UD Features that Facilitate Computer Access

Computer designs that follow the UD principle of flexibility are most useful for students with disabilities. The following design features help students with a variety of disabilities:

• The option of using a keyboard or mouse offers access to students who have difficulty controlling a mouse including those with fine motor control difficulties, limited range of motion, or visual impairments.
• Computers that can be controlled by voice help students with motor control issues, muscle weakness, or vision impairment.
• Text-to-speech options benefit students with reading disabilities and ADHD.
• Computer accommodations for left and right hand users help students who may only have the use of one hand.
• Enlarging the size of the icons and the ability to adjust the speed of the mouse helps students with hand/eye coordination problems, visual impairments, hand tremors, motor control issues, or cognitive difficulties. 
• Systems that can adapt to the user's pace benefit students who have difficulty with visual tracking, executing precise movements, and fine motor control issues.