Windows Vista Assistive Technologies

Microsoft Windows Vista provides several applications which assist users who may not be physically able to control the computer in traditional methods. These technologies may be extremely useful for people who are physically, and especially hearing impaired. Examples of these applications include, but are not limited to; speech recognition, Text/visual alternatives for sounds, and/or using the computer without a mouse or keyboard.


Speech Recognition:

Windows Vista Speech recognition could potentially be used for a number of purposes. Specifically, it could be used for someone who is physically handicapped, and has trouble using a keyboard when using the computer. For example, someone with carpel tunnel could avoid wrist strain by dictating their text, rather than typing. The screen shot below captures the process of calibrating the computer for voice recognition.


Text/Visual Alternatives for Sound

This assistive technology feature for Windows Vista is especially accommodating for people who are hearing impaired. Rather than hearing system tones which the computer produces to alert the user of important information; this application alerts the user visually. The specific alerts can also be customized to appear in a variety of ways which is most comfortable for the user. The screen shot below is set-up screen for customizing textual alerts.



Using the Computer Without a Mouse or Keyboard

There may be a number of reasons why someone might need to use the computer without a mouse or keyboard. This feature is incredibly helpful for people with physical disabilities who are otherwise unable to operate a computer in traditional keyboard and mouse fashion. This assistive aspect of Windows Vista would be helpful for anyone who could dictate commands to the computer. This technology could also be used with touchscreen monitors to greatly enhance the relationship between the disabled user and the computer. The screen shot below illustrates the process by which to enable the computer to operate properly without a keyboard or mouse.

Effects of various forms of exercise on heart rate

PART 1:

During this data collection activity, I used a heart rate monitor to record changes in my heart rate while participating in various forms of physical activity. Participants in this activity consisted of Dr. Leftwich and myself. Dr. Leftwich configured the heart rate monitor hardware, while I performed exercise.

First, we recorded my resting heart rate for one minute, to provide a baseline comparison to that of physical activity. Next, my heart rate was recorded while running in place for one minute. Lastly, we recorded my heart rare while doing jumping jacks for one minute.


Part 2:

The graph at the top of the page illustrates variance in my heart rate during different states of physical activity. This graph is an effective way to display and analyze this type of data, because it compares heart rate with time. When time is involved, line graphs are oftentimes the most effective method by which to display chronological data. The graph also adequately compares the various forms of exercise to one another, by displaying all the data on the same plot. Although multiple trials could be conducted to increase accuracy, the format in which the information is displayed provides an adequate means by which almost anyone could quickly analyze the data.


Part 3:

I enjoyed how this activity provided a hands-on experience with technical data collection. Students had the ability to get up and move interact, rather than just sitting at a computer station. It also introduced students to a number of high tech gadgets which we would most likely not be exposed to otherwise. Teachers could appreciate this activity, because it motivates their students to get out of their seats and physically participate in the class activity. It also provides a learning enhancement, because students got the chance to work with technical hardware which is of direct relevance to their specific field/interests.

Using heart rate monitors in a physical education settings is an ideal way to collect data from students. Not only can exercise patterns be recorded, but they can be analyzed and manipulated by P.E. students. This would increase awareness of their own health, and teach them how to adequately integrate technology into a structured fitness program.

Furthermore, while this activity provided significant enhancement to the standard classroom setting, it may also have limitations. For example, if someone was physically handicapped, they may not be able to participate. Students may also become frustrated if they can't physically perform as well as others, and/or bullying could occur.

Overall, this was an interesting activity, because it simulated several methods in which technology can be used for data collection. This activity was effective; because it provided a real-world experience, where data was physically collected, and then translated/interpreted via computers.

Inspire Data - Graphing Exercise

This graph enables the viewer to analyze and explore rainfall totals of different cities in the U.S. This graph, and line graphs of this type would help one compare the climates of cities in various geographic locations. With this information, the viewer could make interpretations such as the type of climate, vegetation, and even what species of animals may inhabit that area.

In-class workout #6 - www.kidshealth.org

Kidshealth.org is the most-visited site on the Web for information about health, behavior, and development from before birth through the teen years. Information is presented on the site in such a way which is free from technical "doctor's speak," and thus easily comprehended by children and parents. This excellent content exploration resource is a reference tool which caters to kids of multiple age groups about a variety of topics.

For example, I navigated through the kids page, to the "cooking and recipes" tab. This promotes healthy eating, by teaching kids how to manage a nutritious diet on their own. It also promotes independent behavior by allowing kids to make food without adults (ie: Awesome applesauce).

Physical Education standard 7.6.1 - Macarena

The Physical Education standard 7.6.1 requires students to demonstrate movement patterns that convey various emotions. In order to meet this requirement, students will be exposed to a variety of dance moves. Specifically, I think that demonstrating and teaching "The Macarena" would be a great way to stimulate student participation with dance. Rather than practicing traditional forms of dance that many students are not interested in, the Macarena would allow them to express their emotions in a fun, exciting way.

In order to teach the Macarena, I would supply them videos of the dance. Obtained through YouTube, the dance can be viewed at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlzwuFkn88U

The Macarena can also be interpreted textually at: http://www.pecentral.org/LessonIdeas/ViewLesson.asp?ID=1304

Specifically, I would start by showing my students the YouTube videos. Performing the Macarena is typically fairly easy to do after watching a proper demonstration. If the demonstrations are ineffective for some students, I would also direct them toward the text-based directions for further practice.

In conclusion, the Macarena is an effective method by which to fulfill state standard 7.6.1, because it allows students to express their emotions through dance. The Macarena is also a very adaptive dance; personal movements can be mixed in to further enhance the dance, without the tempo of the dance steps being altered. Teaching dances that students enjoy doing is a great way to motivate them to dance more!

When Hi-Tech P.E. Goes Wrong

A Day at The Racetrack