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Title: Autism and Handhelds Post by: Graham on February 01, 2008, 10:15:00 AM Palm Canada are supporting an initiative by the Geneva Centre for Autism where handheld devices are being used to assist learning for autistic individuals. Devices (Palm Z22 and T/X) are used to provide users with visual cues.
Quote TORONTO, Jan. 31 /CNW/ - Palm Canada today announced a Palm Foundation cash grant and the donation of 100 Palm(R) handhelds and accessories to kick-start a new e-Learning program at the Geneva Centre for Autism. The resources are being used for training and technical-support costs associated with transferring paper-based visual cues and reminders onto Palm handheld devices. The handheld's design, portability, ease of use and ability to support visuals has proven to be a valuable learning tool for individuals with autism. Today's announcement represents Phase II of Palm's commitment to Geneva Centre for Autism. In Phase I, Palm worked with the centre to create an e-Learning pilot program that involved training a small group of teens and young adults with autism to use Palm Z22 handhelds. As part of Phase II, the centre is receiving 100 new Palm T/X handheld devices, which will enable the centre to increase the number of individuals who can participate in the program and advance those who have benefited from Phase I. Part of the Palm Foundation grant also includes protective cases, headsets, stylus pens and keyboards for the new T/X devices. "We are very excited to work with the Palm Foundation to advance our mobile-learning initiatives for autistic individuals using cutting-edge technology. Our goal is to empower people with autism by giving them the tools they need to lead independent, confident lives," says Margaret Whelan, executive director, Geneva Centre for Autism. More info here (http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/January2008/31/c5685.html). Title: Re: Autism and Handhelds Post by: SUMS_Online on February 02, 2008, 03:21:34 PM Interesting. We are also starting to see first use of our Phonics software running on the Sony PSP (but could also be PDA) in use with autistic children. Initial feedback makes it seem very powerful, I would guess because of the one-to-one relationship of the device and child.
I'd be delighted to provide free copies of our Phonics (and maths if required) software to anyone else piloting handhelds with autistic pupils. Regards David SUMS Online Ltd 01454 853539 http://www.syntheticphonics.co.uk (http://www.syntheticphonics.co.uk) |