David Banes, Mr, Mada (Qatar Assistive Technology Center)
Disability Area: Topic Area:
Length of Session (in hours): 1-hr
Format: Lecture
Expertise Level: All Levels
Type of session: Not provided
Summary of Session
This presentation will discuss the launching of an online framework designed to aid the development and use of free and open source tools to support multicultural situations in an online world of communication, learning and business.
Abstract
This presentation discusses the research undertaken and challenges met when localising open source software against the background of increasing use of online applications for learning and business (such as MOOCs, VLEs and online Government information) and a lack of awareness around the use of assistive technologies. It shows how a framework can be created, based on an inclusive design process that results in a set of criteria to support the development of this type of technology in other linguistic settings and cultures. The resulting developments of browser based toolbars and use of portable software, wikis and blogs shows how much can be achieved with accessible technologies.
Kepoints
Adapting technologies to fit other cultures and languages
Use of free and open source applications
Browser based assistive technologies
Speaker Bio(s)
E.A. Draffan
E.A. Draffan is a Speech and Language Therapist who specialises in the use of assistive technology and accessibility. She has worked with those who have communication and written language difficulties in hospitals, schools and universities. She has recently been working on open source projects involving the Arabic language.
David Banes
David Banes is CEO of the Mada Center, Qatar Assistive Technology and Accessibility Center based in Doha in the state of Qatar. He has worked in Doha for the past two years, firstly as Deputy CEO and more recently as CEO and has been charged with developing services to ensure that people with a disability in Qatar are digitally included. Prior to taking up his post in Qatar, he worked as a teacher of people with special needs and principal of a school before working in the realm of digital Inclusion in the UK and Europe as Director of Operations and Development for a UK NGO. He writes regularly in the area and was recently featured on Anthony Salcitos “Global leaders in Education”