High Tech Center

This list is not all inclusive. Additional resources are available through Access Programs.

• Windows Ease of Access Folder. Assistive technology that includes a magnifier, narrator, and speech recognition software.
• Kurzweil 3000. Voice Output software that provides voice output for individuals with learning needs. It offers reading, writing, and study skills tools for the user. From www.kurzweiledu.com.
• Zoom Text. Text Magnification software that supports low vision users through magnification while working in various applications. From www.aisquared.com.
• Dragon Naturally Speaking. Voice Recognition Software that provides continuous recognition of natural speech, allowing speech to text conversion. Ideal for those with limited mobility in keyboard use. From www.nuance.com/products.
• Trackball Mouse. An ergonomic mouse designed for maximum comfort and for individuals with limited mobility.
• Keys U See An alternative keyboard with larger print for the visually impaired.
• Magnification machine. Allows students to magnify documents.
• Inspiration. A visual learning tool for visual mapping, outlining, writing and making presentations. From www.inspiration.com
• Khan Academy. Provides training in science, language, and math.

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We can provide alternative formats through Learning Ally, Bookshare, audible.com, and Project Gutenberg

Process for Requesting Alternative Media Formats

1. Determining Eligibility
   Eligibility for alternative media services is determined by DSPS counselors/staff. Meet with a DSPS counselor prior to the start of the semester you are requesting alternate media for. Complete an accommodation letter and update your ed plan.
   • Students who have a documented print disability, such as visual impairments, learning disabilities, or some physical disability that prevents the student from using standard instructional materials are eligible to receive textbooks and classroom materials in an alternate format.
   • The student must be enrolled in courses for the semester for which books are requested.
2. Process for Requesting Materials in Alternate Format
   • The student must provide a receipt for proof of purchase or other legal form of book ownership/rental (DSPS) or a book voucher (EOPS) to the Alternative Media Specialist.
   • The student must also submit a signed Alternative Media Copyright Contract and Alternative Media Book Request form to the Alternative Media Specialist.
   • Only required materials and textbooks will be converted. Recommended or suggested books require counselor approval and need to be noted on the student's accommodation form.
   • A request for classroom materials in alternative format must be turned in at the same time as book requests. All copies of classroom materials must be clean and scan ready or available electronically.
   • Notify the Alternative Media Specialist immediately if the student drops a class or the instructor changes the required textbook.
   • The student's preferred format is given priority.
3. Timeline for Textbook Requests
   • The student should submit alternative media request at least two weeks prior to the start of the semester or as soon as possible.
   • Requests will be processed in the order received. Turn-around time varies: 2-4 weeks is the average time it takes to receive requested materials. The student will be contacted by phone and/or email when book request has been filled.
4. Timeline for Class Materials Requests
   • Class material requests will take at least 3 business days to process (may be longer during peak periods.)

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Utilizing HTC Resources

Each time a student utilizes High Tech Center (HTC) resources, he/she must sign in and out of the High Tech Center check-in station. Tracking student use of the High Tech Center allows us to justify providing services and investing in resources which enable disadvantaged students to succeed.

Printing

Access students may print up to 50 pages per day, free of charge, in the High Tech Center. Students are encouraged to print jobs double-sided whenever possible. Instructions on how to print are posted in the High Tech Center.

Note-taking

If an Access student needs assistance with note-taking, a request form may be obtained from Wendy Coward or Robin Duff in Access Programs. Once the request has been received, Wendy or Robin will work with the student and instructors to arrange note-taking services.

Proctoring

Access students with special testing accommodations will need to acquire an accommodations letter from their counselor. Depending upon the accommodations, exams may be proctored in the High Tech Center or the Learning Assistance Center.

Individualized Training on Assistive Technology

Students may schedule individualized training on software programs or other technology available through the High Tech Center by contacting the Alternative Media Specialist.

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The High Tech Center is located in the main building, room 234 on the Ridgecrest/IWV campus.

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