Stories on the Computer

                                        Stories on the Computer: 

 As stated in the VSC, students should have multiple exposure to print materials and stories.  Students with visual impairments including multiple disabilities access these materials in a variety of modalities.  One access method is using a computer.  Student's with physical disabilities can access the computer using a single switch mounted at that individual's best access source, a touch screen, mouse, keyboard and even through voice commands.  Stories can be recreated into simple switch activated programs.  Students can "turn the page" of an electronic storybook by activating a switch.  Using software programs such as  Switch It Maker 2 from Inclusive Technologies, stories can come to life.  Switch It Software comes with a free player that can also be downloaded at:  http://www.switchitmaker2.com/   This allows stories to be shared.  Teachers can create an adapted version of the unit book so each student may have repeated access to stories. Electronic stories give students independence to revisit each page, review concepts, receive visual and auditory input.  Teachers can recreate stories using less visual clutter and adding animations through video for those students with CVI.

 Example of a teacher made version of "Five Green and Speckled Frogs"

Concepts: Numerals 1-5

Real Graphics of Speckled Frogs

Repeating lines in the story (repeating lines can be recorded on voice output device)

Switch is an actual frog shape

Easy to see graphics, good contrast

Students can independently read and turn the pages of an electronic book

Exposure to Print Materials