Input and output devices for users with specific needs questions and answers
Q1. Explain why a trackerball may be more useful than a mouse to someone with limited mobility in their arms.
A1. No need to grip the trackerball. It can be pushed around. Can have larger trackerballs, which makes moving the ball easier than a mouse.
Q2. Suggest other devices which may be of use to someone with mobility problems in their arms.
A2. E.g. Foot pedals, suck and blow devices to operate switches, eye movement devices, pointing devices attached to head, software that accepts voice commands e.g. to open a file, print something etc.
Q3. What computer hardware and software might be used for someone with a visual impairment?
A2. Braille keyboard, overlays on keyboard, keyboards with large keys, magnifying devices on the monitor, larger monitors with magnifying software, adjustment of monitor to improve colour contrast, microphones for text input and commands, speakers for listening to text, which is read back by software, braille printers.
Q4. Explain what 'voice recognition software' is and why it is useful.
A4. This is sotware that can convert the spoken word into a digital format. This can then be entered into a word processor or used to control actions on the computer such as opening or closing an application.
Q5. What problems might someone have using voice recognition software?
A5. Strong accents, the need to teach the software words and having a cold may all change the software's ability to work efficiently.
Q6. What is arthritis?
A6. This is a disease that attacks the joints in bones and makes it very painful or impossible to move them.
Q7. What is 'braille'?
A7. This is form of writing that uses raised dots in codes, used by people with sight disabilities.
Q8. People often talk about 'motor skills'. What is meant by this phrase?
A8. 'Motor skills' is the phrase used to describe the effectiveness of moving different parts of our body to achieve different things.
Q9. Do some research. People who lose a hand may sometimes be fitted with a robotic hand that can carry out basic functions. 3D printing could revolutionise the production of prosthetics such as hands. Find out how far away this is from being commonly used.
Q10. Do some research. What kind of input and output devices does Stephen Hawking, the Physicist, use to help him in his daily life?