Assistive Computer Devices and Access Aids for PC
What is Assistive or Adaptive Computer Technology?
Assistive Computer Technology is any piece of equipment that is customized to make life easier for a person who has a disability.
The personal computer (PC) can be the backbone of independence for millions of individuals with sensory, physical, and learning disabilities.
Many people with disabilities face a variety of challenges in terms of providing computer input, interpreting output and reading documentation. For persons with disabilities, the keyboard, mouse, and monitor are of prime concern so adaptive hardware and software have been developed to provide alternatives.
Screen reader programs such as JAWS or HAL are designed to allow even totally blind people to use the computer. They convert the text and icons to speech so one can use a computer without needing to see the monitor.
Accessible computer equipment and PC access aids can make it easier for computer users to use word processing programs, surf the Internet, and send email, but they can also help non-computer users handle many non-computer tasks.
Any system that aids individuals who are not independent verbal communicators is known as an augmentative communication system. The system can include speech, gestures, sign language, symbols, synthesized speech, dedicated communication aids or microcomputers.
Examples of Assistive Computer Technology Include:
- Optical character recognition (OCR) software systems are used to scan printed materials directly into the PC to accommodate many types of disabilities.
- Screen readers are software programs that provide either speech or Braille output, and are commonly employed by persons who are blind or visually impaired.
- Non-assistive computer programs like electronic mail and instant messaging empower individuals with hearing-related impairments to communicate over the Internet.
- Magnification software enlarges text and graphics displayed on PC monitors. Magnification programs are widely used by persons with poor vision or who have difficulty reading.
Common keyboard input modifications include:
- Adapted keyboards,
- on-screen keyboards,
- alternative communication programs,
- voice recognition.
Voice recognition and dictation systems are powerful assistive technologies that allow persons with disabilities to control a computer and dictate documents verbally using spoken commands.
Most computer vendors support persons with disabilities by incorporating accessibility utilities into operating systems such as Microsoft Windows, Apple Macintosh, and UNIX. PCs equipped with assistive technology permit individuals to function independently at school, work, and home, and allow access to great quantities of information from diverse sources such as compact disks, networks, electronic mail, instant messaging, the World Wide Web, and other Internet resources.
Legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act in the United States and the Disabilities Discrimination Act in the United Kingdom is fostering the development of assistive technology for persons with disabilities. Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act in the United States is helping to make the World Wide Web more accessible as well.
Before a person can use a computer, she needs to get within effective proximity of the workstation. Aisles, doorways, and building entrances must be wheelchair-accessible. Other resources, such as telephones, restrooms, and reference areas, should be accessible as well. Don't overlook a simple barrier, such as a single step or a narrow doorway. Work with architectural accessibility experts to ensure physical accessibility.
Computer Assistive Devices Articles
- Assistive Computer Technology - Informational videos on assistive technology products and aids for persons with disabilities. Assistive devices are tools, products or types of equipment that help you perform tasks and activities if you have a disability, injury or are a senior.
- Types of Assistive Technology Products - MicroSoft - Assistive technology products are designed to provide additional accessibility to individuals who have physical or cognitive difficulties, impairments, and disabilities. When selecting assistive technology products, it is crucial to find products that are compatible with the computer operating system and programs on the particular computer being used.
- Rehabtool.com - Offers a variety of high-tech assistive and adaptive technology products, augmentative and alternative communication devices, computer access equipment, multilingual speech synthesis and voice recognition software.
- Assistive Technology - Also known as adaptive technology (AT) is an umbrella term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices for people with disabilities and also includes the process used in selecting, locating, and using them. AT promotes greater independence by enabling people to perform tasks that they were formerly unable to accomplish, or had great difficulty accomplishing, by providing enhancements to, or changing methods of interacting with, the technology needed to accomplish such tasks.
- Assistive Technology and Disability Accessibility Community - Provides a forum that explores the frontiers of assistive technology and to exchange ideas and experiences with other users.
