Computer Assistive Technology for People Who Have Disabilities: Computer Adaptations and Modifications

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. The final section, "Alternative Output," concerns the process where the consumer uses the computer to output information. This includes talking word processors, large print/magnification, CCTVs, refreshable Braille displays and embossers, screen readers, and speech synthesizers. Computer Assistive Technology Consumer Satisfaction with Technology A method to evaluate consumer satisfaction and success with technology is to look at the number of individuals who continue to use the technology that has been provided and those persons who discontinue use. Studies (Phillips & Zhao, 1993; Riemer-Reiss & Wacker, 2000; Scherer & Galvin, 1996; Tewey, Barnicle, & Pert, 1994) have shown that abandonment rates are generally within the 30% to 40% range. These studies indicated that when consumers have more involvement in the selection process, the likelihood is greater that technology will continue to be used. A consumer-driven approach provides the individual with feelings of ownership and responsibility, often leading to continued use of AT (Riemer-Reiss & Wacker, 2000). Other important factors to consumer continued use involve ease of operation of the computer, and the provision of AT that best fits one's needs. Relative advantage (characteristics of the device itself) and compatibility also are highly related to continued use (Rogers, 1995). AT devices allow consumers to function more independently in school, at home, and on the job. Technology involves tools for enhancing independence. Rehabilitation counselors can best assist consumers by evaluating their individual and personal needs and desires. By providing the most effective computer adaptations to meet consumers' needs, the opportunity of satisfaction and continued use become enhanced. …