New technology gives voice to disabled

Some University at Buffalo students are taking their assignment to a whole new level, and making a difference in the lives of the disabled.

UB students are visiting the Center for Handicapped Children Learning Center to brainstorm ideas for their next class project.

Professor Michael Buckley (UB Computer Science and Engineering) said, "The number of project ideas just come."

Every semester students meet the children and develop new technology to fit their needs.

Professor Buckley said, "I don't have to motivate them. They come here and see the good work that can be done and they do it."

CHC Learning Center Director Nancy Godson said, "It's a gift really."

"For the first time, we're having software and hardware designed specifically for our students."

One of the most successful projects?

"I want to go to sleep."

The UB Talker - a piece of technology created by students, that gives a voice to children and adults with disabilities.

UB Student Eric Nagler said, "When you walk into these places and you see them, it's like 'wow, I actually made that and this person's life is positively affected by it.'"

Projects like the UB Talker aren't just shelved after the students have created them. UB licensed it. It's available though health insurance.

So now as many as 40 people around the country are using the device.

Now even Microsoft is involved. It's providing grant money and equipment to the UB program because it knows the projects have great potential.

Gus Weber (Microsoft) said, "Some of the work the students are doing, this is the first time we've seen that type of work happen, so the possibilities are really endless."

The UB students are not just working for an "A," they're working to improve the quality for life for children with special needs.