by Ayub Rustamov, PRC-Saltillo Ambassador
My Accent device is a major part of how I complete my schoolwork and participate in class. In fact, almost everything I do independently involves my eye tracking device in some way. Right now, I use the Accent 1400, and soon I will be using the Genesis 16.
Harford County Public Schools uses Microsoft products for schoolwork, including Word, OneNote, Outlook,and PowerPoint. I use my Accent with my eye tracker to access these programs and complete my assignments. I type everything with my eyes, from English papers to French assignments.
OneNote is especially helpful for me because my class notebooks are digital. My teachers can put assignments, worksheets, and other materials directly into my OneNote notebook. When I complete work in the notebook, it syncs with my teacher's account, so they can see what I wrote automatically. Sometimes I use Microsoft Word for assignments. When I finish my work in Word, I share the completed document with my teacher. For projects, I use PowerPoint and create my presentations using eye tracking.
Most of my classroom materials are digital, which makes them much easier for me to access. If something cannot be provided digitally, my paraeducator can read it to me. My para is also there to support me when I need help, but my eye tracker allows me to do as much as possible on my own.
In Algebra 2, I use eye tracking to type my work. My para and I may work through a problem together on a whiteboard, and then I type one of the most important steps for solving the problem into OneNote along with the answer. This allows me to show my understanding of the math while using a method that works for me.
In English class, I use my eye tracker to write papers, answer questions, complete assignments, and, of course, participate verbally in class discussions. I use it in similar ways in French 2. I type answers, complete vocabulary and writing assignments, and participate in class activities. I even try to speak in French using my device, even though sometimes it sounds very wrong.
My Accent device gives me a way to participate in the same classes and complete the same types of assignments as my classmates. I may access the work differently, but I am still doing the work.
The biggest thing people should understand is that my eye tracking device is connected to almost everything I do in my life. Without my Accent 1400, I would not be able to do many things independently. It helps me communicate, complete my schoolwork, participate in class, and have more control over my everyday life.
For me, my Accent device is much more than a piece of technology. It is a tool for independence.
Video of Ayub using his device to send an email in MS Outlook.
You must be logged in to post.
Communicators In Action