Assistive Technologies

Disabled users interact with a computer through various assistive technologies, specific to the user's disability. Assistive technologies are probably the most recent, significant, successful advancement in helping people with disabilities communicate or retrieve information.

These disability specific technologies can be in the form of hardware or software and can include:

• Screen readers
• Voice recognition products and systems
• Touch screens
• Screen enlargers and magnifiers
• Refreshable Braille displays and keyboards
• Electronic pointing devices (head mouse)
• Wands and sticks
• Joysticks

Assistive technologies have vastly improved the interactive communication experience for people with disabilities. These technologies are so successful because they give the ability to communicate back to the individual.

Related Links (opens a new window)

Section 508: Assistive Technology Showcase Devices
WebAIM: Web Accessibility in Mind - Screen Reader Simulation