Computer Access

Flexibility is the major universal design feature that facilitates computer access for students with disabilities.  Mac and Windows are the two primary operating systems that are used in an educational setting.  Both systems, Mac and Windows, offer many flexible options, to better serve the market:

- able to navigate and use computer using only the mouse

- able to navigate and use computer using only the keyboard

- computers can be controlled by voice, via microphone

- customizable computer output (example: text-to-speech options, speaking rate)

- accommodate left- and right-handed people: Mac’s one-button mouse, can switch Microsoft’s two-button mouse

- size of icons can be varied and changed

- speed of mouse/double click speed can be set

There are also additional system features for users with disabilities. 

- Keyboard modifications and mouse control is variable

- StickyKeys: replaces the need to press multiple keys at once for a function, instead pressing the keys sequentially

- Slow Keys: brief keystrokes are ignored; when the amount of time after a key is released increases

- MouseKeys: using a numeric keypad instead of navigating the mouse 

Students with sensory impairments have the following feature options:

- For deafness or hard of hearing: visual signals replace auditory prompts

- For visual impairments or blindness: application of high-contrast color scheme, screen magnification options, enlarged mouse pointer, voice/speech feedback