Al.Hoffman@p0.f143.n109.z1.fidonet.org (Al Hoffman) (07/27/90)
Index Number: 9544
[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]
Hi Doug:
I have to argue about the cursor a bit. I use Screen Reader, when
set up propperly I think its the ultimate in no hands voice
output. Screen Reader is similar to JAWS with a "pointer" mode and
a "cursor" mode. The thing about the modes is the ability to
control pointer mode in a logical fashion, such as under macro
control, or whatever controlling software is used. I hardly use my
extra keypad for Screen Reader now that I set it up, and the reason
that is, is due in large part to the other mode. I don't think I
am explaining myself well at all, but it really works for some of
us. I don't know if the approach is well suited to everyone, but
for some its the best thing since sliced bread, or braille on the
lids at McDonalds!
--
Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!109!143.0!Al.Hoffman
Internet: Al.Hoffman@p0.f143.n109.z1.fidonet.orgAl.Hoffman@p0.f143.n109.z1.fidonet.org (Al Hoffman) (08/11/90)
Index Number: 9743
[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]
Hi Doug:
OK, I'm gonna try again to explain how my system works, just for
the size of it:
There is the cursor pointer, and the pointer pointer. I can set up
my system so you simply use different keys, not switch modes when
using the different types--essentially letting you have
screen-review at all times with no switch, no fancy hold down the
alt-key and snap your fingers, and then...
The true power of talking programs is the "smarts". Since the
generic "reader" package can't possiblly contain all the smarts for
each package, it must simply contain all the tools and aids to let
the user add the smarts to the basic setup--macros, scripts, etc.
Screen Reader does this admirablly with a language for programming
the basic platform. The PAL language looks a lot like C, but is a
subset designed for speech program operations--includes bitwise
compare and array variables, and much more that I haven't learned
to operate yet. Now, the next step is a fourth generation language
to write these profiles in--hmmm could be a new product as I type.
If you can write a simple C compiler, you can add this type of
power to your program, or make a different version. Of course
everybody has there own products, and yours looks really nice from
my quick demo review so far. I was a Screen Talk v 1.0 user and
remember the origins!
I know I've asked this before, but does anybody know who wrote
ListenIn, back long ago, I think the first program that did screen
monitored windows 1982--the companion program was PC-Speak, and
PC-SpeakJR. If anybody out there has a JR and wants the JR program
its yours for the asking. I'll even throw in the ListenIn program,
but you'll hate me for it, they were crude little guys indeed.
--
Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!109!143.0!Al.Hoffman
Internet: Al.Hoffman@p0.f143.n109.z1.fidonet.orgAl.Hoffman@p0.f143.n109.z1.fidonet.org (Al Hoffman) (08/12/90)
Index Number: 9761
[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]
Hi:
I live in Alexandria and work for the Internal Revenue Service.
I attended the Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School in Vinton Iowa,
from approximately 1968-77, and learned braille, mobility skills,
sports skills, but the school was rapidly becoming a dumping ground
for the multi-handicapped. I say dumping ground because in many
cases thats just what seemed to be happening. The rehab staff
there didn't appear to be able to accomplish much with many of the
students, while I as a ten year old could get the "co-residents"
with many varied disabilities and problems to accomplish lots.
Example: One student about age 9 had a brain tumor, and was
rapidly osing his sight, he also had a severe stuttering problem,
which the teachers could not resolve to anybodies satisfaction.
However, I could simply ask him to "slow down dude," and if he
didn't, I'd simply repeat the request, and after a few tries, he'd
slow-down, and could remain at the slow rate for longer periods
than he ever could with the teachers. Unfortunately he passed away
several months later, as did many of the students there.
I learned a lot of "life" there, seeing friends pass away at age
6-13 is a real "eye-opener," as you probablly understand. I think
blind schools are good for basics, but very poor for social
skills--unless they are propperly operated, so that the students
living at the school are integrated with sighted society, not as a
separate entity, but just a part. Its a difficult task, but its
not impossible.
Anyway, back to the subject line:
I have used Verbal Dos (and the newere versions), Flipper, and
others. I think you'll like Flipper more than VB, but try out
Vocal Eyes, as well--Doug seems more interested in his costumers to
me, and I don't use either program.
If you want to talk about schools, computing, whatever, you can
call me voice at 703-765-9294, or data at 703-768-2751, or work
voice at 202-535-4720. No, just because I work for IRS I don't
take money from everybody! ha ha ha.
Oh, send me a wish list you can think of that your school would
like to accomplish, or start, or whatever--I'm interested in
educational opportunities for the blind at all levels since I went
through a lot of educational experiences so far.
--
Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!109!143.0!Al.Hoffman
Internet: Al.Hoffman@p0.f143.n109.z1.fidonet.orgStew.Bowden@f6.n377.z1.fidonet.org (Stew Bowden) (08/12/90)
Index Number: 9782
[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]
Hi ann: very interesting experiences you have had. I'm afraid you are
right. Unfortunately, many schools for the blind these days are
becomming dumping grounds for students which the public schools
choose notto handle. My own opinion is that pl94-142 has desimated
schools for the blind. Also, in my typical conser vative fashion, I
honestly believe that today, we are creating a generation of wellfare
blind people. The public schools simply do not have the resources to
meet the needs of blind students, and athletically in the public
schools, if you are blind, forget it. Its just not available. I was
an intercollegeate wrestler and state champion several years. Couldnt
have done that in public school. Lets continue this. Enjoyed hearing
from you.
--
Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!377!6!Stew.Bowden
Internet: Stew.Bowden@f6.n377.z1.fidonet.org