assistive technology facts

Assistive Technologyf a c t s

COMPUTER ACCESSWhat is assistive technology? Assistive technology, or AT, is any tool thatallows individuals with disabilities to usetheir own unique abilities to reach theirgoals. AT can range from low-cost toolssuch as a jar opener to more complexdevices such as a power wheelchair or com-munication aid.

Infants, children, adults, and older personswith any type of disability can be aided bythe use of AT.

What is computer access assistive tech-nology?This type of AT device improves access tocomputers by facilitating input or enhanc-ing output. Input interfaces are devices orsoftware systems that provide an alternatemeans to control the computer. Outputdevices provide alternate access to informa-tion available from the monitor or printer.

Who is able to benefit from computeraccess devices?A computer can provide access to socialinteraction, shopping, activities, and infor-mation.

This category of AT will benefit anyonewho has difficulty interacting with a com-puter because of sensory, motor, or cogni-tive limitations.

Where can I purchase computer accessequipment?Computer access technology can be pur-

chased through electronics and computerstores as well as through companies thatspecialize in this type of technology.

While it may be tempting to select an ATdevice from a catalog or TV commercial,this is unwise. It is important to find adevice with features that match the user’sneeds and this can only be done with thehelp of a professional with sufficientexpertise. Following an evaluation with aspecialist, it is likely that s/he will recom-mend one or more devices for trial usebefore a final recommendation is made.

Can I use computer assistive technologywith my home computer or do I need topurchase a special computer?Computers equipped with MicrosoftWindows or Mac OS X operating systemshave many access features built into thesoftware. Computers can also be enhancedwith specialized hardware and/or softwarethat accommodates a user’s particularneeds.

What kinds of needs can be accommo-dated with computer access technolo-gies?For those with visual limitations, access canbe made possible by hardware- or software-based screen magnification, by screenread-ing devices that convert visual informationon the monitor into speech output, or bydevices that convert information intoBraille. Those who have difficulty withinput using the keyboard and mouse have a

I do notfear com-puters. Ifear lackof them.

- IsaacAsimov

vast number of options available to them:enlarged or miniaturized keyboards, recon-figured keyboards, modified mice, track-balls, joysticks, head- or eyegaze-con-trollers, speech input, or switch-activatedscanning arrays. The traditional auditorycues can be replaced with visual cues forthose with hearing difficulties. For thosewith cognitive limitations, computer con-trol functions and the appearance of the dis-play can be simplified.

What are some things I should considerbefore making an equipment purchase?• Do I need help inputting information,

receiving output, or both?• What are my strengths, limitations, and

preferences?• For what tasks do I use my computer?• What financial resources can I access?

Delaware Assistive Technology InitiativeCenter for Applied Science & EngineeringUniversity of Delaware/Alfred I. duPont

Hospital for ChildrenPO Box 269, 1600 Rockland Road

Wilmington, DE 19899-02691(800) 870-DATI or (302) 651-6790

TDD: (302) 651-6794FAX: (302) 651-6793

dati@asel.udel.eduwww.dati.org

DATI fact sheetsare available on the

following topics:

w Adapted Toysw Aids for Daily

Livingw Aids for Low

Visionw Assistive

Listening Devicesw Augmentativeand AlternativeCommunication

w Computer Accessw Seating,

Positioning andMobility

w Switches andEnvironmentalControl Unitsw Tools forLearning

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Don Johnston’s BigKeys Keyboard features extra-large keys, bright colors, and easy-to-read labelswhich help to reduce confusion and frustration.

Prentke Romich Company’s HeadMouse replacesa standard desktop computer mouse for people whocannot use their hands.

VersaPoint Duo by Freedom Scientific is a highquality, interpoint Braille embosser. The speechsynthesizer option speaks menus and doubles asexternal speech for the computer.

Kensington’s Expert Mouse USB/PS2 providessmooth, precise tracking and a comfortable design.

The Goldtouch Split Keyboard is an ergonomickeyboard that allows adjustments of the two alpha-numeric sections both horizontally and vertically tosuit an individual’s requirements.