Assistive Technology, Accessibility, and Inclusion

Assistive Technology Overview

Assistive technology (AT) is technology that helps people with disabilities to accomplish tasks by improving or enhancing their functional capabilities. For example, a blind person might use an application that converts written text to audible speech, a deaf person might rely on captions to participate in online meetings, and a person with limited motor control might use a keyboard or joystick in place of a mouse.

Regarding digital content, AT can make it possible for people to interact effectively with digital documents, websites and applications, operating systems, software, and other electronic and information technology. People with different needs use different kinds of AT. Examples of assistive technology for computer users include screen readers, magnification software, speech recognition software, touch screens, Braille displays, and other alternative input and display options.

AT plays an important role in digital accessibility and inclusion. However, AT only works with systems that are designed and built with accessibility in mind. Those who develop, procure, or provide digital content or tools should review them for accessibility, and address any issues before publishing or sharing that technology.