Assistive Technology (AT) and Accessibility
Our facility provides services and other resources that aid in integrating people with disabilities into the WorkForce, including a fully accessible computer work station on wheels. This workstation includes:
- Dell computer with 19-inch flat-panel monitor
- Uniphone telephone and TTY
- Various software for those with sensory, mobility and cognitive needs
- Video Magnifier (CCTV)
- Kensington Expert Mouse Trackball
- Parrot Talk Pro Microphone and Plantronics Headset
- Other AT tools such as Braille stickers
We also provide staff who are trained to help people use these products.
Examples of our AT Hardware
AlphaSmart 3000 is a battery-powered keyboard with a small screen that lets you type or take notes anywhere. One-key transfer allows you to transfer your information to a computer for formatting and printing. AlphaSmart provides an efficient way to enter and store information without a laptop or word processor.
The Kensington Expert Mouse is a mouse alternative that saves time by reducing repetetive tasks. The large ball requires less hand and arm movement. It can be used by both left-handed and right-handed individuals.
This keyboard has enlarged print stickers on all of the keys to help individuals who may need a larger font. It also has Braille on all of the keys.
Uniphone 1000 is a telephone and TTY that has volume control, Voice Carry-Over (VCO) and Hearing Carry-Over (HCO). With the Uniphone, individuals who are deaf can share a single telephone line with those who have normal hearing.
The Clarity Solutions Video Magnifier (CCTV) uses a video camera to project a magnified image onto a TV screen. It helps a person who may need something more powerful than a magnifier. After the image is on the screen the user can view an enlaraged version of such things as printed text, handwriting, photographs or a medicine bottle.
Natural Point's Smart-Nav (formerly known as TrackIR) is a mouse replacement system based on a small camera that connects to a computer. The transmitter tracks the light that is reflected by a silver dot placed on the user's head or fingertip. Its system allows cursor control by head movement without using your hands.
Overview of our AT Software
JAWS for Windows 5.0
JAWS for Windows is a text-to-speech solution for individuals who are blind or visually impaired who use a computer. JAWS screen reader provides access to standard Windows applications and the Web by 'speaking' the content on a computer screen. The speed of speech can be adjusted to the skill level of the user.
ZoomText Xtra
ZoomText Xtra combines print and screen reading for computer users who are visually impaired. Text and graphics can be enlarged and onscreen text can be spoken as you work, allowing easy access to documents, e-mail, and the Internet. ZoomText can be operated (a) via the traditional mouse and pointer commanders, or (b) via keyboard commands. ZoomText also includes the DocReader which - when activated - will read through entire MSWord documents, websites, and e-mail.
KURZWEIL 3000
KURZWEIL 3000 is a reading and writing system for people who may have reading difficulties or learning disabilities. It uses Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Text-to-Speech technology and other tools to improve reading speed and comprehension. Kurzweil 3000 can read any text typed or scanned into the program as well as any text on the web.
Dragon Naturally Speaking
Dragon Naturally Speaking is speech recognition software that allows you to use your computer by speaking to it through a microphone. You can compose e-mail messages, write documents, navigate your desktop, and surf the Web by speaking. Dragon lets you edit and format text as well as change fonts, colors, and sizes by voice.
Co: Writer
Co: Writer is a talking word prediction program that lets users express their thoughts in writing. It can be used in conjunction with a word processor as well as with e-mail and the Web. As you start typing a word, possible word choices display. You can select the correct word by: (a) number, (b) clicking on the word, or (c) scanning. It also allows you to begin words phonetically.
OnScreen Keyboard
RJ Cooper's onscreen keyboard contains images of a standard or modified keyboard. These images may be activated with a mouse, touch screen, trackball, switch, or electronic pointing device, allowing the user to enter text into any application.
AT information provided by the WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities
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