Adaptive technology refers to technology for people with disabilities and technology that adapts to users’ needs. Some technologies developed for disabilities have applications for other populations. Examples include screen readers, touchpads, predictive text, and adaptive search algorithms. Advanced adaptive technologies focus on the needs of blind users and those who cannot use high-speed keyboards and mice. Adaptive technology can change to meet the needs of non-disabled users, such as search engines using adaptive algorithms. Predictive text and auto-correction allow computers, mobile phones, and tablets to operate faster. Researchers in adaptive technology may have a degree in computer science or a related subject.
The term “adaptive technology” can be used to refer to technology used by people with disabilities, as well as technology that adapts to users’ needs. Some technologies developed for disability purposes later have applications for other populations. Some examples of this type of technology can include screen readers and touchpads, as well as tools such as predictive text and adaptive search algorithms.
In the case of technology for people with disabilities, adaptive technology fulfills a specific need for a disability. Not all people with disabilities need adaptations to use the Internet and various electronic devices, but some do, or may find this technology useful. Software programs can be adaptive by allowing people to change the size, color and position of text, for example. Some people with disabilities may need minimalist themes for programs and websites to be able to navigate them without distractions.
Some of the more advanced adaptive technologies focus on the needs of blind Internet users and people who may not be able to use high-speed keyboards and mice. Screen readers and Braille displays provide access for blind users who cannot see websites and computer programs. Tools like control cards, motion sensors, and styluses allow people to type and enter commands by moving their heads or using their feet. Voice command systems are also a form of adaptive technology.
For users who are not disabled, adaptive technologies change to meet their needs to make a program fit and work better. Search engines use adaptive algorithms to learn from their users and return more relevant results, for example. Intelligent programs and websites can remember settings and anticipate needs based on user patterns. The same learning capabilities can also allow virtual reality systems to adapt to users who may move and work differently within the system.
Users can rely on adaptive technology such as predictive text and auto-correction on a regular basis. These features can allow computers, mobile phones, and tablets to operate faster. These systems also learn from their users; in predictive text, for example, the program will take note of the words the user sees most commonly and suggest them first, with other options further down the menu. The more the user uses the function, the more intelligent and precise it will be.
Researchers involved in adaptive technology may have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related subject. They can work on the programming behind applications and tools, as well as the physical equipment itself, such as displays to help visually impaired people on the Web. Many colleges and universities offer training and mentoring in this field.
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