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Computers have assisted people with disabilities in all phases of life and have helped increase opportunities for them to become more productive members of society. Rehabilitation service providers can offer improved services with greater knowledge of computer assistive technology. This article discusses computer adaptations and alternative input devices (e.g., alternative computer keyboards, switches, mouse modifications, eye-tracking devices), alternative input processing aids (e.g., word prediction, reading and writing aids, electronic reference tools), and alternative output (e.g., motor, visual, auditory, and tactile representation) to facilitate use of computers by persons who have disabilities.
As all areas of society continue to become more technologically oriented, individuals with disabilities are benefiting and becoming more integrated into American society. Society, as well, benefits from this increased participation of individuals with disabilities, their greater independence, and their decreased reliance on public services. Assistive technology (AT) has increased functional abilities, independence, and access to mainstream society, creating a method of equalization between persons with and without disabilities.
Rehabilitation counselors need to be familiar with computer assistive technology (CAT) as consumers are receiving increased benefits with the help of technology. It provides a valuable tool to enhance the lives and employment opportunities for these individuals. Empowerment of consumers through technology facilitates self-direction in life choices, and this self-directed empowerment augments the rehabilitation process.
The purpose of this article is to describe some of the basic components of computer systems that can be modified to help consumers with disabilities more easily access and use these devices. Rehabilitation professionals can recommend these adaptations and modifications for their consumers. Basics of computer assistive technology are introduced first. Three areas of CAT are then covered; the first section is "Adaptations and Alternate Input Devices." Adaptations to the standard keyboard or mouse may provide the type of accommodation that meets the individual's needs or desires. This section discusses the following adaptations: alternative keyboards, keyguards, switches, mouse modifications, pointing and typing aids, eye-tracking technology, Morse Code, optical character recognition, scanners, and voice recognition technology.
The second section, "Alternative Input Processing Aids," describes basic features that operate as specific tools or macros that enable users to accomplish tasks more readily. This includes abbreviation expansion, word prediction, cognitive retraining software, reading and writing aids, electronic reference tools, and browser accessibility.