Free and open source assistive technology applications provide a practical alternative to more expensive commercial products. Why spend scarce school, business and home budgets when everything you need is readily available free of charge? Open source software is free to run for any purpose, free to study and modify, free to copy and free to improve. In addition to open source software there are many freely available versions of software (freeware) and free web-based learning programs that will help ease some of the financial sting involved in maintaining ICT currency. Furthermore, because open source software generally doesn’t require high performance machines that are necessary to run proprietary-based operating systems and software, older machines can be recycled and repurposed to run basic applications such as a web browser or word processor or even complete operating systems run purely from a portable flash drive. Consequently there is increased access to technology for more users and free of potential licensing issues.

This workshop will provide details on free and open source software and free web-based programs that can readily be used as tools to assist in accessing a computer, to support literacy, numeracy and concept development as well as providing internet access. It will cover aspects of accessibility options in existing operating systems including Windows, Apple and Linux. Resources to be shared will be selected for their accessibility and Universal Design for Learning features. Participants will be provided with comprehensive information including resource listings of free web-based programs and open source software as well as fully functional copies of some open source software and freeware.

David Vosnacos is Program Manager of the Association for the Blind of WA’s new access, consultancy and data services.  He is an Occupational Therapist with a passion for ensuring all media, be it print or electronic, is accessible to all.  David was part of the team implementing the use of the DAISY format at the Association for the Blind. He is also a self confessed ‘geek’ and a keen supporter of open source software solutions.

Hillary Epton (Dip Teach, B. Ed, M. Ed, Grad Dip in AT, Ch.F) is currently the Senior Consultant at the Centre for Inclusive Schooling (Department of Education WA) and manages the implementation and delivery of Assistive Technology services across WA public schools. She was a classroom practitioner for many years with a passion for literacy development and the role of technology as a teaching and learning tool, especially for students with diverse needs. She regular presents on literacy development, inclusive practices and Assistive Technology throughout Western Australia and at interstate and international conferences. The highlight of her career in Assistive Technology has been winning a Churchill Fellowship award to study Assistive Technology in the USA, Canada and Britain.