How is does UDL assist computer access?

In my last two posts, we learned about technology to assist students who are hard of hearing. We will now move to the way computer technology has incorporated UDL to become more accessible to everyone.

Computers should provide choice in methods of use. There are way to modify input devices such as mice and keyboards. Keyboards can be used without mice using special commands which benefit students with fine motor control issues, limited range of motion, and visual impairments. Speech recognition is also available, for student who have difficulty remembering key codes, muscle weakness, or visual impairments. Text-to-speech is also available as an output option for students with reading disabilities, or attention deficits.

Computers should also be equally accessible for left-handed users. In Windows, you can adjust the two-button configuration in the control panel. Macs only have one button, so this is not an issue.

You can enlarge the size of icons and slow the speed of the mouse to accommodate students with hand-eye coordination problems, visual impairments, hand tremors, motor control issues and cognitive disabilities. Adjusting the speed of the double-click registration and keyboard repeat rate can assist students with fine motor control issues. For students with a limited range of motion, the teacher can speed up the mouse.

Resources:

Dell, A. G., Newton, D. A., & Petroff, J. G. (2012). Assistive Technology in the Classroom: Enhancing the School Experiences of Students with Disabilities (2nd ed., pp. 163-174). Boston, MA: Pearson Education.