Free Resources from the Net for EVERY Learner

I’m writing again about a resource that has been around for a few months.  Once again, it is a resource that targets a specific audience while being useful for a much wider group of learners.

ZAC Browser is a web browser that has been designed specifically for children with autism and autism spectrum disorders, but it is a browser with great potential for other early learners as well.

ZAC Browser is a real browser (you must be online to use it) with a carefully prescribed and limited online environment.  Upon opening the browser, the user is presented with options (represented by visual icons) for movies, games, music, and stories.  Each of these sections contain links to websites with selected  quality video clips and activities.

External links on the linked websites are not active, so the user cannot get out into the wider web. ZAC goes a step further by making it impossible (or very difficult) for the user to switch to other applications on the computer.  The only way of closing ZAC and getting to other programs is by using a keyboard shortcut.

ZAC’s creators have attempted to facilitate interactive freedom within a confined space on the internet.  There has been a deliberate effort to link to activities  “…that cater specifically to kids who display the characteristics of autism spectrum disorders, like impairments in social interaction, impairments in communication, restricted interests and repetitive behavior.”  In my experience there are plenty of children,without a dignosis on the autism spectrum who would benefit greatly from independent access to the same activities.

Check out the video embedded below for a one-minute overview of the ZAC Browser.