Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Adaptive Technology?
A: This is the name for products which help people who cannot use regular versions of products, and for people with physical and mental disabilities such as limitations to vision, hearing, and mobility. This can be both hardware and software.

Q: What is Assistive Technology?
A: This is a generic term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices. This includes both hardware and software.

Q: What is a Screen Magnifier?
A: This is software that magnifies everything on your computer screen. On this campus we use ZoomText.

Q: What is a Screen Reader?
A: This is software that reads everything that is happening on your computer screen so you can navigate your computer with only a keyboard. On this campus we use JAWS.

Q: What is an E-Text Reader?
A: This is software that will read any electronic text put into it. On this campus we use E-Text Reader, Universal Reader Plus, and Scan and Read Pro.

Q: How do I learn to use the adaptive technology on campus?
A: Schedule an appointment with a Disability Specialist to go over eligibility and which adaptive technology would suit you best.

Q: What is text to speech software?
A: This is software that will turn your text document into an audio file that you can listen to on your computer or CD player. On this campus we use Text-to-Audio.

Q: What is speech to text software?
A: This is software that converts the spoken word into a text document. On this campus we use Dragon Naturally Speaking.

Q: Where can I find adaptive software to do my school work?
A: There is various adaptive software in various locations. More information is available here.