Computers

Computers and People With Disabilities

Most of us do one or more things a little differently than other people. Some of us wear eye glasses or contact lenses to see a little better. Some of us put cushions on our chairs so we can sit more comfortably. Some of us type everything because we don't like writing things out longhand.

If a person is in a situation where performing a function in the usual way is difficult, no one thinks much about it if that person amends the situation--and his own procedures--to enhance his performance.

Most of us do it so often that we don't even consider that we're adapting a situation to fit our own abilities--or disabilities. We're just making things a little more comfortable, a little easier on ourselves.

That's what adaptive computing technology is all about. Using special computing software and hardware to make things easier and more accessible for people with disabilities.

Computers have made much of the work that people do easier and less time-consuming, and adaptive technology offers people with disabilities the opportunity--not just to use computers--but to use computers to complete tasks that were previously not possible for them. For example, a computer and a screen reader can give a blind person access to online books and journals. A computer, scanner, and a screen reader provides a way for a blind person to read a printed book.

The ability to use computers, software and adaptive technology gives people with disabilities the tools to go to school and hold jobs.

This a brief overview of adaptive computing technology and how it can help people with disabilities participate in our society.