Front Page   

A learning device of the future

Our Staff Reporter

NUMBERED ALPHABETS: A simple Braille version developed by Vidya Vrikshah is gaining popularity. — Photo: N. Sridharan

CHENNAI: A cube with the universal Braille dot matrix could well be the language learning device for thousands of visually challenged students.

The Vasantha Braille Cube, developed by Vidya Vrikshah, as part of a national initiative, is gaining acceptance as a simple and easy-to-use tool. Over 200 blind schools in the country have sought supply of the cube in large quantity. Braille continues to be the bedrock of primary literacy.

Enhances creativity

By espousing learning by touch, this tool not only enhances cognitive ability but also stokes the creative process in children.

The cube has dots in different positions on the six sides. This allows a maximum of 63 possible dot patterns, enough to represent all letters of any alphabet, says N. Krishnaswamy, chairman, Vidya Vrikshah.

A ready reckoner chart containing the letters and their corresponding Braille dot patterns help anyone to learn to use the cube in less than an hour.

Universal Braille Kit

The organisation has also developed a comprehensive Universal Braille Kit, including the Natesan Block, which enables the user to read words, an abacus and a geometry set.

Next in line is the Vikas Composer, which will equip the blind to read sentences. The organisation's collaboration with the IIT-Madras has produced a speech-enabled software for multi-lingual applications.

Holistic programme

The National Initiative for the Blind, formulated by the organisation in 2003, envisages a holistic programme, including education, empowerment and employment.

It aims to introduce the Braille version in all schools and colleges so that the blind can get educated in the mainstream.

Vidya Vrikshah can be reached at 24414741.

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Stories in this Section

Recruitment based on merit: Pranab
Culling of birds continues in two States
Show-cause notice issued
IT institute may come up in Chennai
A learning device of the future
Final order in Best Bakery case put off
Sensex gains 89 points
Five-word verdict
Scores even at the end of Lavalin debate
All accused acquitted in Jessica Lal murder case
Corporation begins efforts to implement Pilloor second phase
State to press for classical language status for Telugu
Five labourers killed as wall of sump collapses
Sealed tender seals ambitious bidder's fate
12 integrated townships to come up in State
Rockets, mines found in Maoist dumps
Now truth to be a valid defence in contempt cases
Diarrhoea outbreak in village near Madurai
Permits to be granted for 2,000 more mini buses soon
Comprehensive plan soon to make higher education affordable
Egg distribution in schools suspended
`Award was declined'
Strike threat
Gawli denied bail

Copyright © 2006, The Hindu. Republication or redissemination of the contents of this screen are expressly prohibited without the written consent of The Hindu