New Technology Makes STEM Subjects More Accessible to Disabled Students

Recent advances in technology have made a range of tech tools, from software such as Adobe and Microsoft, to robotics and other state-of-the-art hardware, more accessible to students with disabilities. According to a recent National Science Foundation report, student with disabilities are now just as likely to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects at college as their non-disabled classmates.

These new technology advances have gone way beyond adaptive word processors or screen readers to provide all students with the best possible learning experience, regardless of disability. Microsoft in particular has a long history of creating accessible products for people with disabilities, and works closely with manufacturers of third-party assistive technology products, for example screen readers or magnifiers, to ensure Microsoft software compatibility. The new developments include tools for coding, robotics, and other STEM-related fields are making it easier for students with disabilities to achieve their career goals in hard science fields that would previously have been difficult for them to get into.

Along with new and more accessible technology and tools to enable students with disabilities to excel in STEM-related fields, online learning has also provided an alternative that's often more suitable. Online degree programs are available in a wide range of STEM and STEM-related subjects such as a bachelor's or masters in health informatics, mathematics, physical sciences, robotics, computer science, and more. Studying for a STEM subject online at the degree levels has empowered many students with disabilities, allowing them to study from the comfort of their own home and to a timetable that fits well with their lifestyle, needs and commitments.

Whilst assistive technology has been used in schools for a long time in order to help students with disabilities to succeed with their studies, this same support has not been continued through to the student's higher education. One report, carried out by the Department of Education, found that although almost 90% of students with disabilities received support with their education at high school, less than 20% of students went on to get the same support at college. But, with support for students improving, high school graduation rates for disabled students are on the rise.

Along with the addition of new accessible technology for disabled students studying STEM programs, a recent report highlighted that more needs to be done in order to prepare these students for college and their future career. Students with disabilities may need extra time to prepare for their online MSHI program, or might require additional support with finding a graduate career or work experience during their degree. Universities and colleges also need to work closely with employers to ensure that the new accessible technology is implemented in the work environment, creating better opportunities for students with disabilities to find relevant work experience during their degree and a suitable graduate job afterwards.

Until now, STEM subjects have been incredibly difficult for students with disabilities to succeed with. But, this new accessible technology is giving all students an equal chance of success, regardless of disability.