Using a game controller for text entry to address abilities and disabilities specific to persons with neuromuscular diseases

Abstract

This paper proposes a poster about an alternative text entry method, based on a commercially available game controller as input device, as well as a demo of the accompanying software application. The system was originally intended for a particular gentleman with the neuromuscular disease Friedreich's Ataxia (FA), who asked us to help him - by developing an optimal keyboard replacement for him - already several years ago. Our work focused on his impressions in an initial case study testing this newest attempt. Taking the tester's comments into account, the outcome seems to be rather promising in meeting his needs, and it appears very probable that the system could be of help for anyone with a similar condition.