It may be out of the price range of most British schools, but a new “wearable” computer from an American company could represent the future of ICT for special needs education.
Xyberkids is based on Xybernaut’s Mobile Assistant V, a robust and lightweight portable computer that has the same processing power as a conventional desktop PC, but is small and light enough to be carried in a backpack or coat pocket.
It is accessed through a viewing screen that is readable indoors and outside.
Xybernaut says the device is a learning tool, a way to communicate, a personal organiser and a “means of self-expression and control” that facilitates interaction between a student and teacher or class.
Software tools can be loaded to deal with students’ specific needs. Those with speech difficulties can communicate through touch-activated icons.
Schools in Maryland and Virginia are among those using Xyberkids and now the Coventry local school district near Akron, Ohio, has received several state grants to buy the wearable computers. They are priced from $4,995 (pound;3,427) and will be available in the UK later this year.
Following positive results from a pilot programme, the district is one of the first to deploy the product. It will use them for children with autism, cerebral palsy and physical disabilities to help with written expression, converting text and images into structured speech and improving study and organisational skills.
www.xybernaut.comxyberkids
Chris Johnston
