About the AssistiveWare Newsletter

This is a newsletter for users, written, edited and designed by users of the AssistiveWare software. With this newsletter we want to explore the frontiers of assistive technology, provide a platform to share experiences, and also to inspire people of all abilities (as the Americans so nicely phrase it) to use the opportunities offered by Mac OS X to the fullest. Assistive technology can be so much more than a closed-box solution for a specific task. There is a whole world of possibilities out there and no reason why, say a switch user, should not use Apple’s iChat or edit videos with iMovie just like “the rest of us”.

You will not find sales pitches in this newsletter nor the latest info about our products. Instead, you will find inspiring articles about computer access, time and effort saving hardware and software, and how people with disabilities use their Macs in school, for work, to create art, or just for fun.

If you have a story to share send an email to editor@assistiveware.com. We in particular welcome contributions by users, but educators, parents, and AT specialists are also invited. You can also use that email address to provide supportive or critical feedback.

Issue 1, Fall/Winter 2005

In this issue (download in US Letter format or A4 format), Bill Lee shares his experience as a Technology Director working with a student in need of a fresh approach to AT. Video editing takes center stage as Jean-Marc Pepin talks about his exciting hobby. Excellent games for new switch users are covered in “Let the Games Begin”, the first installment of a permanent column by game guru, Mike Phillips. Walter Pfrommer gives an informative comparison of various head mice on the market. Finally, Joe Barnick chronicles the pivotal role the Macintosh has in his life, something that many disabled Mac users can relate to.

Issue 2, Summer/Fall 2006

In this issue (download in US Letter format or A4 format), Graphic designer Leigh-Anne Tompkins discusses her fascinating work and extraordinary way of accessing her Mac. Dutch photographer and graphic designer, Giesbert Nijhuis, ponders technical and philosophical questions. Awesome Aussie Ricky Buchanan delivers an inspiring message that people of all abilities can learn from. The man with the golden thumb, Mike Phillips, serves up a switch user’s guide to the Mac’s #1 online role playing game: World of Warcraft. David Reuss reflects on his son’s progress and shows that parents of disabled children are often their greatest advocates. Finally, Walter Pfrommer offers invaluable information on using a head tracking device outdoors.

Issue 3, Winter/Spring 2007

In this issue (download in US Letter format or A4 format), editor-in-chief Joe Barnick considers the role of communication in his life and how new technology makes a difference. Translator and Mac addict, Laétitia Rebord, proves that people with disabilities can live fulfilling and creative lives. Learn what’s possible with SwitchXS and LayoutKitchen as Marie-France Bru shares her special method for typing. Finally, ejecting a CD has never been easier thanks to Ricky Buchanan’s helpful tips.

Issue 4, Vision Accessibility Special Edition, 2008

In this issue (download in US Letter format or A4 format), editor-in-chief Joe Barnick looks at how the Mac has suddenly become a serious player in the vision access solutions market. Translator Anne Robertson explains how she finds AssistiveWare’s VisioVoice an indispensable ally in work and play. Cheryl Homiak illustrates how VisioVoice sweetens accessibility on the Mac. Ricky Buchanan reveals the solution to her complex accessibility problems. Finally, technology advisor David Poehlman presents an overview of VoiceOver and its position in the screen reader market.