| abstract | - You can use the box below to create new pages for this mini-wiki. preload=Dyslexic handheld computer/preload editintro=Dyslexic handheld computer/editintro width=25 This is the wiki for Dyslexia tool: a handheld computer for dyslexic learners. The mission of this association is to develop a handheld computer with the most effective and up to date ICT tools for dyslexic children. This will be a computer designed from conception, for dyslexic learners, with the collaboration of the target users, and the large community of experts that has evolved to meet their special needs. Computers can be uniquely effective in helping dyslexic learners surmount their difficulties in reading and writing. Dyslexic learners have a demonstrable need for ubiquitous computer access. (Read more: Need for an ubiquitous computer for dyslexic learners). Laptops installed with programs to help with reading, comprehending and writing text, can be carried from class to class, and help the dyslexic student keep up in all subjects. In recognition of this, the UK exempts from VAT taxes, laptops equipped with programs for dyslexics. This organization applauds all initiatives to increase the access of dyslexic students to PCs and laptops. However, we believe that handheld computers promise a more satisfying ubiquitous solution for dyslexic students than laptops, as they are smaller, lighter, have longer battery lives, are less expensive, less fragile, and turn “instantly on.” They are altogether less obtrusive in and out of the school classroom. See Advantages of handhelds over PC/laptops Many children already carry handhelds, in the form of gameboys, mobile telephones, MP3 players, and the like. As these proliferate in the lives of our children, we feel an urgent need for an alternative handheld: one that holds out the promise of play, as handhelds do, but that primarily serves an educational function. We believe that it is time for a not-for-profit to manufacture this educational handheld. See The need for and advantages of a non-profit initiative We are taking as a model, the non-profit One Laptop per Child initiative, launched by the MIT Media Lab, to develop a $100 laptop. (Read more at: ). We don't need to re-invent the wheel. The hardware, software and content already exist. Our effort will concentrate on bringing it all together into one instant-on device, that promises the out-of-package ease of use of popular gaming toys. We have set up this Wiki to invite the collaboration of all those interested in the success of this project.
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