Published: May 13, 2009 05:40 pm         

Project to host Demo Day on learning disabilities

Technology can affect the lives of people with learning disabilities in daily living — whether in the classroom, at work, in the home or in other social settings.

“Learning disabilities” are sometimes referred to as “print disabilities” — which can also be related to visual impairments or physical disabilities. Individuals diagnosed with a print disability cannot access or relate to printed information in the standard way.

The INDATA Project at Easter Seals Crossroads is hosting a yearlong series of free statewide “Demo Days” showcasing different assistive technology devices. The next “Demo Day” will feature devices that assist people with learning disabilities and will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 22 at the WILL Center at 4312 S. Seventh St.

Those with a learning disability or those simply interested in learning about the many high-tech assistive technology devices available are invited to attend the “Demo Day” demonstration.

To register for a free half-hour appointment during “Demo Day,” contact Carol Girt at 1-888-466-1314. The registration deadline is 4 p.m. May 21.

High-tech devices, such as an optical character recognition system, provide a means of entering text or printed material directly into a computer by use of a scanner, and then the information is read back to the user by means of a speech synthesizer.

Other assistive technology demonstrations include literacy software tools for the computer such as WYNN or Read & Write Gold, Pulse Smart Pen, Classmate Reader, voice input systems such as Dragon Naturally Speaking or the Microsoft Windows built-in voice software, digital microphone and many more.

The INDATA Project at Easter Seals Crossroads provides information and access to assistive technology, at no charge, for Hoosiers with disabilities. These statewide services are derived through the Indiana Assistive Technology Act (INDATA) state/federal grant and include: device demonstrations, device loans, recycled computers, reutilized assistive technology equipment, alternative financing resources and educational trainings and conferences.

Easter Seals Crossroads is a community resource working in partnership with children and adults with disabilities or special needs and their families to promote growth, independence and dignity.