Access to Technology

Computers are essential tools in all academic studies, including those in science and mathematics. It's difficult to imagine a state-of-the-art program without computer simulations, electronic databases, and/or interactive Internet sites.

Recent advances in adaptive computer technology, greater reliance on computers in many fields, and increased availability and networking of electronic information have resulted in life-changing opportunities for many people with disabilities. In combination, these technologies provide people with disabilities with better access to education, careers, and other life experiences. Educators can play an important role in assuring access to these empowering tools.

Consider a few stories of students with disabilities who are able to access information resources thanks to the availability of adaptive technology and accessible electronic resources. They are all pursuing studies in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

Ben cannot use his hands, but muscular dystrophy doesn't interfere with his use of the Internet; he uses a voice input program that allows him to talk his way through the Internet—six hours a day!
Sarah uses her library's online catalog and the Internet to research and write papers for school. Her learning disability makes it difficult for her to read, so she uses a speech output system to read the screen.
Anna is blind. She uses a screen reader and speech output system to access information on genetics. Her system works well reading text but cannot make sense of graphics.
Shane surfs the Internet with a small tube in his mouth. The computer obeys his every command as he inputs Morse code—a sip for a dot, a puff for a dash. His Cerebral Palsy is only a minor inconvenience as he searches for information on his special interest, naval communication.
Sherri is legally blind, but she has enough sight to view enlarged screen images as she uses governmental resources on the World Wide Web. She is pursuing her master's degree in public administration.
Katie is hearing-impaired. She often uses a sign language interpreter. On the Internet, however, Katie communicates with her science teacher quickly and easily through electronic mail.

These stories provide examples of students with disabilities who are successfully pursuing education and careers thanks to adaptive technology and electronic resources.

Contents of This Section

The information covered in this section can be used to help ensure that computing resources are accessible to all students. The content provides guidelines for dealing with three key issues in the school setting:

Video Presentations

Video presentations used in this section are listed below. DVD versions are included at the end of this notebook. They can also be viewed online at http://www.washington.edu/doit/Video/.

Access to Technology in the Workplace: In Our Own Words. Testimonials from employees on making technology accessible in the workplace. (13 minutes)
Camp: Beyond Summer: Conducting Internet Activities at Camp. Learn how to add Internet experiences to summer camp programs for children and youth with disabilities. (10 minutes)
Equal Access: Computer Labs. Learn how to make computer labs accessible to people with disabilities. (12 minutes)
Working Together: Computers and People with Learning Disabilities. Students and workers with learning disabilities demonstrate computer-based tools and strategies. (10 minutes)
Working Together: Computers and People with Mobility Impairments. People with mobility impairments demonstrate computer access technology. (14 minutes)
Working Together: Computers and People with Sensory Impairments. People with mobility impairments demonstrate computer access technology. (14 minutes)
Working Together: People with Disabilities and Computer Technology. People with disabilities demonstrate adaptive technology and computer applications. (11 minutes)
World Wide Access: Accessible Web Design. People with disabilities describe roadblocks they encounter on the World Wide Web and examples of accessible web design techniques. (11 minutes)

Handouts

Handouts provided for this section are listed below. They can also be found online at http://www.washington.edu/doit/Brochures/publist.html

Math Science

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