Technology makes everyone’s lives easier, including the lives of those with disabilities. As a person with cerebral palsy in 2016, my life is probably much easier than a person with a person with cerebral palsy (which affects my right arm and right leg) a couple decades ago. Not only that, but more and more technology is coming out that will improve my quality of life in the decades to come. Here are some pieces of technology that will make my adult life easier.
Hover camera This camera is controlled by an app and allows a person to get steady video without having to set up a tripod or bulky camera. The camera "hovers" around, similar to a drone, and can even be set to follow a certain person around. It also allows a person to be able to take clear photos without adjusting all the settings of a DSLR.
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As much as I hate to admit it, a large part of my decision to pursue print journalism instead of broadcast journalism was there seemed to be many more pain-in-the-butt disability accommodations needed with broadcast (mainly setting up and using cameras.) Don’t get me wrong, another part of my decision to pursue print was that I’ve always been naturally more of an article writer. Still, it’s nice to think that future generations of disabled journalism students may hardly have to take their disabilities into account if they choose to pursue broadcast journalism with technology such as the hover camera.
Self-driving cars As a journalist, I am expected to be able to drive to various places in order to report what is going on(unless public transportation is available or my entire beat is within walking distance.) This has made it more difficult for me to be able to find a job. In addition, not being able to drive has limited other aspects of my life as well, such as social (it’s more difficult to make plans with friends when I cannot find a ride) and economic(I can only buy groceries at stores within walking distance.) Thankfully, according to IEEE Spectrum, an engineering magazine, half of all new vehicles will be autonomous by 2032.
Dragon NaturallySpeaking This voice dictation software has existed since the late 90s, but has vastly improved over the last 20 years in accuracy and ease of use. It would allow me to type faster and more easily if I chose to use it. My sixth grade teacher was the one who first recommended the software to me in order to more effectively write papers in middle school, but 10 years ago the technology wasn’t as effective as today and my mom and I were not as familiar with voice recognition software. Recently, my case worker at Ohio Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation recommended it as an accommodation for me as a journalist. It may increase my efficiency as a journalist, but I am used to processing information by writing or typing. However, if future versions of Dragon are able to recognize voices other than one’s own, the software could greatly assist my ability to transcribe interviews more quickly.
Roomba This technology already exists, but it is still technology that will help me in the future when I own my own home. No need to deal with the plug and wire of a traditional vacuum cleaner, no extra need to walk around. Roomba, frankly, would practically do all the vacuum work for me. The Roomba 980 can be started, stopped and monitored with an app.
