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Accessible Technology: Networking, Sharing & Building Your Toolbox

Welcome! Today we'll explore accessible technology tools, share experiences, and build practical strategies together.

Presenter: Terisa O'Dowd, Instructional Accessibility Designer, �Texas Woman’s University

Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for joining me today at the Accessing Higher Ground Conference.

�My name is Terisa O’Dowd, and I am an Instructional Accessibility Designer at Texas Woman’s University in the Dallas, Texas area.

�I’m delighted to be here with all of you to talk about something I’m deeply passionate about — Accessible Technology.��The goal of today’s session is simple: to learn from each other. I’ll be sharing an overview of how accessible and assistive technologies are evolving, and then we’ll spend time networking and sharing the tools that have made a difference in our own work and in the lives of those we serve.� �We’ll spend about 45 minutes together, followed by 5-10 minutes of Q&A. I encourage you to ask questions, share insights, and connect with others who care about accessibility just as much as you do.� �Let’s begin.

�

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Purpose & Agenda

01

Introduction

Welcome and context setting

02

Examples

Explore tools across categories

03

Discussion

Small group collaboration

04

Share-Out

Learn from each other

05

Wrap-Up

Takeaways and next steps

Your active participation makes this session valuable—let's learn together!

Here’s a quick look at what we’ll be doing today.��First, we’ll set the stage by defining accessible technology and exploring why it matters in today’s rapidly evolving digital world.��Then, we’ll look at some key examples and emerging trends that are shaping accessibility across multiple domains — from AI-driven innovations to cognitive supports and adaptive devices.��After that, we’ll move into small group discussions where you’ll get a chance to talk with peers about the tools you use and what’s working well in your organization.��We’ll wrap up by sharing those insights as a large group and highlighting some key takeaways.� �Throughout the session, I encourage you to jot down any ideas or tools you hear that might be useful back at your campus or workplace.

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What is Accessible/Assistive Technology?

Technology that enables individuals with functional limitations to perform daily tasks, access information, and participate fully in education and work

Vision

Screen readers, magnification, contrast tools

Hearing

Captions, transcription, visual alerts

Mobility

Adaptive devices, voice control, switches

Cognition

Reading support, organization, focus aids

Neurodivergence

Memory tools, sensory management, structure

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Categories & Functional Areas

Vision

Screen readers, magnifiers, high contrast, text-to-speech

Productivity

Universal design features benefiting all users

Hearing

Live captions, transcription services, visual notifications

Mobility

Voice commands, adaptive keyboards, eye-tracking systems

Cognition

Reading assistance, organizational tools, memory aids

Key Insight: Modern technology increasingly overlaps categories—tools designed for accessibility often enhance productivity and usability for everyone

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Examples – Vision, Hearing & Productivity

Vision Support

JAWS: Leading screen reader for Windows

NVDA: Free, open-source screen reader

Seeing AI: Mobile app describing surroundings

Hearing Support

Otter.ai: Real-time transcription and notes

Veed.io: Video platform with auto-captions

Productivity Tools

Microsoft Accessibility Checker: Document compliance

Built-in OS features: Voice control, dictation

Universal benefit: These tools enhance communication, note-taking, and content creation for all users, not just those with disabilities

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Examples: Cognition/Neurodivergent Needs

Read&Write

Word prediction and speech feedback supporting writing �challenges and dyslexia

Focus@Will

Neuroscience-based music channels enhancing concentration �for ADHD and focus difficulties

Ghotit

Advanced spell-checker designed specifically for dyslexia �and dysgraphia

Tover

Interactive projection games supporting cognitive engagement �and memory

These tools provide essential support for executive function, attention management, reading/writing challenges, �and memory enhancement

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Examples – Mobility & Physical Access

Adaptive Mobility

Power wheelchairs, exoskeletons, smart mobility devices, ergonomic workstations

Input Alternatives

One-handed keyboards, eye-gaze systems, switch controls, adaptive mice

Voice Activation

Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant—hands-free device control and smart home integration

Focus on independence: Smart environments and adaptive technologies enable autonomy in learning, working, and daily living

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Emerging Trends & Innovation

AI-Driven Accessibility

Machine learning powering real-time image description, contextual assistance, predictive text

Wearable Tech

Smart glasses, haptic devices, health monitors providing �seamless support

AR/VR Experiences

Immersive learning, spatial audio, accessible �virtual environments

Inclusive Design

Accessibility built-in from the start, not added later

Be My AI

Virtual assistant describing �visual information through AI

Seeing AI

Mobile app narrating the world �for blind users

Smart Glasses

Real-time translation, navigation, �object recognition

Let’s shift our focus to the future.��Artificial intelligence and wearable technologies are transforming accessibility. AI can now describe images, generate captions, and even help interpret emotion or tone.��We’re also seeing exciting progress in AR and VR — virtual and augmented reality tools that make immersive learning possible for students with disabilities. (Apple Vision Pro is a mixed-reality (MR) headset that combines both augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) capabilities. It can blend virtual content with your real-world environment, but it can also block out the real world completely for a fully immersive virtual experience).��At the same time, inclusive design principles are influencing everything from app development to policy. Accessibility is no longer an afterthought — it’s an innovation driver.��I’d love to ask — who here has experimented with AI tools like Be My AI or Microsoft Copilot for accessibility purposes? (pause for hands)

�It’s inspiring to see so many of you exploring what’s next.

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Small Group Discussion

1

Form Groups

Organize into groups (3–5 people)

2

Share Experiences

What accessible technologies do you currently use or recommend?

3

Identify Challenges

What barriers or gaps have you encountered?

4

Generate Ideas

What innovative solutions might address these challenges?

Time allocation: 10 minutes for discussion. �Choose one key insight to share with the full group.

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Group Share-Out

1

Share one key tool or practice

What accessibility solution resonated with your group?

2

Highlight challenges addressed

What problem does this tool solve effectively?

3

Offer implementation insights

What advice would you give others adopting this tool?

Ideas will be captured on our shared Padlet board for everyone's reference

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Key Takeaways & Toolbox

Network & Assess

Collaborate with colleagues, assess user needs regularly, stay curious

Innovation Benefits All

Accessible design improves usability, productivity, and experience for everyone

Keep Learning

Technology evolves rapidly—continuous learning and sharing keep us effective

"Accessibility is not a feature. It's a fundamental aspect of inclusive education and a civil right."

Your growing toolbox empowers students, staff, and faculty to participate fully in campus life

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Action Steps & Resources

1

Identify One New Tool

Choose one technology from today's session �to explore or implement

2

Connect with Peers

Exchange contact info, join ongoing accessibility �communities

3

Access Shared Resources

Scan QR code for comprehensive tool list, guides, �and support materials

Scan for resources →

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Let's Connect!

Q&A & Networking

Questions & Discussion

Do you have any additional questions, challenges or thoughts you would like us to discuss?

Stay Connected

Email:�todowd1@twu.edu

LinkedIn: terisaodowd

Thank you for your engagement and commitment to assistive technology!