Internet techology for people with disabilities

Today a group presented to our class the benefits of internet technology for people with disabilities. For our generation the internet doesn't appear to be all that innovatibve becuase it we have grown up with. However, with the internet has come an EXPLOSION of opportunity for everyone, especially in the area of networking.With sites such as facebook and myspace, blogs, chatrooms, open forums, support groups and more, there are so many opportunites for people to communicate over the internet. For people with disabilities this can be especially helpful. Whether it's a mother of a child who has a disability who's networking with other parents in similar situations, or someone just trying to chat with a friend, the internet has made things a whole lot simplier. For many people with disabilities, leaving the house can sometime be somewhat of a process becuase they can't always just hop in a car and go. By means of the internet, they have the ability to talk with friends, meet new ones, share their struggles and triumphs, do research on cutting edge treatments or an unlimited amount of other possibilities with the click of a mouse. Although there are many positive aspects to the internet, one also has to be aware of the negative side of things as well. Becuase the internet does not always allow face to face interactions (although Skype is a wonderful thing), people sometimes have to be skeptical as to who they are really talking to. You may not want to give out too much personal information to someone if they only encouters you have had with them are in a chatroom or on a networking website. If used with caution, however, the internet can and certainly is a wonderful thing that we have all come to take for granted. I for one don't know where I would be without it, certainly not writing this post, THAT'S for sure! Until next time, Katie