Depending on the nature and severity of the disability, the adaptation might be as simple as stopping the automatic key repeat feature found on many keyboards or as complex as adapting the communicator boards developed for profoundly disabled non-oral persons to function as computer keyboards. A smart word processor analyzes the content and word frequency patterns of the sentence under construction and, based on the first two or three letters of the word or phrase being written, anticipates what the entire word or phrase is likely to be. It then completes the word or phrase with a single keystroke. These systems also provide automatic, continuous spell-checking, correction and instant access to a computerized thesaurus. Using smart word processing systems, moderately to profoundly disabled people can produce written material at a faster pace.
Sighted persons use a variety of techniques in viewing and producing text.
The eye jumps from place to place. A quick glance takes the reader to an interesting sentence or a typing error. Low Vision Individuals with low vision can use the wide gamut of personal computer programs, thanks to adaptations that enlarge screen text and graphics through a wide range of magnifications. This course allows for disability assessment and the matching of appropriate adaptive computer technology. This course may be taken concurrently with the keyboarding class.