Providing Access to Computers & Using What You Have

In the very beginning of my blog, I opened up my discussion and everyone to the idea of UDL principles used in the classroom. In hindsight, UDL provides just like in its name, a "Universal", way of learning for all students. In order for UDL concepts to be fully integrated into instruction, a teacher must adhere to certain principles as defined by the UDL layout.


Given the fact that computers are a big part of our world nowadays and we use them religiously in our classrooms to help aide in the learning process, its important for us to focus on the importance of them. For students with disabilities, computers take on a whole new meaning!

UDL's second principal, flexibility in use, has been incorporated in many operating systems to benefit students with disabilities. The four guidelines under flexibility in use include 1.)provide choices in method of use, 2.) accommodate right and left-handed users, 3.) take into account variations along the precision and accuracy of computer users, and 4.) adaptability to the user's pace. Fine motor control difficulties, limited range of motion, and visual impairments are typical characteristics of students who would benefit greatly from the flexibility that today's computers that are made with UDL principles have.


Students with sensory impairments including visual impairments/blindness or hard of hearing/deafness often require modifications on their computer to assist them in communicating. Higher visual contrast and font size than the standard size display should be given to students that exhibit certain visual impairments. This modification is a high-contrast color scheme-black background with white lettering, or white background with black lettering. Students with hard of hearing/deafness should use the beeps, tones, and voiced messages on computers. Operating systems such as Mac OS X and Windows 7 provide accessibility controls to replace auditory prompts and signals with visual signals, icons, or captions. 

Resources:

Dell, Amy G., Newton, Deborah A., Jerry G. Petroff. (2012). Assistive Technology in the Classroom:Enhancing the School Experiences of Students with Disabilities. Chapter 7-Providing Access to Computers & Using What You Want (pp. 163-172).