Access and Equity > Guidelines > Computer accessibility

Adaptive strategies and assistive technologies can make computers and their applications accessible to a wider audience.

SLIR Online contains information on the provision of adaptive and assistive technology for a number of services in Scotland.

Best practice

AbilityNet

AbilityNet provides an interactive guide called 'My computer, my way', which helps to demonstrate the ways in which a computer can be customised to meet a person's specific needs.

W3C: How people with disabilities use the web

Provides an introduction to use of the Web by people with disabilities, illustrating some of their requirements when using Web sites and Web-based applications.

W3C Web Content Accessibility guidelines Working Group

W3C's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines Working Group (WCAG) page contains information on the group and its meetings, current work and publications This includes its working draft of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0. The checkpoints in the draft explain how to make web content more accessibly to users with disabilities.

TechDis - Technology Database

Database from the JISC TechDis service intended to provide an online resource of information and products available to assist disabled students and staff.

RNIB Technology Information Sheet List

Royal National Institute of Blind People, provides a set of IT fact sheets including: developing keyboard skills; how to produce braille and tactile images; using a computer with low vision; using the Internet; and what is an electronic reading aid?

Government guidelines

e-Envoy Web handbook - Building in universal accessibility

'Building in Universal Accessibility' ensures a website is developed to serve the largest possible audience using the broadest range of systems.

Practical information

Adaptive Technology Resource Centre (ATRC)

ATRC, based at the University of Toronto, aims to help ensure that emerging information technology and practices are designed inclusively from the very beginning. Its online resources include: tutorials to aid in installation and use of various common adaptive softwares; workshop handouts; and a technical glossary.

SNOW (Special Needs Ontario Window)

SNOW is a provider of online resources and professional development opportunities for educators and parents of students with special needs It offers news, resources, commentary and online courses on special education, adaptive technologies, inclusive design, and web accessibility. It is an educational outreach service of the Adaptive Technology Resource Centre (ATRC) at the University of Toronto.

Microsoft - Accessibility Information

Microsoft offers accessibility information on all of its Office and Windows products.

ATutor: Learning Content Management System

ATutor is an Open Source Learning Content Management System (LCMS) designed with accessibility and adaptability in mind.

Keytools

Keytools supplies a range of computer equipment, specially chosen for education or users with special needs. Sign up for their newsletter with details of new adaptive technologies.

Browsealoud

Browsealoud, from Text Help, is a speech enabling service which makes web content accessible to anyone with reading difficulties.