[nfbwatlk] Perkins Braillers

[David Andrews]

I have two, one at work, and one at home.  At work I use it for quick 
notes, doing math when I can't find my calculator, and making 
outlines for presentations when I speak from Braille notes.  At home 
I use it for notes,  labeling, and bill paying process and notes.

Dave

At 11:38 AM 9/13/2010, you wrote:
>I'm writing to ask what may seem to be an absurd question.
>
>Is the Perkins Brailler still a useful piece of equipment?
>
>The Perkins is obviously used by blind people who don't have access to
>advanced Braille technology, but I'm particularly interested in the opinions
>of those who use computer assisted Braille.
>
>Though I have a Braille Lite and an embosser, I wouldn't want to give up my
>Perkins. Its role has changed for me over the years, but I still find it
>useful.
>
>The question has arisen because of an accommodation assessment I just read.
>The person doing the assessment described the Perkins as "akin to a 1950's
>Underwood." He clearly meant to indicate contempt for such an antiquated
>piece of machinery.
>
>Perhaps I'm merely demonstrating my advanced age and Luddite tendencies, but
>I cringe at the "If it don't have a computer chip, it ain't no good,"
>mentality.
>
>I would like to compile a list of ways in which tech savvy blind people
>still use the Perkins, as well as reasons why people have stopped using it.
>
>We're all familiar with "experts" who denigrate the slate and stylus. We've
>done a very good job of countering their arguments, though the "experts"
>still aren't listening very well. I believe it may be time for us to pull
>together information and information on best practice once again. If I'm
>right in believing the Perkins is still a useful tool, technology
>consultants need to know it in detail. If I'm wrong, then it's time for me
>to change my Luddite ways and "get with the program."
>Please e-mail me at gabias at telus.net with your views.
>
>Mary Ellen Gabias

                         David Andrews:  dandrews at visi.com
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