Chapter 7: Assistive Technologies (AT)

Special software or equipment, generally referred to as Assistive Technology, is located at a variety of locations on campus. The following are some common types of assistive technologies available at RVC for students.

• ZoomText is a screen magnification software that will magnify text from print and electronic sources.
   
• JAWS is a speech output software that incorporates screen reading capabilities to read aloud text from word processing and the Internet.
   
• Dragon Naturally Speaking allows users who have difficulty using a standard keyboard to type documents by using their voice.
   
• Kurzweil 3000 enables students with learning disabilities to scan and read aloud books, digitized documents, and the Internet.
   
• Dolphin Easy Reader is a digital talking book software that allows users to read and listen to content through a combination of text, speech, and images. This program is available for students to download on their home PC.
   
• Closed-Circuit Televisions (CCTVs) that magnify print materials for students who are vision impaired are located in the Testing Center as well as the Assistive Technology lab (ERC-1114) in the *Library.
   

Assistive Technology (AT) Lab
 

Located on the first floor of the Library (ERC-1114), the AT lab contains two workstations that are loaded with ZoomText Extra, JAWS, Dragon Naturally Speaking, and Kurzweil 3000 software. In addition, there is one Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) in the lab that can be used for magnifying and reading printed materials. The lab is available for student use during regular library hours. For assistance regarding the AT lab, students should contact the Library’s Circulation Desk (815) 921-4615.

* The Library is located on the Main Campus in the Educational Resource Center (ERC) on the first and second floors.

DSS Equipment Loaner Program
 

In addition to the above mentioned software programs, DSS also has a variety of other equipment (example: digital recorders, Livescribe pens, alternative keyboards, iPads, etc.) that can be checked out free-of-charge on a semester-by-semester basis.

For more information, or to receive training on any of the assistive technologies available at RVC, please contact our Assistive Technology Specialist, Christine O'Neil at (815) 921-2364 or C.O’Neil@rockvalleycollege.edu.