynavox be used for this purpose?
>
>
> Thanks for any advice you can give!!
>
> Deb
>
>
> Debra Dufour
> Occupational Therapist
> WRC - Children's Program