Technology and Disability

Being technologically competent has become an avenue to academic and career success. Computer technology is one of the most powerful tools available to individuals with disabilities. Technology, including computers, adaptive technology, and the Internet, can help maximize independence, productivity and participation. It can lead to high levels of success—personally, socially, academically, and professionally. As reported by successful individuals with disabilities:

• The computer helps me organize my thoughts. I can read and make improvements with ease. I can check all of my papers for spelling errors before I send them. I am a really BAD speller. (high school student with a learning disability)
• I use a combination of a palmtop note-taker computer and a desktop computer to write. Without them I'd be lost. (college student with mobility and health impairment)
• Without computers or the Net I would not be doing many things that I'm doing today. For instance, I am involved in a writing forum on the Net that lets writers talk about writing and share their pieces of literature with each other. Since I want to be a writer this has been very helpful. (high school student with Dyslexia and Attention Deficit Disorder)
• One of my two or three best friends—maybe best next to my wife—and I met on the Internet, and we are not only friends but close working colleagues. (professor who is blind)
• Technology is not a nicety; it is a necessity. Get it, learn it, and use it. (college student who is blind)

"Don't allow your disABILITY to shut you out of life; your request for Access has been Granted"