Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology and You

According to the definition proposed in the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, Assistive or Adaptive Technology commonly refers to any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquire commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

Students use assistive technology for many reasons: increased self-reliance, the ability to work more independently, improvement in self-esteem, and better grades!

Examples of Assistive Technology

• Alternative Textbook Formats
• Digital Recorders
• C-Pen Reader 2 (portable, pocket-sized scanning device that reads scanned text out loud)
• Speech Recognition Software (Dragon Naturally Speaking)
• Screen Magnification Software (ZoomText)
• Writing/Organization Software, Graphic Organizers (Inspiration)
• Text-to-Speech Software (TTS is a type of assistive technology that reads aloud digital text – the words on computers, smartphones, and tablets.)
• Screen Reading Software (JAWS, NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access))
• Desktop Video Magnifier (CCTV)
• LiveScribe Echo SmartPen 
• Talking, Enlarge Screen, Graphing Calculators
• Alternative Listening Device (FM System)

Looking for an App for your mobile device? There are a huge number of apps available and their availability varies, and different apps will suit different learners even if they perform the same basic function.  Check out the following web page: App Information for Android and iOS Devices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Assistive Technology

Learn More

Please contact the Center for Accessibility Resources & Services at 978-556-3654 to learn more about Assistive Technology Services and whether you may be eligible to benefit from this type of support. Assistive Technology available may vary each semester.