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An Open-source Tool for Simplifying Computer and Assistive Technology Use: Tool for simplification and
Gregg C Vanderheiden1, J Bern Jordan1
1University of Maryland College Park, USA.
ASSETS. Annual ACM Conference on Assistive Technologies
|November 29, 2021
Summary
Morphic is an open-source software extension that simplifies computer access for everyone, especially those with digital literacy challenges. It ensures personalized assistive technologies are readily available on any computer, promoting digital inclusion.
Area of Science:
- Computer Science
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Assistive Technology
Background:
- Computer access is vital for education, employment, and daily life, yet many face barriers due to disability or digital literacy issues.
- While assistive technologies for disabilities are studied, challenges faced by individuals with general technology use difficulties remain less understood.
- Existing solutions are often difficult to find, install, and use, hindering accessibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce Morphic, an open-source operating system extension designed to simplify computer access and enhance usability.
- To address the problem of inaccessible technology for individuals facing digital literacy barriers.
- To demonstrate how Morphic integrates auto-personalization, layering, and on-demand installation of assistive technologies.
Main Methods:
- Development of an open-source extension for Windows and macOS operating systems by an international consortium.
- Implementation of features such as auto-personalization, layering, and Install on Demand (IoD) for assistive technologies.
- Deployment of Morphic on computers at major universities and libraries in the US and Canada.
Main Results:
- Morphic has been successfully installed on campus-wide computer systems at several universities and libraries.
- The software simplifies computer use by making necessary features and assistive technologies appear on any encountered computer with Morphic.
- Morphic facilitates easier access to technology for users in educational, work, and community settings.
Conclusions:
- Morphic offers a viable solution to improve computer accessibility for a broader range of users, including those with digital literacy challenges.
- The open-source nature and on-demand installation of assistive technologies make Morphic a flexible and user-friendly tool.
- Lessons learned from real-world placements will inform future development and deployment strategies for enhanced digital inclusion.
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