Microsoft Assistive Technology Products Brought to you by... Jill Hartman

Who does Microsoft Offer Products For? People with:  Hearing impairments  Language impairments  Learning impairments  Mobility impairments  Visual impairments

For Hearing Impairments  Voice Recognition Products: converts what is being spoken to sign language, text, or a visual image for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.  TTY/TDD Conversion Modems: used to translate standard computer input and output to Baudot code for an individual who is deaf.

For Language Impairments  Screen Review Utilities: converts the text that appears on the screen into a computer voice; speech may also be paired with a visual representation of a word.  The following are also available and presented on forthcoming slides: ∙Keyboard filters ∙Speech recognition programs ∙Touch screens ∙Speech synthesizers

For Learning Impairments  Word Prediction Programs: allows the user to select vocabulary from a list of words that appears as the computer predicts by the first few letters the user types.  Reading Comprehension Programs: helps to establish or improve reading skills when words are accompanied by graphics, sound, and possibly animation.  Reading Tools and Learning Disabilities Programs: software designed to help those who have difficulty with reading by scanning, reformatting, navigating, or speaking text out loud.

For Mobility Impairments  On-screen Keyboard Programs: provides an image of a standard or modified keyboard on the computer screen; keys are accessed by using a mouse, touch screen, trackball, joystick, switch, or electronic pointing device.  Keyboard Filters: products used to reduce the number of keystrokes.  Touch Screens: devices either placed onto or built into the computer monitor that allow selection or activation of the computer by touching it.  Alternative Input Devices: allows individuals to control their computer through means other than the standard keyboard or pointing device. They include: Alternative keyboards Electronic pointing devices Sip-and-puff systems Wands and sticks Joysticks Trackballs

For Visual Impairments  Screen Readers: transforms a graphic user interface (GUI) into an audio interface.  Screen enlargers/magnifiers: enlarges a portion of the screen for increased legibility.  Speech Recognition Systems: allows people to give a command or enter data by using their voices rather than a mouse or keyboard.  Speech Synthesizers: receives information going onto the screen and then “speaks” it out loud as the user is working.  Refreshable Braille Displays: provides tactile information presented on the screen in Braille form.  Braille Embossers: transfers computer generated text into embossed Braille output.  Talking and Large-Print Word Processors: software programs that use speech synthesizers to provide auditory feedback of what is typed.

Remember... The products listed here are only those that are available through Microsoft Corporation. Keep in mind that there are many other products designed to assist students with accessibility needs. One must consider all of the options before deciding which would best suit the needs of their students.

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