Special software can further aid those with mobility impairments.
A particular system is "trained" to recognize specific voices. Speech recognition systems allow users to control computers by speaking words and letters.
Speech input provides another option for individuals with disabilities.
#PEOPLE WHO USE COMPUTERS AT WORK CODE#
Special adaptive hardware and software translate Morse code into a form that computers understand so that standard software can be used. In Morse code input, users input Morse code by activating switches (e.g., a sip-and-puff switch registers dot with a sip and dash with a puff). Hundreds of switches tailor input devices to individual needs. To make selections, individuals use switches activated by movement of the head, finger, foot, breath, etc. In scanning input, lights or cursors scan letters and symbols displayed on computer screens or external devices. In each case, special switches make use of at least one muscle over which the individual has voluntary control (e.g., head, finger, knee, mouth). Track balls and specialized input devices can replace a mouse.įor those with more severe mobility impairments keyboard emulation is available, including scanning and Morse code input. Mini-keyboards provide access to those who have fine motor control but lack a range of motion great enough to use a standard keyboard. Expanded keyboards (larger keys spaced far apart) can replace standard keyboards for those with limited fine motor control. Some hardware modifications completely replace the keyboard or mouse for individuals who cannot operate these standard devices. They provide more efficient key arrangements than standard keyboards designed for two-handed users. For instance, disk guides can assist with inserting and removing diskettes a dedicated hard disk or computer network access can eliminate or reduce the necessity to do so.įor individuals who need to operate the computer with one hand, left- and right-handed keyboards are available. Other simple hardware modifications can assist individuals with mobility impairments. For example, mounting keyboards perpendicular to tables or wheelchair trays at head-height can assist individuals with limited mobility who use pointing devices to press keys. Sometimes repositioning the keyboard and monitor can enhance accessibility. Keyboard guards (solid templates with holes over each key to assist precise selection) can be used by those with limited fine motor control. The key repeat function can be disabled for those who cannot release a key quickly enough to avoid multiple selections. Software utilities can create "sticky keys" that electronically latch the SHIFT, CONTROL, and other keys to allow sequential keystrokes to input commands that normally require two or more keys to be pressed simultaneously. Individuals who have use of one finger, or have access to a mouth- or head-stick or some other pointing device, can control the computer by pressing keys with the pointing device. Some technology assists individuals with little or no use of their hands in using a standard keyboard. Plugging all computer components into power outlet strips with accessible on and off switches makes it possible for some individuals to turn equipment on and off independently. InputĮquipment which provides flexibility in the positioning of monitors, keyboards, documentation, and tabletops is useful for many individuals with disabilities.
Some wheelchairs may not fit under standard height computer tables and some computer users do not have enough use of their hands and arms to operate a standard keyboard or mouse. Specific products, and approaches to using them, are described below. Hardware and software tools (known as adaptive or assistive technologies) have been developed to provide functional alternatives to these standard operations. These barriers can be grouped into three functional categories: barriers to providing computer input, interpreting output, and reading supporting documentation. Still, people with disabilities face a variety of barriers to computer use. By using computing technology for tasks such as reading and writing documents, communicating with others, and searching for information on the Internet, students and employees with disabilities are capable of handling a wider range of activities independently. However, technology is helping to lower many of these barriers. People with disabilities meet barriers of all types.
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