The term Assistive technology is used to describe any device that helps a person with a disability complete an everyday task. Assistive technology can range from a simple low-tech device, such as a tape recorder, to a high-tech device, such as screen readers that read aloud Internet articles and electronic text documents. The Office of Disabilities Services has the following assistive technology resources available for registered cadets:
Kurzweil 3000 (www.Kurzweiledu.com)
VMI has licenses available for Kurzweil 3000,
a text-to-speech program that also has speech-to-text capabilities and numerous
useful study tools. Our Kurzweil system includes Mac and Windows versions as
well as access to the new "Firefly" web version, which can be used
online or on an iPad. Cadets using Kurzweil can access the program on their own
personal computers or in any of the computer labs (or both!).
Dragon Naturally Speaking (www.nuance.com)
Cadets can use DragonNaturally Speaking which is a speech recognition software
program that converts speech to text allowing cadets to dictate information into a microphone. This information then appears on the screen and can be edited by voice or keyboard. You can also purchase this
program for your personal computer and we can assist with set-up and training. Check with ODS for access to this software.
Smart Pen (http://www.livescribe.com/en-us/)
Records audio, takes notes, records what you say or write, and will play it
back. Available for loan from the ODS.
ALTERNATE OR DIGITAL FORMATS FOR PRINT COURSE
If you have been granted accommodations and require
print materials in digital format, we will provide your course materials directly
into your Kurzweil account for direct access. To allow adequate time to locate or produce electronic texts, requests from currently enrolled cadets must be received AT LEAST 4 weeks in advance.
We are set up to obtain digital versions of readings from a variety of sources. We use the following to access digital
formats. Cadets must complete the
Accessible Text Request (Accessible Text Request ) and Accessible Text Agreement Form (Accessible Text Agreement ) prior to receiving
electronic versions of course materials.
Cadets must also provide us with a proof of purchase of the textbook.