Apple iPod Touch AT device

An Apple iPod Touch modified to benefit people with disabilities, particularly people with Autism. The device uses the touch screen, pictures and video capabilities of the iPod Touch to make a speaking Augmentative and Alternative PECS type device that doesn't cost $10,000 dollars. With the new iPod Touch it has a built-in speaker, so the person can use the touch screen to select video recordings of common phrases or adaptive commands and verbalize them. I made these recordings within 20 minutes. For example, a recording could assist someone wanting to use the bathroom; it would say on the video, "Can I use the restroom?" and the device also can show a picture of a toilet for easy identification. The receiver (the person hearing the command) of the communication would be able to hear the person's commands out-loud or the person could wear an ear piece and repeat the recording to the receiver. This program would be used for people who are non-verbal or with articulation difficulties. The program can also include a visual database so if the person wanted a jacket but can't ask for one, the person can select the picture of a jacket from the picture database to communicate the need for a jacket. The device can hold hundreds of pictures.

The device shown was made for use in education. The first two pictures are the devices' reinforcer and lesson schedule section. The reinforcer section has music, videos, favorite internet sites, or pictures of objects the student might want. The lesson section would have a notes area for staff communication or a behavior incident's log, a calculator, map, mail, weather, clock (with timer and stop watch), and calender. The timer is excellent for use with students who have Autism and the stop watch is great for timing laps during PE, timing behavioral episodes, or seizures. I would also included links to pages where I want students to explore during class-for higher functioning students. The student information section would be for staff not familiar with the student; it would have pertinent information like food allergies, violent tendencies, what works well with the student, etc.

The device costs about $250 per unit, including a cheap protection case that clips on to things. Many devices, as if you had multiple students using the iPods Touch, can be synched within minutes from a central computer.

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Tags:

• Assistive Technology
• Apple iTouch