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Assistive Technology for Computer Access

Assistive Technology for Computer Access . Presented by Malissa John & Kareem Cooper. What is Assistive Technology ?.

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Assistive Technology for Computer Access

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  1. Assistive Technology for Computer Access Presented by Malissa John & Kareem Cooper

  2. What is Assistive Technology ? An assistive technology or AT is any item, piece of equipment, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of a child with a disability. AT devices may be categorized as low technology, or high technology (LD Online, 2001)

  3. Categories of AT Assistive technology can be divided into three main categories: low – tech, mid – tech and high – tech

  4. Low Tech Low Tech—Low tech devices can be defined as tools with no electronic parts or batteries that can allow persons with disabilities to perform difficult tasks with more ease. These tools are cost effective, easy to use, less complicated and more efficient in its application.

  5. Mid Tech Mid Tech—Mid Tech devices are in between high-tech and low-tech. These use simple electronics, that may be battery operated, and relatively simple to use. These devices require less training to use and are not as costly to obtain than their high tech counterparts.

  6. High Tech High Tech—high-tech' devices are relatively expensive devices that contain microcomputer components. It includes but not limited to, sophisticated communication and computer control systems for storage and retrieval of information. Considerable specialist training and support will be necessary to use such a device.

  7. AT in Terms of Computer Access When considering assistive technologies for computer access, it is good practice to adhere to the following: · Positioning of student and equipment · Operating System Built in Accessibility Features · Standard Keyboard Adaptations · Standard Mouse Adaptations · Rate Enhancement · Alternative Keyboard · Mouse Alternatives · Speech Recognition · Eye Gaze · Morse Code · Switch Access · Characteristics of Switches · Switch Interface · Mounting · Switch Accessible Software

  8. Examples of Low Tech Devices Large Print labels make a standard keyboard more accessible for visually impaired individuals with large print or Braille keyboard labels. The characters on the large print labels are .about 3 times larger than standard keyboard characters.. Each set includes all the keys used on a standard Windows keyboard.

  9. Examples of Low Tech Devices Mousing Platforms allows users to mouse in greater comfort with less risk of contact stress on the nerves in the lower hand and wrist. The Mousing Platform’s soft gel protects the wrist and hand from otherwise contacting a harder work surface.

  10. Examples of Low Tech Devices A switch can be used with a variety of computer-switch interfaces to work as single or multiple keys or mouse functions (click, double click, drag). When considering which switch to use it is essential that the user is positioned properly in order to exert maximum control over the switch, and that the switch used should capitalize on their most reliable and consistent movement.

  11. Examples of Mid Tech Devices Countdown timers can be accessed via smart phones and online software programs. The timer can be used to keep student on task while accessing the computer. The timer works well with autistic students and ADHD students in particular to facilitate with order of tasks.

  12. Examples of Mid Tech Devices Scanning Software. A scan is comprised of equivalent key and mouse choices that appear on the screen when a software program is running. The student goes through (scans) the various commands and then activates a switch to make a choice.

  13. Examples of Mid Tech Devices Camera Mouse is a program that allows you to control the mouse pointer on a Windows computer just by moving your head. Clicking can be done by making the mouse pointer dwell over a spot on the screen. Individuals with Cerebral Palsy, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, ALS, Multiple Sclerosis, Traumatic Brain Injury, various neurological disorders use this program to run all types of software.

  14. Examples of High Tech Devices Voice recognition soft ware is a computer application that lets people control a computer by speaking to it. In other words, rather than using a keyboard to communicate with the computer, the user speaks commands into a microphone (usually on a headset) that is connected to a computer.

  15. Examples of High Tech Devices An interactive whiteboard is a large interactive display that connects to a computer. Where a projector projects the computer's desktop onto the board's surface where users control the computer using a pen, finger, stylus pen , or other device. The board can be mounted to a wall or floor stand for use.

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