Information Technology

 

Our modern well equipped facility has eight workstations, two of which are height adjustable to accommodate wheelchair users. The computers have a mix of XP and Vista operating systems, all have broadband access to the internet and e-mail facilities.

We offer training courses on behalf of West Suffolk College which can lead to nationally recognised qualifications. In addition we offer less structured training and skills development occurs according to the needs of individuals.

Recognising the particular role that computers can play in enriching the lives of disabled people, work is undertaken on the development and tailoring of techniques to overcome the problems experienced by disabled people when using computers. This includes use of screen readers for the visually impaired and blind, speech recognition adaptations, and alternatives to the standard mouse and keyboard.

            

Our approach is to develop a range of solutions that are readily re-useable and can be combined to meet the particular needs of a user. Solutions include off the shelf and bespoke software as well as mechanical modifications. Wherever possible free software within the public domain is employed so that it can be used at no additional cost on home based computers.

IT is a fast moving area and we endeavour to keep abreast of developments which have relevance to the needs of our students and users.

The overriding feature of IT at Street Forge Workshops is that we respond to the needs of individuals.