Assistive Technology used for Computer Access
Students with disabilities or learning impairments may need or want to use a computer. However they face issues when using a computer that a person without disabilites would not normally face. For example, students with vision impairments may find it difficult to read the text written on the screen of the computer. Or if a student is not able to use the keyboard, a teacher can modify the computer system to help the student use the computer to it's potential. If the student still cannot use the computer the teacher and school can explore other options to help the child access and use the computer as any other student would. It is important to look through the computer settings and see what software is already built into the computer before purchasing software.
Low tech devices: Magnification function on computers
On most computers, laptops, and tablets within the settings a user can adjust the magnification of the screen. If a student has a visual impairment a teacher or parent can switch the magnification until the child can see the screen clearly and read the text without an issue. This simple change of setting can be the difference between a child being able to use a computer or not.
Low tech devices: Toggle, Sticky, and Filter Keys
These settings on a laptop or computer are used mainly for students with cognitive or physical disabilities. They enable students to use the computer keyboard at their own pace and alerts them when they have changed a setting. If a student or teacher switches on the Sticky Keys function, the user of the computer can press keyboard short cuts one at a time instead of all at once. When most computers turn on , it asks the user to press the buttons "CTRL" , "ALT", and "DEL" simultaneously. If a student has a physical disability that prevents them from accomplishing this they would not be able to access the computer.
If a student or teacher turned on the Toggle Keys function, the computer would then alert the user whenever they turned on either CAPS LOCK, NUM LOCK, or SCROLL LOCK. Many times when using a computer people do not realize when they turn these functions on; when this setting is turned on there is a noise that plays so the user can make sure they have not made a mistake. Finally, if a student or teacher turns on the Filter Keys function, the computer will then ignore or decelerate multiple keystrokes and self adjust the rate of repitition. So, if a student has trouble using the keyboard and is unsure of the proper way to type the computer will adjust what they have typed for them.
If a student or teacher turned on the Toggle Keys function, the computer would then alert the user whenever they turned on either CAPS LOCK, NUM LOCK, or SCROLL LOCK. Many times when using a computer people do not realize when they turn these functions on; when this setting is turned on there is a noise that plays so the user can make sure they have not made a mistake. Finally, if a student or teacher turns on the Filter Keys function, the computer will then ignore or decelerate multiple keystrokes and self adjust the rate of repitition. So, if a student has trouble using the keyboard and is unsure of the proper way to type the computer will adjust what they have typed for them.
High tech devices: Eye Gaze / Eye tracking
If the student is completely unable to use a keyboard they may be able to use an Eye gaze or Eye tracking system. This system tracks the user's eye movement and relays that onto it's screen. The user can navigate through the screen and computer just as any other person would by using their eyes as a mouse. This system takes away the barriers of using a mouse so a person with a serious physical disability can access a computer without any issues or problems.
High tech device: One handed keyboard
Some student may only be able to use or type with one of their hands. This keyboard requires training but allows children to type on a computer just as their peers would. The keyboard can be purchased for either the left or right hand and can be used on any computer system.
(Dell, Assistive technology in the classroom: enhancing the school experiences of students with disabilities, 2012)
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