How Technology Empowers People With Disabilities in the Workforce

Guest blog post was written by Jenny Wise of Special Home Educator

Advances in assistive technology have not only improved the quality of life for those who are living with disabilities; they've also empowered those people to pursue careers that would previously have been out of reach for them. From mobility aids to devices that support the neurodivergent and those with sensory challenges, there are tools to level the playing field for people facing a variety of challenges.

Remote Learning Helps People Hone Their Skills Anywhere

Remote learning isn't a new concept, but it's one that has become far more accessible in recent years. Many universities now support remote learning, and online course platforms offer another route for studying from home. If you're interested in earning a degree in computer science, there are numerous platforms offering you the chance to learn about logic, data structures, systems architecture, AI, and other areas of computing. It's easier than ever for you to study without having to go to a traditional campus in Tampa, FL, and it opens you to growing opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) careers.

Many online universities have websites that are built with accessibility in mind, offering text-to-speech readers, magnifiers, touch and voice control options, and closed-captioning on lectures. This kind of inclusive design helps everyone make the most of their studies.

Assistive Devices Remove Physical Barriers

Whether you're living with a disability that causes mobility issues or your challenges take a different form, you'll likely find high-tech aids that improve your opportunities for both work and play. Data analyst Otto Knoke is living with the effects of ALS and is able to manage his own business and work with BI software thanks to eye-tracking software. Knoke is unable to walk and has also lost the use of his hands and arms, but he can still engage with the world digitally.

Flexible Communication for a Diverse Workforce

Not all disabilities are visible ones. If you're living with autism, ADHD, or a similar diagnosis, you may find some employers aren't sure how to accommodate your needs. The recent trend toward working from home has helped many neurodiverse people become more productive. Having multiple options such as real-time zoom meetings, email, and text-based chat can help make communication less stressful.

Aids for Those With Poor Vision

If you have poor eyesight, there are many tools and applications that can make life easier. Today there are smartwatches for the visually impaired, as well as applications that can transcribe Zoom meetings. Using these tools can help you work and communicate more efficiently. Most modern software is highly customizable via themes or style sheets, so you can use larger text or different colors to make it easier to see the parts of the screen that are important to you.

Technology Levels the Playing Field

If you're living with a disability, using assistive technologies and specialist software could help to level the playing field for you in the workplace. Take advantage of being able to work or study from home in an environment adapted to your needs, whether in Tampa, FL, or elsewhere. Find more resources and accommodations to excel in your personal life or a career you love by visiting the Uniqueli MADE website.

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