Case Study
Touch Screen
Inclusive Technology is a company that advertises on the internet to supply software and hardware to people with special needs.
Touch Monitors
Direct and simple access to the computer
The computer mouse is so familiar to all of us that it has become a perfectly sensible and easy way to use our computers. So much so that when we ask someone with learning difficulties or disabilities to use a computer we seldom think about the complexity of the task we are asking them to do.
Just operating a mouse involves complex motor, sequencing and spatial skills. For some software the mouse skills may be at a higher cognitive level than the program they are trying to use. Substituting a different device such as a roller ball may make the physical task easier but will not simplify the cognitive task.
The built in touch operation provided by the MicroTouch monitors provides a direct consistent and accurate alternative to a mouse, especially for the many programs that are operated by "point and click". These are similar to the screens used commonly for interactive displays at places like airports and museums where simplicity and durability is a key requirement, just as in the classroom. The user is free to concentrate on the program rather than having to think about how to work the computer.
The intuitive access provided allows direct interaction with software without the struggle with the mouse. Attention is focused on the learning task, not on the mouse.
Interaction with "point and click" software is greatly simplified. The user does not have to search for the pointer on the screen, find the mouse and then move the pointer without losing track of it.
People with autism can concentrate on the program and not fiddle with the input device.
Group sessions won't be dominated by the one pupil who has control of the mouse, all in reach of the screen can take part.
Software needs to be designed to take a touch screen input into account.