A Comparison of postsecondary students with disabilities and service providers : views about computer and information technologies

Abstract

"This report discusses a study involving 37 Canadian college and university students with disabilities and 30 Disabled Student Services (DSS) personnel that explored the use of computers in postsecondary education. Students were enrolled in community and junior colleges, universities, and postsecondary distance education institutions. Results indicated: (1) about half of the student sample had 2 or more impairments, suggesting the need for adapted work stations which can accommodate the needs of students with various disabilities; (2) in spite of their smaller numbers, students who are blind had the largest array of technologies at their disposal; (3) voice input software and scanners were found to be used not only by students with learning disabilities, but also by those who have a variety of impairments involving mobility and use of hands and arms; (4) service providers were using the Internet as a means of getting information about what equipment and adaptations are out there for students, and students were primarily teaching themselves how to use the equipment; (5) smaller institutions were less likely to have specialized computer technologies for their students; and (6) about half of the students surveyed did not know that funding programs existed to help them to obtain needed equipment. (CR)" -- ERIC