Download Article Review: Public Computer Assisted Learning Facilities fo

Article Review: Public Computer Assisted Learning Facilities fo Children with Visual
Impairment: Universal Design for Inclusive Learning by Kin Wai Michael Siu and Mei
Seung Lam
This article focused on ways that Computer Assisted Learning facilities can be
improved to provide equal access to persons with visual impairment, especially
children with visual impairment. The authors contend that most CAL computer input
and output devices are not easy for children to use; they recommend ways to improve
the design so that visually impaired children can fully benefit from this form of
technology.
To promote their ideas, the authors reference both a research project carried out in
Hong Kong (2010-2011), and universal design principles recommended by The Center
for Universal Design at North Carolina State University. Among the many cogent design
principles recommended, three stood out as being essential for visually impaired
individuals, regardless of their age. The authors point out the physical strain involved
for visually impaired children when having to input information. This can be overcome
by using speech recognition software. Audio output can be equipped so that it is
converted to Braille as well. Reading Braille at the computer involves repetitive physical
actions; having written material converted to auditory output conserves the individual’s
energy for learning new material.
Visually impaired persons benefit greatly from computer facilities that are equipped
with audio or tactile prompts that inform the user when to wait while data is loading, or
to that materials have been successfully sent to the printer. Similarly, computer facilities
should be equipped with audio warnings to help avert the accidental deletion of data, or
accidentally printing large numbers of pages. Features such as these can eliminate
needless frustration on the part of the user.
Finally, an important computer design feature for visually impaired persons is a
keyboard that can be operated with one hand, due to the need to frequently use the
other hand to read output information or manually operate other devices that are
connected to the computer.
Properly equipped computer assisted learning hardware for visually impaired
individuals is cost prohibitive for many families. Therefore, it is imperative to
provide access through public facilities in places such as schools and libraries,
in order to provide inclusive learning opportunities for all students.
Reference
Early Childhood Education. J (2012) 40: 295-303
DOI 10:.1007/s10643-011-0502-9