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Assistive Technology

What is assistive technology (AT)?
Assistive technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, software program, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities (Assistive Technology Act of 1999).

How can I learn more about assistive technology?
The Learning Assistance Program offers individual trainings, workshops and/or classes that cover a variety of text-to-speech, speech-to-text, screen reader, note-taking, and magnification solutions. After meeting with your LAP Specialist to determine your accommodation eligibility, there are several ways to learn more about assistive technology:

  • Make an assistive technology training appointment with the High Technology Instructor by calling 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3274.

What AT is available on campus?
The following assistive technology is available or available upon request in the Learning Assistance Program (LAP) Testing/Adaptive Technology Computer Labs and most mainstream computer labs:

  • Kurzweil 3000 (text-to-speech software)
  • Balabolka (free text-to-speech)
  • Dragon NaturallySpeaking (speech recognition software)
  • Windows Speech  (built-in speech recognition)
  • JAWS (screen-reading software)
  • NVDA (free screen-reading software)
  • VoiceOver (built-in screen-reader for Apple products)
  • Kurzweil 1000 (text-to-speech software)
  • CARS (free text-to-speech for math)
  • ZoomText (screen-magnifying  with speech software)
  • Video magnifier with Speech (print enlarger)
  • Electric height and/or crank adjustable workstations
  • Scanners for use with Kurzweil

For more specific AT location information, please review the Assistive Technology, Equipment and Furniture Location on Campus Guide (currently being updated). 

How do I request assistive technology or report an issue with assistive technology?
Please email your request or concern to the LAP at  lap@hancockcollege.edu or make an appointment with the High Technology Instructor by calling 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3274.

What equipment is available for loan?
A limited inventory of equipment is available on a first-come first-serve basis for one-time loans to eligible LAP students for demo purposes. Equipment that is necessary for an ongoing accommodation must be acquired by the student. Examples of equipment that may be available are:

  • Livescribe Echo Smartpens (note-taking)
  • iPods (primarily for recording lectures)
  • iPads (Text-to-speech, voice recognition, time management, note-taking, etc.)
  • Digital Recorders (recording lectures)
  • Large Print Calculators
  • Large Print Scientific Calculators
  • Talking Scientific Calculators