Assistive Technology (AT) is the use of technology to provide equal access to information. Assistive Technology Services (ATS) in the Department of Disability Resources that offers technology support services for students with disabilities such as audio books, adaptive software/hardware, alternative format materials, and equipment loan along with AT consultation, training, resources and support.
Eligibility for extended AT Services
If you think you may benefit from a technology accommodation, ask your Access Coordinator for a referral for an AT Assessment. An assistive technology specialist can advise you on technologies that may work for you based on disability need and abilities. If you qualify for accommodations through Disability Resources, the equipment and/or software you need may be loaned or made available to you at no charge.
- ATS supports and provides training for adaptive hardware and software used to accommodate disabilities. The ATS staff may be able to answer general questions regarding student computers and adaptive software.
- Although any registered student may use the open access computer workstations and printers, only students who are currently registered with Disability Resources may use ATS extended services which include audio books, textbook scanning, adaptive hardware and software checkout, accommodation consultation, and assistive technology training.
- Students that wish to take advantage of extended services such as audio books, scanning, etc., need to register with the main Disability Resources office EVERY SEMESTER they wish to use services and/or equipment.
Alternative Format Materials
Students with documented print disabilities that preclude the student from using standard print, may be eligible to request required course materials in alternative formats such as:
- Large print
- Audio books
- Electronic text
- Braille
Requests for alternative format materials should be submitted through the AIM Student Portal.
Funding for alternative production is generously supported, in part, by The Association of Former Students.
Adaptive Software and Hardware
Adaptive software and hardware is obtained and installed in various campus computer labs and made available for exam administration based on disability need. Common software and hardware available includes:
- Screen Reader software (JAWS, Fusion)
- Screen Magnification software (ZoomText)
- Voice Recognition software (Dragon NaturallySpeaking)
- Text-to-Speech software (TextHelp Read & Write)
- Video Magnifiers/CCTVs
- Adaptive mice and keyboards
- Braille writer
- Adjustable height desks
Additional software and hardware is obtained and installed on a case-by-case basis.
Equipment Loan
Qualified students with disabilities may be able to borrow equipment on a semester basis including items such as, but not limited to:
- Personal Assistive Listening Devices (Comtek AT-216, Comfort Contego, Phonak Remote Mic)
- Many of the larger classrooms and auditoriums on campus have assistive listening systems built in to the sound system of the room. See Communication Access Services for more information about these locations and how to obtain a receiver.
- Audio recorder
- Smart Pen