Access and Disability Resources Assistive Technology

Access and Disability Resources offers the following assistive technology tools for students to check out on a sem​esterly basis. Please note that Access and Disability Resource’s inventory of assistive technology may change as technology evolves.

1. Cpen Exam Reader: A Cpen is a hand-held scanning tool that can scan physical copies of text and read the text aloud. The Cpen also has the capability to read in a limited selection of languages.

   How this device can help students: The Cpen Exam Reader can help students who are auditory learners and/or students who have ADD, ADHD, or Dyslexia. Additionally, this tool can also help students who are learning to read a new language.

   Items included in box: Cpen purchases include a case, an instruction booklet, and a USB charging cord.
   

2. Echo LiveScribe SmartPen: These hand-held writing tools have two features: writing and recording. They can be used to write notes and record audio that can be played back to the listener. SmartPens require a special notebook produced by the company.

   How this device can help students: This tool is ideal for students who are taking courses that require a lot of writing and/or listening to lectures. This tool is also great for students who are auditory learners or who learn best by repetition of what they heard.

   Items included in box: SmartPen purchases include an instruction booklet, USB charging cord, starter notebook, and Echo desktop software for Windows or Mac computers.

3. Pebble Magnifier: These hand-held devices can zoom in on physical copies of text and allow modifications such as changing the color ratios of the text. Pebble Magnifiers have a 4.3” viewing screen.

   How this device can help students: Pebble Magnifiers work well for students who are low-vision or who have sensitivity to color.

   Items included in box: Purchases include a case and a rechargeable battery.

4. Carson Magnifier: These hand-held tools are approximately 8 ½ x 11 and can magnify physical copies of text.

   How this device can help students: The Carson Magnifier is perfect for the busy student who is on the go! It can be kept in a folder with homework, syllabi, handouts, etc. And can be used in class or at home. This device helps students who have low vision and don’t want to use an electronic device.

5. Cardionics 014-7700 E-Scope: For individuals with hearing loss. E-Scopes amplify sound and include auditory accessories.

   How this device can help students: This stethoscope amplifies sound and subdues any background sound interference. This device is designed for those who are hard of hearing.

6. Domino Classic Personal Hearing System: In-ear auditory device that enhances sound and works in a way that allows the listener to feel like the speaker is talking directly to them even if they’re across the room from each other.

   How this device can help students: This device is best for students who are deaf/hard of hearing but don’t have hearing aids available to use. This personal hearing system amplifies sound and is ideal in an environment where there’s lots of background noise or if the student is sitting farther away from the instructor.

   Items included in box: This two-piece set includes a wireless receiver and transmitter, USB universal charger, canvas travel case, lanyards, earbuds, and manual.

7. Screen Reader Software:

   1. Kurzweil 3000: Screen reader software that has three different formats: Read the Web extension for Chrome and Firefox, desktop software, and online account access. Kurzweil allows the user to upload Word docs and PDFs in addition to creating new documents in Kurzweil. Kurzweil’s main features include text to speech, magnification, and translation tools.
   2. ReadSpeaker Software tools: A combination of tools that allow the user to highlight text, use word prediction and auto-completion for writing, personalize settings, use screen masking for guided reading and offers text to speech for online use.
   3. ReadSpeaker SpeakUp Extension: Strictly a text to speech tool for reading documents (Word and PDF) in addition to Chrome web pages.

   How Kurzweil 3000 and ReadSpeaker can help students: Both are a “do it all” type of software because of the multi-functionality each software offers to students.

   For example, Kurzweil can be a fit for students who have Dyslexia and who need software that can write their assignments for them via speech to text. Kurzweil can also be a fit for students who want their textbooks or web pages to be read aloud via text to speech software.

   ReadSpeaker can be a fit for students who have quizzes/exams in D2L and who want audio capabilities available to them while they test. ReadSpeaker’s DocReader can also be a good option for students who want to modify their reading materials in D2L.

8. Audio Recorders: These hand-held devices record audio with playback features.

   How this device can help students: Students who are auditory learners and don’t want to/are unable to take notes have this device available to them. It’s pocket-sized, mobile-friendly, and can hold many audio files for a student who is listening to a lot of lectures.

   Items included in box: Earbuds, charging cord.

9. 4th Generation iPad Airs

   Applications downloaded and available on the iPad:

   1. Voice Dream Reader: Voice Dream is a unique application that allows audio files to be stored and read aloud to the user. Students who need their textbooks in alternative text- specifically audio format- will be provided with an iPad that’s prepared for them with their audio files.
   2. DropBox: The vehicle of transfer for alternative text PDF files from a computer to an iPad.
   3. ToDoist: Many students need assistance with organizing and prioritizing their homework responsibilities. In addition to the iCalendar, this application will assist students with creating lists, organizing their thoughts, and receiving reminders.
   4. EverNote: This is another application that will help students color-coordinate their schedules, modify the color contrast of the screen from light to dark modes, record audio, scan and add attachments, etc.
   5. Voice Calc: Standard arithmetic calculator that offers a variety of color themes, voice broadcast buttons, HD design optimized for iPads, etc.
   6. Timer+: Students who want to sketch out time slots for when/ how long they spend on each class’s assignments will benefit from this application. Timer+ runs multiple timers, allows for time widgets to be added to the home screen, timer repetition, reusable timers, and supports dark mode.