Keyboard Connection

A new type of keyboard is opening the world to people with autism and other disabilities.

OrbiTouch is a completely different type of computer interface that uses two disks rather than a keyboard. Whether the user is coping with carpal tunnel syndrome, muscular issues, autism or other disabilities, orbiTouch seems to provide an easier, more effective, more attractive way to type.

The system was invented by engineers at Blue Orb, and their idea was to represent keystrokes through paired movements using the two disks. Letters appear visually, and typing becomes a pleasant and painless process. Preliminary testing with autistic kids shows a positive outcome, and a company called Project Blue Skies is now developing games based on orbiTouch to support learning and development of social skills.

According to a National Science Foundation press release, "Teachers guide the students and monitor their progress, ultimately helping the kids better communicate with their families. While the primary goal of Project Blue Skies is to help people with autism develop stronger social skills, McAlindon [the project's developer] is working with partners to start integrating standard coursework into the program."

Photo courtesy of NSF and Blue Orb