Adaptive Technology
NCC is committed to ensuring that all services, programs, and activities are accessible to students with disabilities.
Adaptive technology is hardware and software designed to assist individuals who have difficulty accessing information systems using conventional methods. For example, mini keyboards can be used by people with a small range of hand movement, and screen readers can be used by people who are blind. Note: also referred to as Assistive Technology. The Technology Related Assistance to Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 (Tech Act) first described an assistive technology device as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."
For training in the proper use of equipment, students need to contact Heather Alexander, the Adaptive Technology Specialist in the Disability Services Office, Room West 209j. Please make an appointment by email, telephone (857- 6844), or coming to the office. Suggest 2-3 times you would be available to meet during her scheduled hours. Ms. Alexander is scheduled to be in the office Monday - Wednesday from 9:30 am - 4:30 pm.
DEDICATED COMPUTERS
There are three computers on-campus that are dedicated for use by students with disabilities. These computers are loaded with the accessibility software listed below. Students registered with the Disability Services Office are given priority access. The computers are situated in the following locations:
E. Matilda Ziegler Adaptive Technology Lab - West 209J
Tutoring Center - West 110
Baker Library (for assistance see Reference Librarian or Circulation desk )
SOFTWARE ON THE DEDICATED COMPUTERS
KURZWEIL 1000
This software program scans print material into the computer and converts it into speech. It is for use by students who are blind.
KURZWEIL 3000
This software program scans print material into the computer and converts it to speech. It provides reading, writing, editing and study skills support for students with learning challenges.
MAGic
This software enlarges what appears on the monitor from 2 – 20 times its usual size. Color (contrast) and mouse icons can also be adjusted. It is for use by students with visual disabilities.
JAWS
JAWS is a computer screen reading program that reads what appears on the monitor. It is for use by students with visual or reading disabilities to create documents or to access the Internet.
DRAGON NATURALLY SPEAKING
Voice recognition software that types while you speak.
OTHER ADAPTIVE TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE
Recordings for the Blind & Dyslexic (RFB&D) AudioBooks and CD PLAYERS
The College has a membership with Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic and provides audiobooks on CDs for eligible students. CDs ordered from RFB&D can be listened to with a specialized CD player that is available at the library and in the Adaptive Technology Lab (West 209j). These players may only be used on campus. Students can purchase players and software from RFB&D to use off-campus.
OPTELEC
Optelec magnifies any print material placed under it from 2 to over 50 times its original size. The color (contrast), size and brightness (image) of the screen can also be adjusted.
DIGITAL TAPE RECORDERS
FRANKLIN SPELLING ACE
NOTE: The Information Technology Department can install adaptive software in classrooms and computer labs in response to student needs.