There are many devices that are useful for people with vision impairment to access information. The following pages will provide current and up-to-date information about the technology that is available to assist your clients to access the school curriculum or their work requirements.

Product information, links to free downloads and ‘eye tea’ reviews have been provided for the following categories of access technology and equipment.

• Input Devices: Visual, Speech and Tactile
• Output Devices: Visual, Speech and Tactile
• Braille Production
• Use of the Internet
• Customising mainstream technology

Please also visit our Teaching Resources section, including the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Foundation’s Framework for implementing technology. Although this is designed for young children, it is transferable to all ages.  Vision Australia also have information on their website about customising workplaces and career planning. They also offer workplace assessments for people with vision impairment.

Each person with vision impairment will have individual needs, depending on their vision and presence of other disabilities. While we endeavour to provide as much information as possible on this website, this information does not replace professional advice. It is extremely important to have a functional vision assessment and a technology assessment to ensure people with vision impairments are able to access information to participate as independently as possible in their home, school or work and community.

References:

Blatch, P., Nagal, G., & Cruickshank, L. (1998). Current Practices and Future Trends. In P. Kelley & G. Gale (Eds.), Towards Excellence (pp. 17-32). North Rocks, Sydney: RIDBC.