spg09_p1

One thing that makes it easier to marginalize groups of people is to not actually know them. The first thing, then, that we want to do is meet some real, live people who live with various disabilities. We'll get to know a little about what their disability is like, and then we'll be introduced to assistive technologies that help make some aspect of their lives easier.

In all, there is 36 minutes of video here. It is worth the time it takes to watch.

Process Task #1
//Before you watch these videos, I want you to answer this question:// 1. Do you know anyone with a disability? What is their disability and what technologies (from "low tech" to "high tech") do they use to aid them in overcoming their disability?

//As you watch these videos and afterward, answer the following questions:// 2. List 10 assistive technologies that you are introduced to (e.g., screen readers, etc.). 3. Who were the two people who stood out most for you as you viewed these? Why?

**__Video 2__:** **Working Together: People with Disabilities and Computer Technology ** (14 minutes)
[|View with Windows Media Player]. [|View with Real Player]. //A great overview of a wide range of adaptive and assistive technologies as well as the perspectives of real users of those technologies.//

**__Video 3__: Access to Technology in the Workplace: In Our Own Words ** (12 minutes)
[|View with Windows Media Player]. [|View with Real Player]. //3 working professionals explain how assistive technologies helps them complete their work.//

__Video 4__: The Sound of Learning: Albano Berberi (9 minutes)
media type="custom" key="3600562" "Assistive technology helps a blind computer science student and devoted gamer pursue his passions" ([|Edutopia]).

The Next Step
Okay, so you've made the acquaintance of various people. Now, let's go and make sure we understand some key terminology.

Onward, to **P2 ** (**Process Task #2**)!