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2001-00-00 |
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Guides - Non-Classroom |
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Descriptors:
Access to Computers; Accessibility (for Disabled); Adult Education; Assistive Technology; Computer Interfaces; Computer Peripherals; Computer Software; Computers; Elementary Secondary Education; Hearing Impairments; Input Output Devices; Speech Synthesizers; Visual Impairments
Abstract:
This brief paper considers ways in which people with sensory impairments can benefit from the assistive technology available with computers. Assistive technology practitioners are urged not to focus on the disability, but on the individual's abilities and the tasks to be performed. Explanations of the major sensory disability areas precedes descriptions of computing tools that have been used effectively by this population. For visual impairments, these include enlarged monitor displays, screen enlargement technology plus a scanner (to magnify printed text), speech and/or Braille output systems, screen reader software, refreshable Braille displays, and dedicated Web browsing software that incorporates speech and/or large print. For hearing impairments, computer access is simpler but is complicated by system-generated beeps (which can be changed to visual displays) and the increasing use of streaming media. For individuals with loss of sensitivity in hands and/or fingers due to peripheral neuropathy or other causes, suggestions include speech input software. The paper also lists contact and other information resources associated with Project DO-IT at the University of Washington. (DB)
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Author(s): |
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Pub Date: |
2000-09-00 |
Pub Type(s): |
Guides - Non-Classroom |
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Descriptors:
Assistive Devices (for Disabled); Computer Assisted Instruction; Computer Uses in Education; Disabilities; Infants; Input Output Devices; Play; Toddlers; Toys
Abstract:
This guide to playing with switches for parents and early intervention personnel was developed by the "Let's Play! Project," a 3-year federally supported project that worked to promote play in infants and toddlers with disabilities through the use of assistive technology. Switches are used with electronic toys to help young children easily activate and deactivate them while playing. An introductory section emphasizes that using switches with toys can provide the child with a sense of empowerment and develop play skills. Topics covered in the guide include: beginning with highly reactive toys, switches and toys, adapting a toy, accommodating the child's interests and abilities, switch characteristics, switch category types, positioning options, switch toy use, switch interfaces, communication recorded message switches, story telling, games for young children, and pretend play. A directory lists companies producing switches, adapted toys, and switch interfaces for children with special needs. (DB)
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Pub Date: |
1999-03-00 |
Pub Type(s): |
Reports - Descriptive |
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Descriptors:
Accessibility (for Disabled); Assistive Devices (for Disabled); Input Output Devices; Severe Disabilities; Use Studies
Abstract:
This paper describes the development and evaluation of a low-cost head-operated joystick for computer users with disabilities that prevent them from using a conventional hand-operated computer mouse and/or keyboard. The paper focuses on three issues: first, the style of head movement required by the device; second, whether a head-operated device should work as an absolute positioning device or as a joystick; and, third, the accuracy required by the device. It finds that the device's "nose following" style of head movement is more accepted by users than alternatives; that users also preferred the joystick relative pointing device over absolute positioning devices; and that users did not notice inaccuracies inherent in the device's design, thus allowing production at a lower cost. (DB)
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Pub Date: |
1998-00-00 |
Pub Type(s): |
Guides - Classroom - Teacher |
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Descriptors:
Assistive Devices (for Disabled); Computer Software; Computer Uses in Education; Curriculum Development; Disabilities; Early Intervention; Educational Environment; Family Involvement; Input Output Devices; Learning Activities; Preschool Education; Resource Materials; Severe Disabilities
Abstract:
This curriculum guide presents a comprehensive approach to using technology with children. Chapter 1 presents the curriculum's philosophy and identifies benefits and applications of technology for young children. Chapter 2 looks at the learning environment (including preschool environments, birth to three environments, and environments for children with severe disabilities) and offers guidelines for purchasing and using computer equipment. Chapter 3 is on family participation and offers suggestions for children ages birth to 3, 3 to 5, and with severe disabilities, as well as suggestions for conducting a family computer workshop. Chapter 4 is on technology assessment, while chapter 5 focuses on switches and switch adaptations. A potpourri of curriculum activities is described in chapter 6, organized around specific software packages. Procedures for customizing activities are contained in chapter 7, including adaptations for children with motor, visual, or auditory impairment. The appendix contains resource information on software, adaptive equipment, off-computer materials, technology-related organizations, and World Wide Web sites. (Contains an index.) (DB)
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