Eyegaze Technology - Is it appropriate?

The emergence of eyegaze technology is causing quite a storm among parents, teachers and therapists. It is certainly groundbreaking and is yet another "game-changer" (we seem to be using this term rather a lot these days!). We've talked about the Ipad, Iphone, slates and now eyegaze (which by the way doesn't currently work with any of the afore mentioned...yet). So what is it? How does it work and the big question - is it going to actually change and improve the way people access the computer and communication devices? Well, the answer is yes but I urge caution...
Let's start off by briefly describing what it actually is. It is a technology that allows people to control a computer or communication device with their eyes. It can be configured in many ways but basically wherever you look, the mouse-pointer will go. Hold your gaze for a moment and it will open or choose whatever you are looking at.
This technology isn't all that new, it has been around for a while, but now it really works. It has been refined and the development of software designed for touch-screens has benefitted its cause hugely. There are also some really exciting developments in the area of eyegaze devices and sensory rooms, but that is for another post! Do check this video out though for a taster - all this stuff can apparently be controlled with eyegaze now... according to a solid source!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXL_Qf_bgq4&feature=player_detailpage

So why do I urge caution? Well, firstly the equipment is expensive. I believe we have to be careful when assessing people for equipment that we can't support the on-going learning of or actually provide. It may work, but it is an expensive option. I say that because in schools for instance, professionals are running assessments with eyegaze but unable to kit out their classrooms with the devices to support their use. We need to encourage inclusive learning practices by training teachers and support staff to lesson plan around the devices and support the user in the daily use and configuration of the device. All this can of course be combated and companies such as Tobii are leading the way on this.
It is Tobii who have taken this technology forward and developed it to work more effectively with their C12 communication device and have now developed a device to work with computers.
Tobii have realised the need to provide the facility to train up users who aren't quite ready to use eyegaze as a functional communication tool or to record their class work for instance. This may be because of age or because or cognitive development.
Have a look at these videos with my good freind Hector from Tobii and you will see what I mean.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jpizA8b6PM&feature=player_detailpage

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5JIMWJUc3g&feature=player_detailpage

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdxONKQV3WM&feature=player_detailpage

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouw-tvQQZjs&feature=player_detailpage

So, to sum up, what is emerging is a groundbreaking way for people to access computers and develop their independence but along with that is the crucial understanding among developers that, although for many this type of access is intuitive, for some extra training and the software to facilitate this needs to be available.
So is it appropriate? For many, absolutely! This will offer the means to access IT, communication aids and other devices where there has been none before but for some it may not be appropriate. I think it needs careful consideration before an assessment as to how a device will be funded or provided if it is appropriate. Also over-hyping its potential before an assessment can cause huge disappointment if it works out not to be appropriate. But all in all a very exciting piece of kit!