The Adaptive Computer Technology (ACT) Lab provides a variety of services to students, faculty, or staff requiring adaptive assistance. Whether you have visual, learning, or physical disabilities that prohibit you from accessing a computer or course materials, the ACT Lab has something for you.
Persons with Visual ImpairmentsA wide array of services and equipment is available if you have visual impairments. Those with residual vision have access to closed circuit television systems. Large-print materials can be produced with a photocopying machine or a word processor. Screen magnification software is available on computers, as well as 19- to 21-inch monitors. If you do not have usable vision, you can access Braille and tactile graphics production in our lab. Braille embossers may be used in conjunction with Braille translation software. There is a refreshable Braille display available in the primary Adaptive Computer Technology Lab. Screen reading software is installed on computers to access on-screen information through the use of an array of voice synthesizers. Scanners with optical recognition software are available to access print information via speech. And, a portable magnification unit and laptop computers are available for short-term check out through the ACT equipment loaner program.
Persons with Mobility ImpairmentsA range of technology is available to facilitate access to computer technology whether your mobility impairments are manual dexterity limitations or complex quadriplegia. Many computer stations are equipped with articulating keyboard trays, which allow you to adjust the height and angle of input devices to a comfortable level. Other modified keyboards and trackballs are available if you have manual dexterity limitations, individual digit manipulation, and limited range of motion. If you have little or no manual dexterity, the option of using voice recognition software, which allows for hands-free input, is available.
Persons with Learning DisabilitiesSeveral of the technologies available for persons with vision and mobility impairments are also of benefit to those with learning disabilities. For instance, scanning text into an electronic format, then having a voice synthesizer verbalize the information can increase cognition and retention. Altering the screen colors and having the text highlighted as it is spoken assists with the reading process as well. And, the full-color CCTV's are used by some persons with visual processing disorders, to alter the color scheme of print materials. Tactile graphics can also enhance the understanding of graphical information. Spell checking and grammar checking are now embedded in commercial word processors to assist with the writing process. Word prediction and completion software can be used to prompt those with learning disabilities and reduce typing and spelling errors. Organizational (Inspiration) software is available to assist in the process of writing outlines and structuring thoughts into logical frameworks.
Persons who are Deaf and/or Hard of HearingThe Windows operating system is now equipped to provide visual cues to audio output of the internal media card. This will alert you to sounds used as warnings and error messages.
Persons with Psychological DisordersAlthough computer adaptations are not generally needed by those with psychological disorders, the primary Adaptive Computer Technology lab is available for your use. Many individuals find the smaller size of this lab and direct one-on-one support to be beneficial.
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