Tobii Dynavox

 Tobii Dynavox 

Today with the change in time has led the improvement especially in learning environment. There is a great transformation in the education system compared to our traditional education system which lacked inclusivity of knowledge and needs. Now if we see there is a blend of inclusive education which caters the needs of all students and enhance a meaningful learning experiences among the individuals. Assistive technology tools can be one that would support the learning of the students.

Tobii Dynavox is one of the assistive technology tool that cater the needs of the students with communication and mobility challenges which is said to be founded in 2001 by Henrik Eskilsson,John Elvesjo and Marten Skogo. Tobii is the result of a merger between companies: Tobii Technology(Swedish company specializing in eye tracking technology ) and Dynavox Systems(American Leader in speech generating devices).The official merger happened in 2014, creating what is now known as Tobii Dynavox. This device has got the features like eye tracking technology that detects and responds to the users gaze, allowing control of device without a physical touch, speech generation including voice output in multiple languages and a range of voice options, customizable communication boards, TD snap software which is designed for symbol based communication, accessible design, cloud integration which allows backups, syncing and sharing of communication setups across devices, language and literacy supporting vocabulary, grammar, sentence building and compatibility with educational software. Such features help users feel more confident, independent and included in both learning and social settings. Tobii Dynavox is the device that enables students with speech and physical impairments to express their thoughts, ideas and feelings through their eyes without having the need of the other person. One can control their computer or communicative device by making use of their eye movements. This tool help students to compose sentences, express needs and interact socially and academically where they can communicate with teachers and peers. Not only that but also with customizable pages and vocabulary sets, one can use to answer questions, participate in group work and complete class assignments. Furthermore, it empowers students with speech and mobility impairments to communicate and interact more independently, it also gives voice for those who cannot use their hands or speak.

Teachers can introduce this assistive technology tool called “Tobii Dynavox” into the classroom by first identifying the students with such needs which can be helped by this tool. Removing the learning barriers teachers can design a lesson plans including the devices so that for such group of students it makes learning engaging and meaningful. For the tool to be effective both the teacher and the students need to undergo a training based on the tools. While it can be helpful it has also got concerns arising with it. This device can be costly where by some of the schools would not have enough budget to afford it and might be hard for the students foe those who are not familiar with the tool. Another concern can be teachers readiness where a studies shows that assistive technology tool is highly dependent on the support provided by the teachers. Therefore, lack of adequate knowledge and specialist about it can hinder the effective usage in the school. 

 Research underscores the significance of Assistive technology tool in inclusive education. According to (David R. Beukelman, 2013) states that devices like Tobii Dynavox have shown a positive impact on language development and social Interaction foe children with severe communication needs. Moreover, a study by (McNaughty, 2015) emphasizes that assistive technology tools enhance academic achievement and social integration. This findings validate potential of Tobii Dynavox as a powerful learning aid in inclusive environments. Their work suggests that students are able to perform well in the classroom similar like other students. Tobii Dynavox tool can be the most appropriate tool that can be used in the classroom for the students with the communicative needs when speech and writing cannot be performed by one. Hence, for the student with a nonverbal and has motor impairments Tobii Dynavox can provide a flexibility to equally participate in the class where they can use their eyes to write ,read ,respond to questions and even create presentations . Existence of such devices encourages teachers to think more inclusively to enhance effective learning and cater the needs of various groups of students. Teachers have the most vital responsibility of ensuring that every student, regardless of their ability, feels valued and supported. They must create a welcoming environments that respects diversity and promotes equal participation. It is also their role to foster positive and social interaction among students, promote empathy and build a classroom culture where everyone is encouraged to succeed.