The Ontario Digital Accessibility Communication Standards
Assistive, Adaptive and Mainstream Technologies
Adaptive technologies refer to tools, devices, software, or equipment that has been adapted to assist individuals with disabilities in performing tasks that might otherwise be challenging or impossible for them.Assistive technology is designed to address the specific needs of people with disabilities, aiming to enhance their accessibility and independence.
Mainstream technologies aim to enhance the quality of life for people with and without disabilities.
Assistive Technologies
Screen readers are software programs that convert text displayed on a computer screen into synthesized speech or Braille output. They help individuals with visual impairments access digital content, including websites and documents.
Braille displays are electronic refreshible tactile devices that convert digital text into Braille characters, enabling blind individuals to read and interact with digital content.
Braille embosser devices create tactile documents with raised Braille characters on thick paper, making it possible for blind individuals to produce Braille materials independently.
Eye-tracking technology enables people with severe mobility impairments to control computers and devices by tracking their eye movements.
Hearing aids and copular devices assist individuals with hearing impairments by amplifying sounds or directly stimulating the auditory nerve to improve hearing.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices are communication aids that help people with speech or language disorders communicate. They can include speech-generating devices, picture-based communication boards, or software apps.
Powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters provide mobility and independence to individuals with mobility impairments, allowing them to move around indoors and outdoors.
Adaptive Technologies
Captioning and subtitle technologies provide textual representations of spoken dialogue and other audio information in videos and TV programs, making them accessible to people with hearing impairments.
TTS software reads aloud digital text, making written content accessible to individuals with visual or reading disabilities.
Voice recognition or speech-to-text software allows individuals with mobility impairments or limited dexterity to control their computers, write documents, and send messages by speaking instead of typing.
Adaptive keyboard and mouse devices are specialized input devices designed with features such as larger keys, keyguards, or ergonomic designs to accommodate individuals with motor impairments or limited hand dexterity.
Screen magnifiers enlarge on-screen content, making it easier for individuals with low vision to read text and view graphical elements.
Screen filter applications and devices reduce screen glare, adjust color contrast, or apply color filters to accommodate individuals with visual sensitivities or specific visual conditions.
Various smart home devices, like voice-controlled assistant Amazon Echo or Google Home, can help individuals with disabilities manage their homes more independently.
Adaptive Strategies
The purpose of any technology or tool that adapts or adjusts to meet the needs of a specific user or situation. This can include modifications or enhancements that benefit not only individuals with disabilities but also anyone seeking a personalized or customized experience.
Flexibility is a design feature that allows tools to be adaptable. Adaptive technology can be applied to various contexts beyond disability-related adaptations. For example, adaptive technology can include features like responsive web design that adjusts a website's layout based on the user's device or preferences.
Personalization often focuses on tailoring technology to suit an individual's preferences or requirements, even if they do not have a specific disability.
mainstream technologies
Mainstream technology refers to technology products, devices, or solutions that are widely accepted, used, and integrated into everyday life by the general population.These technologies are not specialized or niche; instead, they are typically characterized by their broad appeal and adoption across various demographic groups and industries.
Examples of mainstream technologies include smartphones, personal computers, tablets, social media platforms, email services, web browsers, and widely used software applications like Microsoft Office.
Mainstream technologies are commonly adopted by a large portion of the population. They are not limited to specific user groups or specialized applications.
Mainstream technologies are readily available and accessible to consumers, businesses, and organizations. They are often affordable and easy to acquire.
Mainstream technologies are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. They require minimal training or expertise to operate effectively.
They are typically compatible with other mainstream technologies and standards, making it easy to integrate them into existing systems or networks.
Manufacturers and developers of mainstream technologies invest in ongoing research and development to improve their products, add new features, and stay competitive in the market.
Mainstream technologies are often designed with consumer needs and preferences in mind, aiming to appeal to a broad audience.