Accessibility @ Mason

Services

Resources and Services for Students with Disabilities

Resources and Services for Employees with Disabilities

 

Assistive Technology at GMU

• What is Assistive Technology?

  • Assistive technology is technology used by individuals with disabilities in order to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. Assistive technology can include mobility devices such as walkers and wheelchairs, as well as hardware, software, and peripherals that assist people with disabilities in accessing computers or other information technologies.
  
  
  • Examples of Assistive Technology
  • Assistive Technology Computer Stations in GMU Libraries
  • ATI Assistive Technology Training and Resources
  
  



• What kinds of Assistive Technology is available at Mason?**

The following is a list of equipment and software currently available on all Mason campuses:

Hardware

CCTV/Video Magnifiers (desktop and portable)

• These devices can be used by individuals with low vision when hand-held magnifiers will not work. Typically consist of video camera connected to some type of monitor such as a computer monitor.

LiveScribe Pens

• This smartpen records and links audio to what you write.

Victor Reader Stream

• This portable reading device lets you read and navigate through complex books, such as reference manuals and school books, as well as novels and magazines. You can also use its built in text-to-speech to read books in text formats like .txt and .html or play audio formats like DAISY, .mp3, etc. There are many more functions, including an integrated microphone to record voice notes.

FM Listening systems

• An FM listening system transmits a speaker's voice directly to the user's ear. This is useful for an individual with a hearing impairment because it may help the listener focus on what the speaker is saying. The unit consists of a wireless transmitter (with microphone) worn by the speaker and a receiver (with earphone) worn by the listener.

Perkins Brailler

• This device is a "braille typewriter" with a key corresponding to each of the six dots of the braille code. By simultaneously pressing different combinations of the six keys, users can type any of the characters in the Braille code onto a piece of cardstock paper.

Juliet Pro 60 Braille Embosser

• In combination with braille translation software (e.g., Duxbury), this device functions as a printer which renders text as braille.

Additionally, we have:

• Devices for producing tactile graphics (i.e., Tactile Image Enhancer, Thermo-Pen)
• Ergonomic chairs, arm supports, an assortment of ergonomic keyboards, mice, joysticks, and document holders

 

Software

JAWS for Windows

• Screen-reading software that enables an individual with little to no functional vision to independently access a computer system

Software applications designed to enhance success for individuals with reading challenges and writing difficulties

• TextHelp Read & Write GOLD
• WYNN Wizard

Inspiration

• Software that assists individuals with visual mapping, outlining, writing and making presentations

Zoomtext Magnifier/Reader

• Screen-magnifcation software that enables individuals with some functional vision to independently access a computer system

Duxbury Braille Translator

• Braille translation software that converts regular print into braille for individuals with vision impairments

Lime/GOODFeel (Dancing Dots, Inc.)

• This application allows individuals with vision impairments to transcribe braille music.

Software applications for making math more accessible to individuals with vision impairments

• MathType
• Scientific Notebook

 

**Please contact the ATI if you would like to learn more about adaptive technology and/or request a loan of the technology that is currently available.