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Education case studies
"Having an adapted computer has revolutionised John’s life – his education would not be possible without it"
John is eleven-years-old and has Cerebral Palsy – which affects his mobility, coordination and speech. A gifted child, John had been attending primary school for two days a week with the goal of going full-time as soon as possible, but his inability to record information quickly and accurately had been holding him back.
His AbilityNet assessment was a revelation – a smaller keyboard was much more suited to John’s limited range, allowing him to work directly on his wheelchair tray. A key guard and two software modifications (free within Windows) helped improve his accuracy. A joystick instead of a mouse offered greater comfort and control, whilst general literacy and speed were enhanced with word predication software.
To develop the use of John’s right and weaker hand, AbilityNet suggested he try playing computer games with switch input – an option that provoked John’s immediate enthusiasm.
Within a short time, John became a full-time pupil and is looking forward to High School. Jill, his mother, says:
"John used to be frustrated by thinking so much faster than he could write and being dependent on others for help. Now he is an independent student and can pursue his studies at his natural pace."
"With AbilityNet’s help Kersha is becoming fully integrated into classroom activity, gaining in independence and making a valuable contribution to school life."
Kersha is a lively and intelligent ten-year-old with Cerebral Palsy which affects her mobility, speech and dexterity. At her mainstream school, she follows the National Curriculum and was using a PC as her main tool for recording and retrieving information.
AbilityNet suggested a smaller, compact keyboard and a lap-top as much more mobile alternatives to the static, full size, standard equipment and an ergonomic mouse was easier to control than the tracker ball she had been used to. Spelling, typing speed and accuracy were all improved with the help of software modifications, as well as keyboard shortcuts to minimise cursor movements.
To support these changes, Kersha’s teachers attended some training sessions, which have proven invaluable. Says Louise, the school’s Coordinator for Whole College Learning:
"AbilityNet’s analysis and training was the best. We’d have been lost without their expert help and continuing support. Kersha can now work independently to attain the same goals as her classmates and as a result her self-esteem and confidence have increased dramatically."
"As a parent of a visually impaired child, I’m always looking for ways to improve her skills and learning abilities for play and school work."
Leonora is a lively and curious seven-year-old who enjoys being independent and attends a mainstream school. Her ‘Leber’s Amaurosis’ means that she is visually impaired with only a little peripheral vision and her mother Rebecca was keen to help her explore her potential with the aid of computer technology. AbilityNet recommended an adapted system with magnification software and speech feedback, a trackerball instead of a mouse and a range of software products suited to Leonora’s age and needs.
Leonora now enjoys manipulating sounds and images autonomously, is learning how to use the keyboard and looking forward to starting a typing tutor in the near future.
"It is empowering for both of us," says Rebecca,"Leonora is beginning to grasp the alphabet and word structure – a huge leap forward which has increased her self confidence and entertained her in equal amounts. She is making enormous progress and, as importantly, is also having fun with her new found skills."
" Rebecca hopes that the ICT provision at school will soon mirror that which Leonora has at home and that this continuity will help significantly to maximise the benefits that ICT can offer. “An adapted PC is a flexible tool with endless possibilities for my daughter. With AbilityNet’s help, I now have the knowledge to support and guide Leonora into the future with confidence," she adds.