Adaptive Technology
Eligibility Criteria | General Services | Adaptive Technology | Guidelines & Forms
Jefferson Community College provides accessible computer technology and adaptive equipment. A Learning Skills Specialist will help you understand your specific technology needs, review campus equipment and assistive technology, and offer guidance as you make personal decisions about equipment you may purchase privately or through an alternative funding source. If you wish to access these accommodations, you must first document your disabilities in the Learning and Success Center.
The following adaptive technology is available at Jefferson Community College:
Computer Screen Magnifier. Screen magnification enlarges a screen image from two to sixteen times its normal size.
Headphones. Headphones are foor use with tape recorders or with computer applications. A valid SUNY ID is required to sign out headphones in the Open Access Resource Center (6-204), the Melvil Dewey Library and the Learning Skills Center.
Kurzweil Reader. This software provides screen reading for e-text and scanned materials. Kurzweil is available in the Open Access Resource Center (6-204), the Melvil Dewey Library, and the Learning Skills Center.
Large Screen Internet Station. This station is available in the Melvil Dewey Library.
Large Screen Microfiche. This screen magnifer is available in the Melvil Dewey Library.
Optical Character Recognition (OCR). Optical character recognition (OCR) software works in conjunction with a computer connected to a flatbed scanner. The user can scan a page of text, and the OCR software will convert the text into a word processing file, which the user can then edit or have read aloud by a speech synthesizer.
Software Keylatch. Software keylatch is a program installed on a computer to help the user hold down multiple keys simultaneously. This application would be used to type a capital letter or a question mark, for example. People who type with one finger or with a mouth wand often use this software.
Speech Recognition. Speech recognition software allows the user to speak into a microphone at a normal pace and to have the computer convert what is said into text. Simple commands by voice, instead of through a keyboard, are used to process and revise text in a document, move around within the document, and control the computer. Spelling, pronunciation, and context-recognition information are included. Programming a person's voice to use this type of software takes at least one-half hour.
Speech Synthesizers. Speech synthesis is a computer-generated voice that reads aloud all keyboard and screen activity. This application can be used to hear help menus and dialog boxes as well as to play back text entered in any program. A speech synthesizer will also read aloud all icons, menus, and options highlighted by the keyboard or mouse.
Talking Calculator. This calculator reads aloud any information entered into it.
Tape Recorders. Tape recorders are used for a wide variety of reasons, including recording classes for notetaking and playing back texts that are not available in large print or Braille.
Trackballs. A trackball performs the same function as a mouse but is used by people who have difficulty using a standard mouse.
Microsoft Windows Accessibility. The Microsoft Windows operating system provides many options on the computer for students with visual disabilities, such as reversing the screen colors (white text on a black background) and enlarging items on the screen.
VERA. This machine scans paper copy onto a video display monitor and then converts it to speech. VERA is availble in the Open Access Resource Center (6-204), the Melvil Dewey Library, and the Learning Skills Center.
Word Prediction. Word prediction software allows the user to enter the first letter or two of a word and have the computer predict the intended word. The user may recognize the word, or the program can offer choices to the user. This application is great for students with learning or physical disabilities who struggle with typing letter by letter.
For more information about any of the items on this list or about support for special needs, please contact the Learning and Success Center at (315)786-2288, or toll free (888)435-6522.