Every now and then, we find stories where mobile technology changes the culture of a community or business. Nothing is more refreshing than technology helping those suffering from a disability as simple as speaking. Apple is at the forefront when it comes to innovation for those having to endure any kind of impediments.
However, in this case, The Modesto Bee reports that clients at United Cerebral Palsy of Stanislaus County are benefiting from the effectiveness of the Apple iPad. The iOS tablet is replicating the same kind of communication work seen from a specialized machine that cost eight grand!
UCP CEO Scott Webb explains the benefits of the iPad, saying “This just opens up a whole lot of possibilities.” Adding “It has opened up people with disabilities to a whole new world.”
The center offers day programs five days a week for those with disabilities. And with a $40,000 state grant from the California Communication Access Foundation in 2011; UCP sidestepped having to blow $8,000 on a DynaVox. A DynaVox is an over sized tablet that allows users to press corresponding letters and images to speak words and phrases.
So what did the center spend the money on, you ask?
Well, UPC was able to buy six iPads, as well as other communications technology including a SmartBoard, an interactive touch screen white board, and two GoTalks, simple touch-to-talk tablets. The essential pieces were the iPads, though. UCP communications officer Mario Supnet claims iPads are better because they’re more versatile and customizable than the bigger clunkier and expensive technology. It’s hard to argue that.
It’s cool to see the iPad is continuing to become more than just an entertainment tool, but a productive piece of equipment that could be used in schools, hospitals, and centers like this.
UCP boss, Scott Webb, said he hopes to get more iPads in the future.
[via The Modesto Bee]