Student Brian is moving closer to the day when he might ‘speak’ using eye-controlled technology.
While Brian doesn’t use speech to communicate, he’s become adept at using the movement in his face to make himself understood. As Brian’s dad, Danny says, ‘Brian uses symbols and eye pointing, which he carries out very well indeed.”
Brian’s zest for life means that limited mobility doesn’t stop him pushing boundaries with all his activities. Brian now owns his own personal Eye Gaze, a device which lets the user control what happens on screen using just their eyes.
Ultimately, someone using an Eye Gaze can select words and form sentences which the device then reads out loud.
“Brian’s aim is to hopefully, fingers crossed, speak through the device and communicate effectively with everyone,” says Danny.
Brian’s working daily on Parity’s Eye Gaze, building up his skills using interactive learning games, the internet and word books.
Brian’s favourite game of ‘Target’ has increased the speed at which he can shift and focus his gaze. He’s gone from completing a round in 1 minute 20 seconds to finishing in just 29 seconds.
While Brian already possesses excellent communication skills, using the Eye Gaze would significantly expand the ways that he can express what he wants to say.
In the meantime, the Eye Gaze could have an impact on another activity Brian loves: running quizzes at Parity. He helps keep score and signals red cards – something he especially enjoys doing – when participants break the rules.
Parity staff will continue to celebrate every milestone in Brian’s progress as he works towards his ultimate goal.