Computer Use and Training of College Freshmen with Low Vision

Abstract: PURPOSE: The knowledge, experiences and attitudes of computer use in college freshmen with low vision were examined by focussing on the change between two periods. Interviews were conducted first at the time of entering the college, and secondly at the 8 weeks later. METHOD: Thirty-three college freshmen with low vision were asked to reply to questionnaires regarding experience with, knowledge of, and attitudes toward computer use. The demographic and pathological characteristics of each subject were also described. RESULTS: Nearly half of the students were familiar with computers, but about twenty percent of them entered without any computer experience at all. The longer the students used computers, the more frequently they used them (r=0.833, p<0.01). Experiences with Word Processor, Presentation, Screen Reader, and Screen Magnifier application significantly increased after eight weeks. The relationship between the visual acuity and assistive technology use was found. The knowledge of and attitudes toward computer usage did not change during two periods