What is Assistive Technology?
Any device, software, or equipment that helps people with disabilities, health conditions, or age-related challenges interact with the world. Assistive technology can help people gain and maintain independence by assisting in daily life.
What data is there on Assistive Technology in Universities?
21% of undergraduate and 11% of graduate students report having one or more disabilities. 10-25% of these students utilize assistive technology, with the two most common technologies being text-to-speech and screen magnification. Click here for the research article!
Questions to keep in mind when requesting Assistive Technology accommodations:
Is there a history of using assistive technology?
Is there documentation showing a need for using assistive technology?
What has and has not worked in the past?
What would help specifically in the Testing Center?
What would help specifically in the classroom and / or lab?
Text-to-speech software (JAWS / Dragon / Natural Reader)
Wispr Notetaking Transcription
Talking blood pressure cuffs and / or thermometers
Claude AI Transcriptions
Alternative formatting of books / exams like braille or large print
Specialized keyboards / mice
Smart Pen (Livescribe)
Canes
Crutches
Wheelchairs