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Welcome to the Technology page you will find information on
all your adaptive technology needs
We do not confine our activities to courses for our learners. We can also
provide useful information to learners and potential employers on adaptive
technology, both software and peripherals.
The VRDS Learning Centre is recognized as a regional centre of expertise in
Adaptive Technology. Our research is continuing all the time, as we evaluate new
items. Our published list will therefore change from time to time.
Defining Adaptive Technology.
Adaptive technology is an expression used to describe hardware and software that
gives those with a disability full independent access to a computer without
barriers.
Furthermore, a computer equipped with adaptive technology can be the equalizer
that allows disabled people to actively participate in society.
Assessing Adaptive Technology needs.
This could include the continuation of employment, taking on new employment,
accessing learning opportunities or enjoying social interaction.
As such, the assessment of adaptive technology needs is of as much importance to
the individual as it is to employers.
Adaptive technology includes:
Different types of accessible mice, trackballs and keyboards.
Screen magnification software and screen readers.
Synthesized voice speaking word processing.
Voice recognition software, enabling speech to be turned into text.
Specialist software for the dysphasic.
Communication tools.
Specialist furniture.
What is available?
Note that the following does not claim to be an exhaustive list of all items of
adaptive technology available, nor does it imply recommendation by VRDS of any
item.
Remember that the suitability of any item of adaptive technology for a
particular individual should ideally be determined by assessment.
Input Alternatives
Input alternatives comprise various types of computer mice and keyboards.
Alternative mice:
Large Trackball mouse, PC Trac:
For limited mobility in the hand or arm.
http://www.microspeed.com
Small Track ball MicroTrac
For single hand/single finger use, say for severely limited mobility.
http://www.microspeed.com
Glide pad Cirque point
For Sensitive one-handed use
http://www.cirque.com
Joystick Penny and Giles Joystick Plus
http://www.penny-gilescp.co.uk
Alternative Keyboards
An overlay keyboard has many overlays for the learners individual needs
Large keyboard, Intellikeys:
Alternative overlays for many applications
http://www.intellikeys.com
a keyboard guard prevents hand tremours and keystroke repeat
Prevents accidentally pressing two keys.
http://www.cherry.de
Small keyboard
Lap tray use for wheelchair users.
http://www.cherry.de
Accessibility Software
This is software that adapts the computer to an individual’s needs
A screen reader reads sceren content out loud
Screen reader, JAWS:
Reads the screen to an audio output.
http://www.freedomscientific.com
Screen magnifier, Zoomtext:
Increases the size of the screen display.
http;//www.aisquared.com
Voice recognition, Dragon
Converts the spoken word into computer text.
http://www.lhsl.com
This software speaks out text aloud it is made by text help systems
Speaking text, Text Help
Speaks text as it is typed, reads text as it is displayed
http://www.texthelp.com
Specialist software, Writing with Symbols
Learning software for dysphasic users.
http://www.widgit.com
Specialist software, REACT
Clinical software for dysphasic users.
http://www.propellermedia.com
http://www.propellermedia.com