The Hindu : Kerala / Thiruvananthapuram News : Using technology for special learning

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Monday, Sep 21, 2009
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Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram

Using technology for special learning

Staff Reporter

Developing skills: A child undergoes training at the activity lab of the Insight centre at Vellayambalam in Thiruvananthapuram.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As part of extending Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to those with developmental disorders, the Insight project has launched an activity lab for children with autism and other disabilities at the Insight centre at Vellayambalam.

The lab, set up entirely on a free software platform, seeks to explore the use of various digital technologies to enhance learning and communication abilities of these children, a statement issued by Insight said. Children will be introduced to relatively simple packages like Gcompris and non-violent games. They will be then taken through programming interfaces like Scratch, Insight coordinator James P. Mathew said. “Educational software like GCompris and programming interfaces like Scratch are found to be very useful in building the learning and communication skills of autistic children. We are also planning to impart training to physically challenged persons in using predictive text input devices like Dasher,” Mr. Mathew said.

The lab was inaugurated by Vivek, a differently abled child on Saturday. Renowned psychiatrist Mary Varghese and Future India Foundation director K. Vijayachandran were also present.

Mr. Mathew said the lab also planned to develop customised input devices for the physically challenged. Customised software will be made available based on demand from parents and doctors working in the field. The activities of the children at the lab will be monitored by professionals.

“Initially, there will not be any timetable for the children in using the lab. Some leading doctors in the field have consented to associate with this programme. We will also have the full-time services of a professional with background in special education,” he said.

The services of the activity lab, funded by the Kerala State IT Mission, will be entirely free for special children.

The Insight project was launched in 2007 for imparting ICT training for the visually challenged. More than 100 visually challenged individuals have been provided basic computer and Internet application training under the project. It is being jointly implemented by the IT Mission and Society for Promotion of Alternative Computing and Employment (SPACE). Those interested may contact 0471-4011811.

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