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Accessible software

What makes software accessible?

Many software packages and CD titles can simply be installed to the PC and run without much assistance. Unfortunately they are usually the pieces of software which can not be edited or adapted in any way to suit either the visual or learning needs of the child. Many concepts developed within the early learning phase are based on visual concepts; 'match these colours' or 'find all the red ones', for example. Software that relies heavily on visual concepts should be avoided as they may be outside of the pupil's direct experiences.

Suitability of software

The nature of the visual impairment will obviously have a major effect on the accessibility and suitability of a piece of software. Where a child has functional vision, much can be done to a standard PC to ensure that the child's visual needs can best be met. This may be as simple as changing the pointer size or text for Menus or for example with a word processor, changing icon size, Menu bar content, and style of font. Consideration's when evaluating the suitability of a piece of software are:

• Can the appearance of the screen be adapted and enhanced?
• Can colours be changed?
• Can font sizes be altered?
• Can the content of the software be edited to better suit the needs of the child?

For a child with no useful vision there are more technical considerations to be made when thinking about software or CD titles. Many children who are blind use speech output systems to access software but not all applications are accessible to screen readers. Software that is highly graphical will not be read by a screen reader, as there is a need for 'text' to make sense of a screen's content.

Purchasing software

Before purchasing software the following questions need to be asked:

• What does the child need to use a computer for?
• Is this the most appropriate tool?
• Can the software be edited to take into account the specific learning or visual needs of the learner?
• Is the software appropriate to the age of the child?
• Is there a clear understanding of what the software will achieve?
• How will their visual impairment cause difficulties seeing the screen or using the mouse?
• What software is available at school?
• Who will support the child when using the software?
• How comfortable is the teacher, LSA or parent using technology themselves?
• Will extra training be necessary?

Irrespective of rapid advancement and development, it must be acknowledged that technology still cannot overcome all difficulties. The benefits of technology can only be realised when careful consideration is given to assessment of the needs of individuals, training for staff and pupils, and appropriate selection of resources.

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If you would like to share your experiences about Accessible Software with others, please send us your write-up at inspiration@eyeway.org. We shall include it as part of our website.

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