Assistive Technology

If you have a disability, accessing course content and information may be challenging. Assistive technology (AT) can be a combination of equipment, software, hardware or product which can be used to help a student maintain, or improve their functional capabilities in order to overcome certain barriers or challenges.

Here is a list of some assistive technology that we recommend:

  • U of R Recommended Organizational and Notetaking AppsFile

  • PC Users
    Ease of Access (Windows 10) or Accessibility (Windows 11) is full of useful assistive technology built right into your computer such as Narrator, Magnifier, Closed Captions, Speech Recognition, Contrast Settings & more!
  • Mac Users
    The Accessibility options panel in System Preferences offers common accessibility features such as Zoom, VoiceOver, Dictation and Sticky Keys.

  • Audio Recording Devices
    • Smartpen by Livescribe enables the user to record lecture notes while writing. The user can then listen to any section by touching the pen to corresponding handwriting or diagrams.
    • Otter (App) - Records audio and transcribes it into text that you can click anytime to replay your recordings.
  • Screen Reader & Magnification Software
    • ZoomText enlarges text and allows documents to be read aloud.
    • Jaws or NVDA reads information web applications, Microsoft Office documents, and other information on a computer screen aloud.
    • CCTV or Video Magnifier projects a magnified image of textbooks and written documents.
  • Text to Speech Software and Devices
    • Read & Write is a literacy support tool to help with reading text out loud and more.
    • Natural Readers can be accessed from any web browser and is as easy as drag the document you want to be read into its drop box.
    • C-Pen is a portable scanning tool that students can use to read printed text or obtain definitions of words.
    • Speechify (App) – Take a picture of your textbooks and have it read it back to you.
  • Speech to Text Software
    • Read & Write can be a useful tool to keep on your computer to use speech-to-text whenever you need.
    • Google Docs or Microsoft Word both have a built in voice-typing function you can use.
    • Keyboard Shortcuts offer an easier way to access your computers accessibility functions. For speech to text, try pressing the Windows Key + H (for Windows) or double tap Fn on Macs.
    • &Ava breaks down communication barriers between the deaf and hearing worlds. It allows a user to read a real time transcript of the conversation with people around them.
    • Dragon Naturally Speaking converts the spoken words to text and can navigate your computer 100% hands free by using voice commands.

For more recommendations and for further information on assistive technology, book an appointment with an Accessibility Advisor today!