Computers technologies have been developed to help disabled students in different ways depending on their disabilities (visual impairments, or mobility impairments, or speech, language and learning impairments). Today, many adaptive devices with accompanying software make it possible for individuals with disabilities to use computer and related technology. Many companies and organizations can be contacted on the Web. Some good starting point include
1- The Don Johnson company, May23 2002 http://www.donjohnston.com/.
The Don Johnson’s company provides both the hardware and the software people with disabilities who would need to access a computer. Don Johnston Incorporated is the leader Intervention Resources. They provide the high-quality intervention products that struggle students and students with disabilities need to achieve literacy. There are a reading, writing, word-study and computer access products, as well as professional development services for educating teachers on using technology to teach reading and writing.
2- Infinite potential through assistive technology, May 23 2002 http://www.infinitec.org/assistechclass.html
It is a great resources for blindness or visual impairment, for deafness or hearing loss, and general resource guide. Infinitec Inc. is a U.S non-profit corporation formed to help people with disabilities and their family access life-enhancing technology, a joint effort of United Cerebral Palsy Association of Greater Chicago and U.S.A Cerebral Palsy associations Inc., Washington, D.C., and built on technology-access programs offered by UCP affiliates around the nation.
3-Closing The Gap, May 2002, May 22 2002Disabilities http://www.closingthegap.com/
“ Closing The Gap’’ provides practical up-to-date information on assistive technology products, procedures, and best practices through newspaper, annual conferences, and Web site. They share assistive technology questions, strategies and solution with our on-line community. “Closing The Gap’’, a bimonthly newspaper-style publication devoted to news and reviews regarding technology advances for individuals with disabilities. “Closing The Gap’’ is one of the best resources for information about new developments in special education technology.
4-Wilson, Linda. UNC-CH Center for Instructional Technology, October 1996 Another organization that can often provide both the hardware and the software people with disabilities would need to access a computer.
5-Alliance for Technology Access January 2002 http://trace.wisc.edu/gofr-web/ata.html
This organization defines as a growing movement of people who are working to redefine human potential through the powerful and imaginative application of computer technology. It consists of a network of assistive technology resource centers whose members share a common vision and an uncommon commitment to improving the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities.
6-Fema for kids—What did you learn http://www.app1.fema.gov//cgi-shl/
There are some real problem solving experiences that ask the students choose the right answers. Though these problems students should develop minimal skills to do mathematical work.
New opportunities for the disabled student in higher education will naturally lead to increased assimilation into the work force upon graduation. Assistive technology for disabled computer users supports the precept behind the Americans with Disabilities Act—that the disabled should have equal chance at educational resources and opportunities, increasing their likelihood of academic success.