Personalized computer access for people with severe motor disabilities asterics, flipmouse and the two-level personalization software engineering method

Abstract

As capabilities, preferences and needs of people with disabilities are unique, personalization of ICT-based Assistive Technology (AT) tools is a key factor for their applicability. We developed a set of open source tools for Component-Based Engineering which allows an efficient prototyping, parameterization and application of user-driven AT. These tools include the AsTeRICS framework for creation of ATapplications from functional components via visual programming and the FlipMouse universal input system for finger- or mouth control of computers, tablets and smart phones. We present a conceptual framework for a user-centered Two-Level Personalization of AT which consists of a development phase, where a solution is modeled and refined in cooperation with a client, and a generalization phase to make this solution configurable via specific parameters which can be tuned when supporting other users in comparable contexts. Experience from customization is then used to improve more generic AT-solution-templates. This fosters a fast and cost-effective development of tailored support for people with disabilities. In this paper we describe in detail the tools and workflows employed. We present a single-subject study based on Participatory Action Research, involving a client with multiple sclerosis, and we demonstrate the Two-Level Personalization for the creation and evaluation of tailored applications for this client.