Large computer keyboards are among the innovations used

Discover IT, established by the college, the Leonard Cheshire charity and Microsoft UK, aims to provide access to education through technology.

The suite, located in the main campus, provides computers adapted for use by disabled students and the community.

Senior lecturer George Smith said: "We are opening up whole new opportunities for disabled people."

Reid Kerr has 1,200 students with a disability out of a total roll of 22,000.

Why shouldn't they have access to technology like you and I? George Smith Senior lecturer A place where 'everyone is equal'

Assistant principal Audrey Cumberford said the college's approach is about being as inclusive as possible.

She explained: "Technology is now used in the classroom, it is important for us to support students.

"It is not simply about qualifications, it is about self-esteem and confidence and providing a route into education."

Ms Cumberford added: "It is essential people in the community think about tapping into a college education."

Mr Smith designed the new centre to ensure it could be used by anyone, irrespective of their disability.

It includes track balls and joysticks instead of a mouse, large keyboards and monitors and adjustable desks.

Awareness and opportunity

Mr Smith said: "One of the problems is the misconception disabled people require a lot of technology.

"Simple alternatives can make it a lot easier.

Doug Ross and Audrey Cumberford in front of the centre

"The will is there from the students. Why shouldn't they have access to technology like you and I?"

Keith Mitchell, 21, from Erskine, is a student at Reid Kerr College on a radio broadcasting course.

He has cerebral palsy and is a wheelchair user.

"This is a first in Scotland," he said.

"As far as I am concerned it is something that should be rolled out.

"A community college should be giving something back. Here is a way of integrating through learning."

Doug Ross, of Leonard Cheshire, said the charity had worked with Microsoft UK to create a network of Discover IT centres across the UK.

Leonard Cheshire aims to change attitudes to disability and serve disabled people around the world.

The charity has supported disabled people for almost 60 years and is active in 52 countries.

It supports more than 21,000 disabled people in the UK.

The Reid Kerr centre cost �25,000.

While it is the second Discover IT centre in Scotland, it is the first to offer the services for students.

Mr Ross said: "Leonard Cheshire's whole ethos is about integrating disabled people into society.

"Discover IT is a focal point, a non-threatening environment offering people a chance to try IT from online shopping to e-mail.