AT WIKI the Global Encyclopedia of Assistive Technologies
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Assistive technologies are those tools that disabled people use to get round the barriers of modern technologies. These products can be divided into a range of catgories.
A review of the history and definitions of Assistive Technology from ATTrain.
Got 5 minutes to spare ? Then watch this short video about assistive technology.
TechDis Box of Assistive Technology - AT showcase
Adapting and Adjusting your computer
Things you can do to adjust settings from within your operating system or main applications to make the computer more accessible and matched to your needs
Different input and output devices, i.e. Keyboards, Mice, Voice Recognition software, eye and head track systems, that make it easier for you to put information into a computer and get information out.
Additional software solutions that make accessing information and comunicating on a computer easier, i.e. Text Help, Magnification, Communication, Voice Recognition, Screenreaders.
Other Platforms
The rapidly changing field of mobile phones creates a range of issues for disabled users. This area explores models of phone with high levels of accessibility and how phones canbe optimised for individual needs
Access to Digital Tv is an increasingly significant issue as The UK along with other EC countries seeks to turn off its analogue signal. This section looks at how disabled people are accessing asnd using DTV
PDA's or Personal Digital Assistants descibe those portable or handheld computers that are used to carry information and resources with the user. examples include the HP Ipaq or the PalmPilot series
Augmentative Alternative Communication aids (AAC), for people who have lost the power of speech through disability. It includes the use of eye pointing, gesture, signing, symbols, word boards, or a speech output device. Augmenting communication involves speech and writing. In some cases, it also involves technology relating to teaching and learning, mobility, environmental control and employment.
Settings and Locations
Some technologies are used in some settings but less so in others.
Working with different needs
How a person with a vision impairment access a computer - bigger fonts, magnification, screen reading software and braille devices.
Some disabilities will require to consider an alternative to the standard keyboard and mouse which comes with a computer. In this section you will find a range of keyboard and mouse alternatives, including on-screen keyboards, eye pointing and head tracking technology.
AT to assist giving the user a voice - augmenting or offering speech. AT to assist with giving the user improved access to written communication as a reader or writer.
People with learning disabilities have difficulty taking information in through the senses and processing the information with accuracy. This may lead to difficulty learning and performing in school and work. Most learning disabilities are manifested in poor reading, writing and math which subsequently affect a broad range of functions and skills.
People who are deaf or hard-of-hearing can configure Windows to use visual cues in place of sounds, or increase the volume level of program and system sounds.
The experience and impact of AT is illustrated through case studies
The issues and solutions to designing websites to meet the needs of people with a disability
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