Assistive Technology and the UbiDuo

"Mobile technologies can be considered as an indispensable alternative for hearing impaired  individuals as they facilitate their interaction with the society, and meet their daily and instructional needs." (ebscohost.com, 2009)

Hearing will always be a priority in my life as I've always had health problems due to the condition of both my inner ears. Since I was an infant, health issues stemming from my ears have continuously plagued me up to this day. Tubes placed in my ears as a child, ruptured eardrums, and scar-tissue forming in my left ear, has left me with minimal hearing loss. If my hearing continues to decrease, I know I live in a time where technology will continue to advance and perhaps help me in one way or form, to restore it!

"Hearing impaired individuals constitute an important part of the society. They have the same cognitive abilities as hearing individuals;however, it is harder for them to interact with the society because of their impairment.

Thus, it carries utmost importance to integrate information and communication technologies into instructional endeavors with the hearing impaired."   

(ebscohost.com, 2009)

 

                  Patrons with hearing impairments benefit with the UbiDuo! 

                             Librarians demonstrate the UbiDuo at 3:28

                                                                             

                                       What is the UbiDuo for library patrons?

The UbiDuo is a communication device that enables deaf, hard of hearing and hearing people to communicate face-to-face without any barriers. The device consists of two keyboards and screen devices that allow a deaf and a hearing person to carry on a conversation. A valuable assistive technology device to help make library visits independently enjoyable!                                   Resources:

Odabasi HF, Kuzu A, Girgin C, Cuhadar C, Kiyici M, Tanyeri T. Reflections of Hearing Impaired Students on Daily and Instructional PDA Use. International Journal of Special Education. 2009;24(1):8-19.
https://search-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.palomar.edu
Abberton, E.V., Hazan,& Fourcin, A.(1990). The development of constructiveness in profoundly deaf children speech.Clinical Linguistics and Phonetics,4(3), 209.