Broadband for Special Needs
High speed Internet should be easily accessible to everyone - even those with special needs.
With increased Internet and broadband usage in the last few years, advancements have been made in almost every facet of the industry. A major goal for Internet Service Providers (and by FCC mandate) is to make broadband Internet accessible to everyone.
Because of this, we have screen readers, webcams and W3C standards for making Web sites easy to navigate and read for people of all levels of ability.
This section will explore:
- Benefits of a broadband Internet connection for disabled users
- Legislature regarding Internet accessibility
- Programs to help special needs users
- Resources for additional research and more information
Programs like California's DDTP (Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program) offer services like Internet relay and video relay to the public, which require an Internet connection to function properly.
Internet Relay
Internet relay is Web based and requires a computer and an Internet connection to allow the deaf, hard of hearing or speech disabled customer to connect to an Internet relay operator who dials the phone number of the other party and types the message that appears in real-time.
Video Relay
Video relay Is Web based as well, but uses a webcam or videophone and high speed Internet access. A relay operator/interpreter transmits the message via sign language or speaking if the person can read lips.
