Adaptive Hardware and Software

Information Technology Systems and Services has been working cooperatively with the Disability Resources to ensure that UMD teaching labs and open computer labs are accessible to all students on campus. To accomplish this, adaptive hardware devices and software programs have been installed in a number of computer labs on campus to facilitate access to standard computer equipment for users with a variety of disabilities. Workstations, printers, and aisles have been designed and arranged with a sensitivity to accessibility for students who may need varying accommodations. Software and adaptive equipment presently available includes:

• Text magnifiers (ZoomText Xtra, MAGic) display text in selectable magnification levels and provide some additional reading aids such as an electronic "magnifying glass", line-by-line highlighting, contrasting text-to-background color combinations, text window sizing and screen reading. (Available in all labs.)
• Diagramming software (Inspiration)uses a scheme resembling flow-charting for students who visualize ideas and plans more easily in a graphical medium. The linked graphics can be converted to an outline by the software.
• Keyboard layouts (Dvorak) can be altered electronically to provide increased ease of use for users with limited hand mobility or one-handed operation. (Available in all labs.)
• Voice recognition software ( Dragon NaturallySpeaking) allows the student to speak or dictate to the computer eliminating the use of key strokes or mouse use.
• Speech synthesis or "screen reading" software (JAWS, Kurzweil 3000, ZoomText Xtra, Victor Reader) verbalizes what is written or pictured on the screen.
• Talking word-processing and writing assistance software (Kurzweil 3000, TextHelp Read & Write) comprehensive reading, writing and learning software solutions for any struggling reader, including individuals with learning difficulties, such as dyslexia, attention deficit disorder or those who are English Language Learners. The programs provide auditory feedback, increased reading fluency and word prediction to promote better writing and study skills.
• Braille Software (Duxbury) and Embosser
• Video Relay Service(Sorenson Video Relay) free service for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community that enables anyone to conduct video relay calls with family, friends, or business associates through a certified ASL interpreter via a high-speed Internet connection and a video relay solution (or VRS call option). Located in Kirby Student Center - 2nd Floor and the Library.

In addition, each lab is equipped with at least one workstation that provides the following:

• Adjustable-height workstation to provide access to users with varying height wheelchairs
• Trackball to provide fingertip control of mouse functions.
• Large, 21" monitor. ITSS has equipped computer labs with one large monitor to aid users with a low vision impairment.

Click here for Adaptive Software Locations on campus.

The UMD Library has Kurzweil 3000 which quickly scans printed material and then reads the text aloud at an adjustable rate with a choice of reading voices.

Comments to Pam Griffin (General Disability Coordinator) or Roger Petry, ITSS

Monday, 09-Mar-2009 15:26:01 CDT