Technology Tuesday

Welcome to “Technology Tuesday.” The SmartHomes team has moved fully into the second phase of our project, where we are taking technology out of the SmartHomes and getting it in other settings and into the hands of other clients beyond just those living in the homes. We want to share those stories with you, hence the new feature. We hope these stories will be short and easy to read insights into how technology is changing the lives of everyone served by Imagine!, not just those living in the SmartHome.

Our newest group educational activity is an activity called “Pirate’s Cove.” It’s a computer pirate-themed game derived from Hangman, and can be played by one to eight players. Imagine!’s own tech superstar Chris Baumgart built the game adapting communication device software. This game teaches players (either players who use a communication device, or those who do not) to practice skills that include, but are not limited to, turn-taking, letter recognition, word composition, and peer socialization. So far, this activity has been implemented at both the Bob and Judy Charles SmartHome and the Charles Family SmartHome, and everyone who has participated so far has indicated that it’s a lot of fun to play. Thanks to all the staff members at both SmartHomes for facilitating these activities!