Communicating using computers via access to the internet and email has opened up the world, especially for those that may be restricted in their access to external workplaces through physical, vision or hearing disabilities. Being able to input onto a computer is critical in opening up this communication facility.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
There are many products and solutions that make using a computer easier for people with disability. A range of keyboards and accessories are available to assist in facilitating computer input including:
A range of mouse and mouse alternatives are also available to facilitate computer input including:
People who experience difficulty typing can also use typing aids which are typically a wand or stick used to strike keys on the keyboard. They are most commonly worn on the head, held in the mouth, strapped to the chin or held in the hand:
There are also a range of computer hardware and accessories that can assist in improving computer access such as larger screens to accommodate screen magnification software for those that are vision impaired:
People who experience difficulty typing can also use typing aids which are typically a wand or stick used to strike keys on the keyboard. they are most commonly worn on the head, held in the mouth, strapped to the chin or held in the hand:
There are also a range of computer hardware and accessories that can assist in improving computer access such as larger screens to accommodate screen magnification software for those that are vision impaired:
For people who have partial to complete vision loss or those that are unable to, or find it difficult to physically use a mouse or keyboard, there is a range of assistive computer software available. Some of this software can also be useful for people who have cognitive difficulties:
Scribes write or type information that is communicated to them by another person. A scribe does not interpret information or perform essential job functions:
Reporting and documenting important information can be done by recording voice messages onto tape or another audio tool rather than writing it down. It can then be inputted into the computer by an assistant if necessary. Some personal digital assistants or PDA’s have the capacity to transfer directly onto a computer with the appropriate software:
Webcams, Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) programs and video calling can also be of benefit for people who have difficulty writing on a computer. These devices and programs provide an alternative way to communicate by allowing the person to have face to face communication via the internet, eliminating the need to type communications such as emails or do worksite visits:
The accessibility options on a computer’s control panel make it easier for people with disability to operate a computer without installing special software.
References
Novitatech Regency Park 2012, Assistive Technology—Computer Access, Novita, Regency Park, viewed 26 February 2012, http://www.novitatech.org.au/subcategory.asp?p=247&id=3.
Vision Australia 2012, Adaptive Technology Guide, Vision Australia, Enfield, viewed 26 February 2012, http://www.visionaustralia.org.au/info.aspx?page=1230.
Zyteq 2011, Computer accessing, Zyteq Pty Ltd, South Melbourne, viewed 26 February 2012, http://www.zyteq.com.au/products/computer_accessing.
Zyteq 2011, Software, Zyteq Pty Ltd, South Melbourne, viewed 26 February 2012, http://www.zyteq.com.au/products/software.