Access Service
Adaptive Technology Training
What is Adaptive Technology?
Adaptive technology is any product, device or equipment that allows students with a disability to accomplish tasks or access resources while minimizing the impact of his or her disability. Many students on campus use adaptive technology to help them:
- Efficiently manage their time
- Improve their performance during exams
- Take better notes in class
- Become more effective readers
- Write stronger, more correct essays
Training
The Access Service offers individualized adaptive technology training to any student with a disability. Our adaptive technology specialists will work one-on-one with you to develop your technological skills and knowledge. We customize the training according to your specific needs.
Types of Adaptive Technology
The following table outlines the various types of adaptive technology supported by the Access Service:
Type of adaptive technology |
Who uses |
Tools available at uOttawa |
|---|---|---|
Voice-to-Text: Software that allows users to speak into a microphone while the computer transcribes their voice into a digital format. |
Students who have difficulty typing using a standard keyboard due to a physical disability Students with writing difficulties |
Dragon NaturallySpeaking Professional |
Text-to-Voice: Software that allows students to scan their texts into the computer, which converts the text into a digital format and uses a speech synthesizer to read it aloud. |
Students with learning difficulties that benefit from simultaneous auditory and visual reinforcement when reading Students who have a physical disability that makes manipulating print material difficult Students who are blind or visually impaired |
Kurzweil 3000 WordQ |
Mind-Mapping: Software that assists students in the brain-storming process and in organizing their work. |
Students with organizational difficulties or learning difficulties | Mind Manager Inspiration |
Time Management Tools: Software that allows students to create schedules, schedule appointments, and track assignments and contacts. |
Students with organizational difficulties | Palm PocketPC |
Screen Magnifiers: Software that allows students to magnify the size of what appears on the screen. |
Visually impaired students or students who are susceptible to eye strain | Zoomtext |
Writing Tools: Software that helps students correct their grammar or spelling mistakes. |
Students with writing difficulties or second language learners | Antidote (French only) |
Screen Readers: Software that reads the computer screen aloud to students, replacing the graphical user interface with auditory interface. |
Students who are blind or visually impaired | JAWS |
CCTV: Closed captioned television systems enlarge print texts using a camera and standard computer monitor. |
Students who are blind or visually impaired Individuals who are susceptible to eye strain or need to see fine detail |
SMARTVIEW CCTV |
Adaptive Technology during Exams
Some students use adaptive technology during their exams at the Access Service. If you feel that this would benefit you, please discuss it with your specialist at the beginning of the semester. Allow yourself plenty of time for training with the new technology. Some technologies, like Dragon NaturallySpeaking™, require many hours of training before they can be used effectively in an exam setting. To achieve the best results, we suggest that you begin your training at least 2-3 months prior to using adaptive technology in an exam.
Where Can I Access Adaptive Technology on Campus?
There are several locations across campus where you can have access to adaptive technology. In order to access these locations you must register with the Access Service.
Trial CDs
The Access Service can provide you with free CDs containing trials of some of the adaptive technology used on campus. Please contact the Access Service to receive a trial CD.
Purchasing Adaptive Technology
If you need assistance selecting the best technology to suit your needs, our adaptive technology specialists can help you. Additionally, you may qualify for a bursary to purchase technologies recommended to you by your learning specialists. For more information, make an appointment with your specialist.