Smart Pen – new multimodal computer control tool for graphomotorical therapy

Abstract

Numerous researches indicate that dyslexia and dysgraphia are nowadays major problems in schools. Smart Pen is a tool for supporting the therapy of developmental dyslexia, with particular regard to dysgraphia. It comprises a display monitor equipped with a high-sensitivity touchpad and specially designed writing tool equipped with pressure sensors. The paper put emphasis on issues related to the design of the device and the development of software providing a vital part of the interface.

The software allows monitoring some interface parameters that are important from the therapy point of view, such as pen grip or time taken to complete an activity being a part of an exercise. The interface designed allows interesting (play and learn) activities to be performed with kids (i.e. learning of proper handling writing tools, basic writing etc.).

Tests have been carried out to verify usability of the Smart Pen. The test results showed that children and therapists are keen on using the new tool. Furthermore, using Smart Pen it is possible to distinguish children without writing problems from those who have some motoric disruptions. A description of the tests carried out and of their results is included in the paper.