Accessible ITems
Tutorial on Accessible Telecommunication Products Available
A new web-based training course is available on ensuring access to telecommunication products under section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, which requires access to electronic and information technologies procured by the Federal government. The course, the last in a series developed by the Board covering different aspects of its section 508 standards, is designed for those involved in the purchase or procurement of telecommunication products for Federal agencies. It covers all of the requirements that telecommunication products must meet, including those providing access for persons with hearing impairments.
Since issuing its standards for electronic and information technology, the Board has maintained a program of continuing on-line guidance and training on the requirements of the standards. Other section 508 tutorials in the series cover software applications and operating systems; desktop and portable computers; and self contained, closed products, such as information kiosks, calculators, and fax machines. The courses are part of the on-line "508 Universe" program provided on the www.section508.gov 
website. This site also provides other section 508 tutorials and resources.
(Source: Access Currents, Volume 11, No. 2, March/April 2005.)
New Public Schools Accessible IT Kit Available
Access to information technology in schools is increasingly important for student success. However, many students with disabilities do not have access to the information technology that other students are using. The New England ADA and Accessible IT Center (funded by the US Department of Education) has available, an information kit - Breaking Down Barriers: K-12 and Beyond that demonstrates how to make IT accessible to students with disabilities.
This free kit includes:
- a CD-Rom demonstrating the benefits of accessible IT for students with disabilities
- a checklist to help school personnel survey their school's technology for accessibility
- a printed information booklet for parents
- a poster depicting examples of accessible information technology
Schools, parents, and others interested in information on making technology in schools accessible can order a kit by calling 800-949-4232 (v/TTY).
Information Technology Publications
Section 508 Standards (601)
Access Board standards for accessibility in computers, software, networks, websites, peripherals and other electronic office technology. 30 pp. $3
Section 508 Statute (608)
The law requiring federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities. 3 pp. $1
Quick Tips Web Access (609)
Business card-sized cards includes 10 tips on Web accessibility.
Section 255 Guidelines (611)
Access Board's guidelines for accessibility, usability, and compatibility of telecommunications equipment. 39 pp. $4
Section 255: Access to Telecommunications (612)
Access Board's plain language explanation of Section 255 requirements for access to telecommunication service and equipment. 4 pp. $1
All publications are available from our Center by calling (800) 949-4232 (v/tty).
