Any of the shortcut icons that can be double-clicked to start an application can also be assigned a unique three-key combination called a shortcut key. Shortcut keys can be used to open a users' most often used programs in Windows. This can be a lifesaver for those using a screen reading program that has stopped and left the computer user who is blind without control of the machine.
Some individuals with disabilities require assistive technology (AT) in order to access computers. Hundreds of Windows AT third-party products are available, making it possible for almost anyone to use Windows® applications, regardless of their disabilities. The Microsoft® Windows® operating systems also provides a core set of basic accessibility features and AT applications, which can be deployed on all computers in a computer lab or classroom without additional cost.
E-mentoring or online mentoring occurs when computers and networks are used as communication tools between mentors and proteges. This format has many advantages such as eliminating the time, geographic, and social constraints of in-person communication.
Although there are many benefits to e-mentoring, there are also negative aspects of electronic communication. Difficulties include clearly expressing ideas and feelings, managing high volumes of messages, gaining access to technology, and encountering technical difficulties.
Mary Driscoll teaches in the special education and learning assistance program (LAP) at Evergreen Elementary School in Spokane, WA. Following a presentation on assistive technology by DO-IT staff, Ms. Driscoll applied for and received an AccessSTEM minigrant to purchase technology for her school.
Positive self-efficacy, or the belief that one can do what is necessary to achieve his/her goals, has been shown to be important in determining whether or not postsecondary students will succeed in reaching their goals. Key factors affecting self-efficacy include:
Yes. Here are a few examples:
The National Federation of the Blind Youth Slam is for high school students with visual impairments who want to engage in challenging activities designed to build confidence and increase science literacy. At the 2007 and 2009 Youth Slam events, teams from the University of Washington offered instant messaging (IM) chatbots as a topic for student in the computer science track.
In 2011-2012 three departments of Illinois State University, the Special Education Assistive Technology Center, Classroom Technology Support Services, and Metcalf University Lab School seized an opportunity to unite in a project which advanced research on better accommodations for students with visual impairments.
The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA), defines "mitigating measures" as things that lessen or ameliorate the effects of an impairment, including, but not limited to:
You can find lists of resources on the World Wide Web. Here are some good places to start:
