Assistive technology has revolutionized how blind individuals, at all levels of blindness, navigate daily tasks. The creation of electronic magnifiers, screen readers, and other accessible devices provides much-needed independence in a world primarily designed for sighted individuals.
Like all technology, assistive tools for blind and low vision individuals have evolved significantly over time. Dan Woytowitz, an IT expert and Associate at BISM, has witnessed these advancements firsthand, teaching students how to use early forms of screen readers, some of which are still in use today.
“I was teaching blind students at Catonsville Community College how to use what was called the Total Talk Terminal,” Woytowitz recalls. “It connected to the mainframe computer and provided speech output, allowing blind students to perform the same tasks as their sighted peers. It was developed by Maryland Computer Services (MCS), which was owned and operated by Dean Blazey.”
At BISM, many Associates rely on different forms of assistive technology in their daily work. Jacob Schmude, from BISM’s IT department, uses multiple screen readers both in and out of the office.
“On a daily basis, I use NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access), Apple VoiceOver sometimes, and Google TalkBack. On my laptop, I use the Linux operating system with the Orca screen reader,” Schmude explains.
Beyond BISM’s workplace, students in the Independent Training & Rehabilitation (ITR) programs are also learning how to incorporate assistive technology into their lives. Lina Howard, a technology instructor in the C.O.R.E. (Comprehensive Orientation, Rehabilitation, and Empowerment) program, emphasizes the transformative impact of these tools.
“Assistive technology has also been known as access technology for a reason, and that’s because of the improvements it has made to the daily lives of blind people,” Howard says.
Kariza Goncalves, Manager of Job Readiness Programs at BISM, finds assistive technology to be an essential part of her professional and personal life.
“I can say that it has contributed to my confidence because when I know that I can do my job—and do it well—it makes me feel good about my performance,” she says.
She also finds these tools useful outside of work.
“When I go grocery shopping, I record my grocery list. Sometimes, I use my portable CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television), called a Ruby, to zoom in on very small print.”
For Kiara Parker, a student in the C.O.R.E. program, assistive technology has provided newfound independence.
“Using the Ray-Ban Meta glasses helps me use the ATM more easily. Before, I would send someone to the ATM for me.”
Other widely used assistive technologies include JAWS (Job Access With Speech), a popular screen reader that provides speech and Braille output, and refreshable Braille displays, which allow users to read digital text through tactile Braille characters.
BISM’s mission is to empower blind and low vision individuals with the skills, confidence, and resources they need to live and work independently. Assistive technology plays a vital role in achieving this goal by providing access, fostering self-sufficiency, and breaking down barriers in both professional and personal settings. As technology continues to evolve, so too does the potential for greater independence, reinforcing BISM’s commitment to enhancing opportunities for all.
By increasing awareness and understanding of these technologies, BISM continues to advocate for equal opportunities and accessibility for blind and low vision individuals.
For more information about Blind Industries of Services, our training programs and services for blind and low individuals, please visit https://bism.org/.
Assistive Technology Terms and Definitions
- Screen Reader – A software application that converts digital text into speech or Braille output, allowing blind users to navigate and interact with computers and mobile devices.
- JAWS (Job Access With Speech) – A widely used screen reader for Windows computers that provides speech and Braille output, enabling blind users to access digital content.
- NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) – A free, open-source screen reader for Windows that allows users to navigate digital environments using speech and Braille.
- VoiceOver – A built-in screen reader for Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers.
- TalkBack – A screen reader for Android devices that provides spoken feedback to help blind users navigate apps and settings.
- Orca – A screen reader designed for Linux operating systems, offering speech and Braille support.
- CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) – A magnification device that enlarges printed materials on a screen, helping individuals with low vision read text more easily.
- Ruby – A portable electronic magnifier that allows users to zoom in on small print for better readability.
- Ray-Ban Meta Glasses – Smart glasses with built-in assistive features that can aid blind users in tasks such as navigating and accessing digital information.
- Refreshable Braille Display – A device that converts digital text into Braille characters, enabling blind users to read digital content through touch.
- O.R.E. (Comprehensive Orientation, Rehabilitation, and Empowerment) – A program at BISM that provides blindness skills training, including assistive technology, to help individuals gain independence.
- ITR (Independent Training & Rehabilitation) – A BISM program that teaches essential blindness skills, including the use of assistive technology, to promote independence in daily life and work.
