Accessible Computing Facilities

As the project established contacts with disability organisations, information providers and computer centres it rapidly became clear that the issues involved with independent access were not being addressed.
Although there are an ever-increasing number of access points with schools and libraries etc., linking up to the Information Super Highway, there are little or no allowances for differing user needs. Whilst there are centres, organisation and projects that support disabled peoples' access to a range of services, including the Internet, the vast majority simply do not cater for differing access.

To ensure that computer facilities, electronic village hall, telecottages etc are accessible, they should be working towards the concept of Universal Design.

Currently the design and resourcing of facilities are only aimed at the 'average' user but they should be taking into account the broad range of abilities that people have. This is particularly important with public access facilities that are to play a greater role under, for example, the National Grid for Learning and the Life Long Learning initiatives.

As more disabled people undertake educational and vocational training the issue of access is becoming more important. It appears that presently the idea of access is confined to the area of ramps and doors rather than equal access to facilities and usage.

It may be deemed 'unreasonable' to expect that a computing facility to have every piece of equipment possible to ensure complete access but they should make equipment available that can easily be anticipated for use, and/or is available at relatively low cost. In addition to this there should be a process to react to demands for extra equipment that is not available.

The checklists below can be taken as starting point in making facilities universally accessible.

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Reference

DO-IT: Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking & Technology: http://weber.u.weashington.edu/~doit

Checklists for Implementing Accessibility in Computer Laboratories at Colleges and Universities Trace Research and Development Centre: http://trace.wisc.edu/gofr_web/162.html

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Contact Details

Any feedback and suggestions are welcome. Further details of the project's activities can be obtained from:

Alex McDonald
Project Manager – 'On-Line'
Email: alex@toucan-europe.co.uk

Toucan Europe
Tanzaro House
Ardwick Green North
Manchester
M12 6FZ
Tel/Fax: 0161 273 5122

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Checklists

1. Facility Preparation
2. Low Cost/ Time Measures
3. Moderate Cost/ Time Measures
4. Annual Budget Measures

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