Rehabilitation engineering research center (RERC) on access to computers and information systems *

Abstract

The Trace Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is designated as a Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) on the topic of Adaptive Computers and Information Systems. The purpose of this Center is to ‘assure that individuals with disabilities will have adequate accessible technology and technology interface to assist them to participate fully in the communication and rapid exchange of information that will be integral to the economy and lifestyle of the future.’ This priority stems from a concern that an increasingly technical society has the potential for becoming more and more inaccessible to individuals with impairments. Information systems, including but not limited to computers, are now becoming essential components in the workplace, education, home life, and increasingly community life as well. The RERC addresses three types of technologies: (1) Microcomputers and other programmable, flexible input/output devices; (2) Next-generation information systems and the information super-highway, and (3) Existing and emerging communication and of the Center include: working with makers of mass-market equipment and software to improve their designs; basic and applied research on human factors and disability issues as they relate to information systems; development of guidelines and standards for computer and information system accessibility; and information and outreach efforts to involve consumers in the development of guidelines and accessible designs.