What is CART?
CART stands for Communication Access Realtime Translation
CART providers are Court Reporters who have been specifically trained to work within the deaf/hard of hearing community. CART providers, using a shorthand machine connected to a laptop computer, write everything that is said during an event. Through specially designed software, the shorthand is simultaneously translated into English and displayed on the laptop screen in realtime. Environmental sounds are included in addition to the spoken word, which enables the CART recipient to not only understand what is said, but also to be aware of the activities going on, such as laughter from the back of the room, or a loud noise heard from outside.
The CART recipient can also receive an electronic transcript just hours after the conclusion of an event if requested. This can be extremely helpful to a student preparing for an exam, or for minutes of an important meeting, for example.