Koko's Talking Teletype (1977-79)

In the book, The Education of Koko, by Dr. Penny Patterson and Eugene Linden, Penny says:
“Then, some mornings, she sits on a chair before an electric teletype keyboard in the kitchen for a thirty-minute lesson in the production of English. Gorillas cannot generate the sounds necessary to speak, but through this Auditory Language keyboard, which is linked to a voice synthesizer, we have given Koko a device that enables her to talk as well as generate signs, Other morning we videotape or audiotape or work with flashcards."
The following video clip gives you a sense of how a "talking teletype" helped Koko vocalize her words. When she was older, Apple Computer gave her an updated device - one of the first touch-screen computers.
However, generally speaking, Koko preferred to use Sign Language over a keyboard ...

[@Ganpignanus]

adorable and so intelligent. also self aware - she brushes the fallen cereal off her to stay presentable. fascinating to watch.

[@familyguyfanboy2]

I love koko, she is supporting all the apes around the world today

[@aqhasassy]

Imagine a “work” day of joy. 💖

[@Cissi2009]

I just love Koko ❤

[@raea3588]

Koko is so smart 🥰And before we had tablets too which may have been easier for her larger hands. She gives me so much joy! Hugs my dear gorilla in Heaven 🦍😘