Reflection on Assistive Technology

 

Reflection on Assistive Technology: JAWS and Braille Display.

 

Assistive technology plays a crucial role in supporting mobility, communication, learning, vision, hearing and daily activities for individuals with disabilities. Some of the most widely used assistive technologies is JAWS (Job Access With Speech) and Braille Display. JAWS is a screen reader that enables visually impaired individuals to interact with digital content.

Reflecting on JAWS has deepened my understanding of its benefits and its challenges. I found it particularly insightful how JAWS enables visually impaired individuals to access digital textbooks, navigate online learning platforms and participate in research and assignments independently. This fosters inclusivity because regardless of the visual problem, everyone has equal access to resources. I found out that JAWS is more than just a tool; it represents independence. For many individuals, it provides the ability to work, study, and engage with the world on equal footing. This made me realize how important such tools are in fostering digital equality in education and employment.

However, learning about JAWS also made me aware of the barriers that still exist. One major issue is training and affordability. JAWS require individuals to invest time in mastering its functions. There should be educators who are well versed in using this technology and same afford should be given by the learners. Further, the high cost of JAWS makes it inaccessible to many people, emphasizing the need for more affordable assistive tools. Additionally, the lack of accessibility in many educational platforms is another issue. Poorly designed websites, inaccessible PDFs, and software that do not support screen reader pose barriers for individual.

Further, implementation of JAWS in Bhutanese schools faces challenges. One significant concern is affordability, as assistive technologies like JAWS require licensing fees and compatible hardware. Additionally, our education system lacks trained instructors who can teach students how to use screen readers effectively. Despite these challenges, if we strive to implement JAWS in schools across Bhutan, we could create a more accessible learning environment for students with visual impairments, ensuring equal educational opportunities for all. The Bhutan Live (2024) stated, “The prospect of leveraging assistive technology to enhance access to inclusive education is not only a national aspiration but aligns with global goals outlined in SDG4, emphasizing quality inclusive education for all by 2030.”

 

To move on to the second assistive technology, Braille displays are assistive technology that provides visually impaired individuals with access to digital information through tactile reading. I found out that, one of the biggest advantages of Braille displays is their ability to promote literacy and independence for those who rely on Braille as their primary mode of reading and writing. They enable real-time interaction with computers and smartphones, making education and employment more accessible. For example, a student with visual impairments can use a Braille display to read textbooks and take notes efficiently, improving their learning experience. Some examples of Braille Display are Refreshable Braille Displays, Standalone Braille Notetakers and Braille Tablets.

However, Braille displays also have drawbacks, such as high cost, limited availability, and the need for specialized training. Unlike screen readers, which convert text to speech, Braille displays require users to be proficient in Braille, limiting their usability for those who rely more on auditory learning.

In the Bhutanese context, Braille displays could significantly enhance educational and employment opportunities for individuals with visual impairments, especially as the country continues to advance its digital infrastructure. However, challenges such as affordability, limited awareness, and the need for trained personnel to support usage must be considered. Our country’s efforts in inclusive education and technological accessibility could benefit from introducing more Braille-compatible devices in schools and offices. While urban areas may have better access to such technologies, rural communities may struggle due to limited resources and expertise. Therefore, while Braille displays offer immense potential for empowerment, their widespread adoption in Bhutan would require government support, awareness campaigns, and financial assistance to ensure equitable access.

In a nutshell, learning about the assistive tools made me aware of how useful a simple assistive tool can be for those people with disabilities. Assistive technology helps them to read and write by themselves without depending too much on others, boosting their confidence and independence. They can compete with others in equal footing now that there is no barrier to stop them. From many assistive tools, I like the JAWS and Brialle display very important in the educational field because JAWS helps to read the digital content for the visually impaired people and similarly Braille allows people to read by touching.