Assistive Technology and more...
Assistive Technology (AT) refers to a variety of tools, products and devices that can make particular activities possible or easier to perform.
I. Keyboards & Mice (Input devices)
Keyboards
The Qwerty keyboard layout was designed in the era of mechanical typewriters. Although it is the most common keyboard layout, it was not designed for ease of use.
The Dvorak keyboard layout is arranged so that the most commonly used letters are easiest to reach.
The ABC keyboard displays the keys alphabetically.
One-handed keyboards allow all letters to be accessed with one hand.
Reduced size keyboards are designed for computer users with smaller hands and those requiring smaller finger movements.
An on-screen or virtual keyboard displays a virtual keyboard on the computer screen.
Pointing Devices
The computer mouse is the standard pointing device.
The joystick enables the mouse arrow on the computer screen to be moved by means of a stationary handheld stick.
A trackball facilitates mouse arrow movement by means of the rotation of a stationary ball.
A touch screen is a transparent screen placed over the computer monitor. Items can be selected and the mouse arrow moved by the touch of a finger on the screen.
A touch pad or track pad produces movement of the mouse arrow as a finger is run across a small flat pad.
Head-controlled and eye-controlled devices use sensors to track a user's head or eye movements. The onscreen cursor moves accordingly.
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Accessibility Tools are modifiable features provided within a computer's operating system. For example, the mouse keys feature enables one to control the mouse arrow by using several keys on the keyboard.
Voice recognition software converts one’s speech to text.
Switches are devices that enable the user to direct computer operations by means of a single action—such as a tap of a finger (or a toe).
Sip-puff switches are activated by sipping and puffing on a device called a straw or a wand.
Wireless switches can be accessed remotely.
A Switch interface device connects a switch to a computer and enables it to function.
II. Learning Tools (literacy tools)
Reading Tools
Text-to-speech software creates a spoken sound version of the text in a computer document.
Optical character recognition (OCR) software converts an image of text, such as a scanned paper document or electronic fax file, into computer-editable text.
Scanning & Reading software programs (when used with a scanner) enable the use of OCR and the conversion of text to speech. They often include a bundle of helpful features such as visual display options, speaking dictionaries, speaking word prediction, and tools to facilitate note taking and outlining.
Text in an electronic format (eText) is text-based information that is available in a digitally encoded format that can be read visually and by electronic means. Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), MP3 Players, and eBooks are examples of devices used to read digitized text.
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The Reading pen is a small portable device that enables one to scan printed text and hear it spoken.
Writing Tools
Text-to-speech word processors create a spoken sound version of the text that is created in a computer document.
A word prediction program consists of a menu of words in a dialog box on the computer screen. The list of word “predictions” is refined as each subsequent letter is typed.
Abbreviation expansion enables certain combinations of letters to expand when typed, converting into longer words.
Organizational tools
Graphic organizing software uses formats such as diagrams, outlines, and mind maps to assist users in performing writing activities.
Note taking and scheduling can be facilitated through the use of electronic devices such as PDAs and Palm Pilots.
III. Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
AAC devices are diverse in size, method of operation, and in technological sophistication. When using an AAC device the user may be presented with pictures, symbols, selected words, or may type on a modified keyboard.
Communication software is available for use on a computer.
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IV. Vision
Screen magnification
Screen magnification software magnifies what is seen on the computer screen.
Low-tech screen magnification devices may be attached to the front of computer monitor, positioned on a desk, or hand-held.
High-tech screen magnification devices, such as portable or stationary Close Circuit Televisions (CCTVs), are capable of greatly magnifying text and objects.
Screen Readers
While text-reading software reads text within a document on the screen, screen-reading software reads everything on the computer screen.
Reading machines and talking scanners are stand-alone scanning systems that will read and store imported text.
Talking scanner software works with a conventional scanner to handle the scanning, reading, and saving of documents.
Braille Devices
When connected to an existing computer, Braille displays and keyboards display information in refreshable Braille.
Braille note takers are devices that use Braille, a refreshable Braille display, or a regular keyboard. Many contain features such as word processing, a calculator, sound recording/playback, a calendar, and access to computers and computer functions.
Braille embossers and printers provide hard-copy versions of text in a Braille format.
Translator Software translates documents such as Word documents or PDF files into grade 1 or grade 2 Braille so that they can be imprinted on a Braille embosser.
Talking book players and recorders are devices that allow audio books to be read and recorded in a variety of formats.
Talking large print typing software keyboarding programs enable those with visual impairments to build touch-typing skills.