AccessSTEM

When a person's mobility impairment prevents the use of a standard keyboard or mouse, using a switch may be a possibility. Switches come in a nearly limitless array and can be controlled with nearly any body part. Switches can be activated with a kick, a swipe of the hand, sip and puff by mouth, head movement, an eyeblink, or touch. Even physical closeness can activate a proximity switch. These switches work in concert with a box or an emulator that sends commands for the keyboard and/or mouse to the computer.

Individuals who are blind cannot access visual material presented on the computer screen or in printed materials. Fortunately, specialized hardware and software can make computer systems usable by individuals who are blind.

Input

Most individuals who are blind use standard keyboards; however, Braille input devices are available. Braille key labels can assist with keyboard use.

Accurate and organized recording and analysis of the data collected during a science experiment is just as critical to the success of the experiment as using the proper tools and procedures. Scientists and students in science classes often need to collect numerical data in an organized form or otherwise keep track of results. Generally, many of the difficulties around the recording and analysis of data are similar for students with and without disabilities. However, some issues are more commonly encountered by students with certain types of disabilities.

Yes. The TTY (TeleTYpe), TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf), and TT (Text Telephone) acronyms are used interchangeably to refer to any type of text-based telecommunications equipment used by a person who does not have enough functional hearing to understand speech, even with amplification. The person sending a message types it on a small keyboard, and the person receiving the message reads the text on the display. In order for a person to use a text telephone, the individual at the other end of the conversation must also have one, or they must use a relay service.

Students with disabilities can be successful in chemistry classes if they have access to the content and activities of the classes. When teachers adopt good teaching strategies that apply principles of universal design all students benefit, including those with disabilities. An example of a strategy based on universal design principles is to have students work with partners or in small groups where each student has the opportunity to contribute according to his or her strengths.

Emerging Leaders is a program that partners with corporate sponsors to provide summer internships for college students with disabilities. Leadership development skills are emphasized in these positions and both students and businesses gain from the experience. Students are placed in a corporate context and are allowed to show their dedication and motivation in the business environment while the employers involved are able to welcome diverse individuals into their workplace.

Visually impaired students often find the study of astronomy difficult because so much of the content is presented visually. One method of providing access to astronomy information is to create raised line drawings or other tactile graphics of images such as star charts and planetary maps. Another is to create three-dimensional models to represent objects such as planet spheres.

Online resources, including those described below, are available to help instructors and support staff make the study of astronomy more accessible to students with visual impairments.

Sometimes it is difficult for students with disabilities to participate in experiments and other science lab activities. Online simulations can help these students participate in science exercises with more independence than may be possible in the traditional lab setting.

The following list, although not comprehensive, provides examples of available science simulations. Inclusion on the list does not imply endorsement.

There are many places to explore grants available for projects that serve to increase the representation of individuals with disabilities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, including the following:

If a faculty member anticipates that there will be a need to provide accommodations they can include expected costs in the grant proposal budget. If accommodation requests arise after the grant has been funded, the proposed budget can generally be reduced in other areas in order to cover accommodation costs. The funding source can be contacted for details about their policies.