Simple speech
output devices are being increasingly used with older learners. They can give
non-vocal students or those with severe learning difficulties a voice and allow
them to join in with group activities. These days the voices and pictures used
can be those familiar to the student - any parent, carer or friend will be able
to "program" devices like the AMDi Tech/Talk 8 or
4talk4 in a few minutes.
Students using switch operated software will be able to control
devices with switch presses and their actions can be reinforced with sounds and
symbols. On-screen activities can become real activities - like using the
4talk4 (which accepts inputs from other switches) to control battery
devices. Even 240 volt mains appliances can be controlled if you hook up to the
AbleNet Powerlink 3.
Symbol users will soon find that pressing a familiar symbol will
help them make a choice, make an impact or just join in. If
Writing with Symbols 2000, ChooseIt! Maker or SwitchIt!
Maker are appropriate for your students' needs, then it is likely that the
selection of speech output devices and switches in the Access Devices section will be useful too.
