Computer Technology and the Physically Disabled

Abstract

Computer technology is providing diverse opportunities for businesses to increase productivity and revenue. In particular, computers have become a mainstay in our work places, our schools, and our homes. While this “news” is no great revelation, the fact that opportunities for everyone exist is nothing short of a miracle Why this declaration? Because computer technology has reached every group of people, including the physically disabled and learning impaired. Computers now empower the physically disabled to meet the challenges they face on more nearly equal terms, eliminating or reducing restrictions on their education, career, and entertainment choices. And many of these innovative variations on the technological theme, like those of the space program, are equally applicable to the workaday world of the rest of us. Which of us wouldn't rather talk to our computers than have to type in commands (The Voice Navigator enables Macintosh users to do this) or have our computer “read” to us as we proofread against the original copy, instead of shifting our focus between paper and screen repeatedly?

The voice as computer interface: a look at tomorrow's technologies

“…Certainly voice-based systems are gaining more attention in library-related meetings and journals. In 1989 the University of Wisconsin-Stout sponsored a conference entitled 'Librarability: Access for All', addressing the use of enabling technologies, including voice systems that could enhance access to library computer systems (Edwards 1989a).…”