I thought about the Pledge of Allegiance today when we were discussing computer acceissibility. The Pledge promises liberty and justice for all. . .but has that always been the case? I cannot help but think about the barriers that those with disabilities have faced throughout time. I cannot recall blind or deaf students, or even students with physical disabilities attending school with me as a youngster. Where were they? I mean they had to have existed and been living amongst the able bodies children. Interestingly enough, I do recall an influx of children with walkers, wheelchairs, deafness, and other disabilities during my freshman year in high school. They left class early to avoid the crowded hallways and took different gym classes. I now realize they were brought in out of the shadows because of the original IDEA laws enacted around that time.
I wonder, though, how much progress would have been made in terms of accessibility without the advent of computers. It seems as if computes and the internet have heralded in a new age for those who used to be delagated to the sidelines. Simple features, such as the ability to change accessibility options or computer settings can make all the difference for those with vison, hearing, or physical impairments. For instance, changing the resolution of the computer screen can increase the size of everything viewed on the screen. Changes with the keys can help those with one finger, one hand, or even those who rely on mouthpieces to type, utilize the keyboard more effectively. These changes are almost magical. The beauty of computers and the internet is that it levels the playing field. When I instant message or email someone half a continent away I do not necessarily know about the abilities or disabilities of the person to whom I am communicating.
Times keep a changing. . .and fortunately for all of us so does technology. I feel as though we are merely standing on the edge of a vast frontier full of new and exciting discoveries and innovative tools that will usher in a nation and a world with accessiblity to all.
Tracy
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1 comment:
Tracy you bring up many good points. I remember elementary school and I think there was one student in a whhel chair (then again special education was a new concept for schools in the early 60's). I never focused on handicap accesibility until I worked with someone who had MS and he rode in an electronic buggy. Most of the issues were thought about was wheter ot not he could get places, but it took me a while to realize that he needed technical assistance when it cam to writing and using the phone and using the computer.
There have been significant gains, but I believe we have a VERY long way to go.
James
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