Adapting Technology
Can I take an Internet course if I have a disability?
Yes! Learning at a distance can accommodate people with a range of disabilities. Begin by checking with the Vocational Services or Vocational Education Department of the local community college to determine how the preferred setting can be equipped or enhanced with assistive technology to provide access to an Internet course.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) defines assistive technology as any item, piece of equipment, or product system used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Persons with disabilities may require the use of assistive technology to access an Internet course.
Assistive technology commonly used in conjunction with an Internet course includes:
A brief alphabetical list of assistive technology resources follows below.
Assistive Technology-Disability Homepage: http://showcase.netins.net/web/atforum/
Alliance for Technology Access (ATA): http://www.ataccess.org
Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST): http://www.cast.org/
Center for IT Accommodation: http://www.itpolicy.gsa.gov/cita/
Closing the Gap, Inc.: http://www.closingthegap.com
National Center to Improve Practice in Special Education through Technology, Media and Materials: http://www2.edc.org/NCIP/LIBRARY/VI/Manuf.htm
The Center for Best Practices in Early Childhood Education: http://www.wiu.edu/users/mimacp/wiu/
V. I. Guide (Resources for the Visually Impaired): http://www.viguide.com
W3C Web Accessibility Initiative: http://www.w3.org/WAI/
WebABLE Database of Accessibility Resources: http://www.webable.com/