Standards for Computer Access on Campus
In an effort to ensure equal access to all computing facilities on campus, the following software and related tools are suggested. Possible vendors and estimated costs are included for ease of purchase.
- Suggested Windows-based Desktop Technical Specifications:
-
- 2.0 Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo processor
- 1 GB Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM Memory
- 80 GB Hard Drive Storage
- CD-RW/DVD-RW Optical Drives
- Audio Card with Speakers
- PC Microphone
- Windows XP
The following software and peripherals are suggested to accommodate students with visual impairments, cognitive or learning disorders, psychological disorders, mobility impairments and limitations in manual dexterity.
| Software | Suggested Vendor | Unit Price |
|---|---|---|
| MAGic (screen magnification software) | Freedom Scientific | $595.00 |
| JAWS (screen reader software) | Freedom Scientific | $895.00 |
| Kurzweil 3000 (scan-and-read) | Kurzweil Educational Systems | $1,495.00 |
| Dragon Naturally Speaking Preferred | Nuance | $180.00 |
| text HELP! Read & Write (text to speech) | TextHELP! Systems Ltd. | $365.00 |
| Inspiration K-12 | Inspiration software, Inc. | $65.00 |
| Abbyy Fine Reader (OCR) | Abbyy Software House | $ 400.00 |
| Hardware & Peripherals | ||
|---|---|---|
| Scanner (for text to speech software) | Cannon/Epson/HP | $100.00 |
| Ergonomic Adjustable Workstation | Anthro Technology Furniture | $750.00 |
| Mice, Joysticks, Trackballs | Various vendors | $100.00 |
| Alternative Keyboards | Various vendors | $100.00 |
| Microphone and Headsets | Various vendors | $40.00 |
| Monitor (21 inch or larger) | Various vendors | $600.00 |
Resources: Web Page Accessibility
- W3C
- Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI): http://www.w3.org/WAI/
- The University of Georgia Web Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities
- Specific web accessibility guidelines for the Board of Regents University System of Georgia: http://www.eits.uga.edu/webhelp/wai/
Direct questions to Dr. Karen Kalivoda: voda@uga.edu
- JAWS 9.0
- JAWS for Windows is a powerful accessibility solution that reads information on your screen using synthesized speech. JAWS provides many useful commands that make it easier to use programs, edit documents, and read Web pages. With a refreshable Braille display, JAWS can also provide Braille output in addition to, or instead of, speech. An array of versatile features and customizable options lets you tailor JAWS for your individual needs and preferences.
- MAGic 10.5
- MAGic combines great magnification features with true low vision screen reading when purchased with the speech option. It gives you the ability to choose the information you want read from the screen as you navigate your applications. MAGic is easy to use with its talking large print installation, color-coded user interface, and hot keys that avoid conflicts with Windows® and popular software applications.
- Kurzweil 3000 LearnStation
- Kurzweil 3000 is the comprehensive reading, writing and learning software solution for any struggling reader, including individuals with learning difficulties, such as dyslexia, attention deficit disorder, or those who are English Language Learners. Kurzweil 3000 LearnStation allows users to open previously scanned documents as well as other electronic documents. Kurzweil 3000 LearnStation provides the same powerful reading, writing, and learning tools as the Kurzweil 3000 Professional product.
- Inspiration v8.0
- Powered by the proven strategies of visual learning, Inspiration is the essential tool students rely on to plan, research and complete projects successfully. With the integrated Diagram and Outline Views, they create graphic organizers, develop ideas, and expand topics into writing. As a result, students gain and retain a better understanding of concepts and demonstrate knowledge, improving their performance across the curriculum.
- TextHelp Read&Write v8.1
- Read&Write 8.1 is a literacy support tool designed to assist users of all ages who require extra assistance when reading or composing text. Read & Write 8.1 offers support functionality frequently absent in mainstream MS Windows applications. In addition, it provides a host of study features to assist any user with research & composition. The software works with all mainstream Windows applications. This offers users with literacy difficulties the opportunity to work in an inclusive manner alongside their peers and colleagues.
- Dragon Naturally Speaking v9.0
- Dragon NaturallySpeaking Preferred 9 gives users the power to create documents, reports, e-mails and more-all by speaking. Fast, easy and amazingly accurate, it is over three times faster than typing. Just use your voice to dictate and edit in Microsoft Word and Excel, Corel WordPerfect, and virtually all Windows-based applications. You can even dictate into a handheld device when you are away from your PC, or use a Bluetooth microphone. It has never been easier to use.
- abbyy FineReader v8.0
- abbyy FineReader is an intelligent and easy-to-use OCR (Optical Character Recognition) and PDF conversion software that is the optimal alternative to manual data entry and typing. It is an ideal choice for professionals that want to save time and effort while producing excellent results. It provides powerful functionality for converting images received from a scanner, a digital camera or by fax, as well as PDF files, into editable and searchable formats. The program accurately retains formatting and layout of documents and supports a wide range of recognition languages and output file formats.