The computer I have been using for this class is a MacBook Pro laptop. The apple operating system has many different features that make the computer more accessible.
Visual Disabilities
Physical Limitations
Audio Limitations
Visual Disabilities
- Voice Over – this feature will read the type on the screen for you. If you are blind, or cant see well, having the computer read the screen out loud can be very helpful. Also, if you have a reading comprehension issue, getting the text read aloud can allow you to still receive the material in text but not have to struggle with reading the material.
- Zoom – The zoom feature can zoom part of the screen, making it easier to see selected portions of the screen.
- Contrast Options – this feature allows the user to change the color contrast of the computer screen. It makes it easier for the user to look at the screen without being distracted by how the screen looks.
- Change the cursor size – Users that cant see very well can make the cursor bigger so it is easier to see.
Physical Limitations
- Dictation – this feature allows the user to speak and the operating system will input the text to a text editor.
- Mouse Keys – this feature allows the user to have mouse functions without having to be able to move the mouse. It uses the number keys on an external keyboard to move the mouse in various directions.
- Onscreen keyboard – if the user has trouble typing, they can use their mouse to select keys to type on the onscreen keyboard.
Audio Limitations
- iMessages – this texting application would allow a user to carry on a conversation with another person with having to be able to hear what they are saying.
- Screen Flash – Instead of playing an alert tone that the user would not be able to hear, the screen will make a small flash that that gives a visual alert of the notification.