Use of personal computing technology by deaf-blind individuals

Abstract

This paper describes a system that enables deaf-blind people to work with microcomputers. The system utilizes the International Morse Code as a general communication medium. The deaf-blind person “hears” Morse code via a vibrotactile device to “see” the computer's screen. This technique enables deaf-blind individuals to receive immediate feedback from their typing and to scan the screen. This makes it possible for them to use the keyboard and screen in the same way as do seeing persons. A side benefit is that it provides a means for deaf-blind people to communicate with the sighted through a common medium: The sighted person can see the screen while the deaf-blind person feels it. Hardware cost to equip a standard personal computer with this interface is negligible. Vibrotactile Morse code is particularly viable because it can be adapted for the individual's particular tactile sensitivities. Morse-encoded tactile communication fits well in a social facilitation context for learning. It is technologically simple and standard. This work can significantly improve the quality of life for deaf-blind individuals because it provides new opportunities for communication and vocation.