This course will explore the variety of assistive and universally designed technologies available to enable a person with a disability to use a computer. Through lecture and hands-on experiences, students will learn about technologies ranging from alternative keyboards and mice to voice control, and from magnification to Braille displays. Students will also learn best practices in evaluation of computer access needs, and application to work, educational, and home situations.

• Apply structured assessment methodologies to identify computer access needs for workplace, school, or home use
• Understand the characteristics (e.g., strengths / limitations) of different computer access technologies and strategies for people with motor, vision, or cognitive disabilities
• Be able to use built-in and low-cost computer access tools for people with motor, vision, or cognitive disabilities (Windows PCs)
• Describe how computer technology can help a person with a disability access other applications, including personal organization, communication, and recreation
• Be able to create macros and use other shortcuts to automate computer tasks (Windows PCs)
• Identify national, state, and local resources for assessing and implementing computer-related accommodations

• Assessment of Accommodation Needs
• Computer Access Technology
• Computer Applications
• Emerging Technology / Implications
• Resources

Students will each receive a handbook of slides, hard-copy handouts, and resources for accommodations.

• Karen Milchus
• Robert Todd

This course is an elective for the Workplace Accommodations and Home Modifications Certificate.