A New Learning: Assistive Technology and its importance to Persons with Disabilities

There were many aspects in the disability sector that I was unaware of when I first joined the Fellowship. But as I began to understand new things, I also grew more conscious and educated about the sector. Assistive Technology for People with Disabilities was one of them. Technology could prove to be a huge asset for those with disabilities and the elderly to aid them in their daily lives. Assistive technology can assist people of all ages participate in education and work, as well as live independently in their communities.

The rise of technology and its rapid growth has become increasingly available to persons with disabilities in aiding them on many different fronts. When utilized properly, assistive technology has the ability to help older persons and individuals with disabilities exercise their rights and take a more active role in society. 

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology refers to practical tools that enhance independence for people with disabilities and older people. It is “any item, piece of equipment or product system whether acquired commercially, modified or customized that is used to increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities” (Refer 1) 

Assistive Technology can:

1. Support people to access their human rights (United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities)
2. Aid the government in overcoming resource limitations on spending for social welfare and services.
3. Encourage the State to take action in response to the rise in the number of older persons and individuals with disabilities.
4. Provide value for money in terms of user satisfaction, improved quality of life, and cost savings.
5. Support people to complete their education
6. Support people to get and retain employment
7. Support people to live in their community
8. Support people to become digitally literate

The following are the technologies that aid people to access the computer: (Refer 2)

• Screen readers: Blind or visually impaired individuals can read the content of a computer screen using a programme called a screen reader. NVDA, Voiceover for Mac, and JAWS for Windows are a few examples.
• Screen magnification software: This software lets users adjust the screen’s text and/or graphic sizes. These tools give the user the option to view the enlarged text in relation to the rest of the screen, as opposed to simply utilizing the zoom capability. To do this, a portable magnifier-like effect is applied to the screen.
• Text readers: People who have trouble comprehending text due to a variety of learning difficulties use this software. Using a synthetic voice along with a highlighter to draw attention to the word being said, this software will read text. These programs simply read text; they do not read menus or other types of components.
• Speech input software: This software offers a different method for folks who have trouble typing to control the computer and input text. Users can give the system a few simple instructions to carry out mouse actions. The system can be instructed by users to click a link, a button, or a menu item. Mac or Windows versions of Dragon Naturally Speaking are examples of this. Although Mac and Windows both have some speech recognition tools, they cannot be utilized to access the web.
• Alternative input devices: Some individuals may be unable to utilize a mouse or keyboard to work on a computer. These individuals can make use of a variety of gadgets, including:
  • Head pointers: A device that can be used to push keyboard keys that is mounted directly on the user’s head. Those who are unable to use their hands utilize this device.
  • Motion tracking or eye tracking: Devices that observe a target or even the user’s eyes to deduce where the user wishes to position the mouse pointer and move it for the user.
  • Single switch entry devices: These gadgets can be used alone or in conjunction with other alternative input devices. Usually, these go with on-screen keyboards. The user clicks the switch when the desired key is in focus on the on-screen keyboard’s moving pointer over the keys. The same principle applies while using a webpage: the user can activate the switch to make the cursor click on a link or button when it is the focus of the webpage. (Refer 3)

Throughout the Fellowship, when I am experiencing new things and introduced to new material, I am learning. Sometimes I do not realize it, but I keep learning something new everyday. Learning is a relatively permanent change in behavior or knowledge that results from experience. In the process of learning in this fellowship, my mind is transformed and engaged, which allows me to be introduced to new things and ideas. And these new learnings will become a part and parcel of my personal and professional journey and I hope to expand my horizon everyday. 

References 

1. Assistive Technology definition; World Health Organisation & World Bank 2011, p.101[Last accessed: 8/3/2023]
2. Types of Assistive Technology;  Link – https://www.informationtechweb.com/assistive-technology/ . [Last accessed: 10/3/2023]
3.  Frederic Megret, ‘The Disabilities Convention: Human Rights of Persons with Disabilities or Disability Rights?’ e-copy available at: http://ssrn.com/abstract=1267723. [Last accessed: 10/3/2023]
4. Pictures accessed from freepik website.