Alternate Format MaterialsĪlternate format materials are a form of assistive technology and refers to the conversion of textbooks and/or other course materials into a format other than print. Currently, ODS supports Natural Reader EDU, a text to speech platform that offers a mobile app and Chrome extension. ODS provides text to speech software that converts text and digital documents such as PDFs into spoken audio so students may listen to assigned readings and course materials. Student Guide to Getting Started with Glean Text to Speech We also offer Echo Smart Pens for students that would prefer a physical device for recording and note-taking. Currently, ODS supports Glean, a browser-based personal study tool that allows students to record classes, take notes and more. ODS provides audio note taking software for the audio recording of in-person or synchronous virtual classes, with optional digital note-taking features. If you are registered with ODS and interested in more information about AT, please reach out to the Assistive Technology Specialist, Deanna Sessions Milano, at The assistive technology specialist can answer questions about AT and alternate format materials, offer training and follow-up support on provided technologies, and troubleshoot additional technology concerns around accessibility and the teaching and learning experience. For more information on registering with our office and receiving accommodations, please visit the How to Register page. Students must be registered with ODS to be eligible to receive AT and alternate format accommodations. Some of the AT available through ODS includes text to speech software, audio recording applications, and the provision of alternate format materials. She specializes in holistic evaluation of student needs, capitalizing on student strengths, and using data and numbers to inform the future of disability support, accessibility, and AT.The Office of Disability Services (ODS) provides assistive technology support to Marymount students with academic accommodations. Emily loves to geek out on the intersection of technology and the human experience in order to help all learners optimize their education in meaningful ways and achieve their potential. She currently works at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. Utilize information gathered via this study to inform future note taking programming in higher ed settingsĪssistive Technology Speaker Bio(s) Emily HelftĮmily is a former school psychologist turned assistive technology specialist who recently transitioned from K-12 to higher education.Understand the managerial pros and cons of AT in addition to/place of peer note takers.Understand the user pros, cons, and impact of note taking AT in relation to peer note takers.This basic investigative study presentation will discuss: 1) the recruiting and training of students 2) pre and post student reported skills and commentary related to the note taking experience, and 3) backend management and administrative input, along with thoughts on future implementation/use/changes. Given the availability of AT, rather than sole reliance on peer note takers, VCU DSS sought to begin preliminary comparison and analysis of the pros and cons of two different types of assistive technology items that can aid in note taking support, and in some instances replace the need for peer note takers. Many colleges/universities struggle with the management, implementation, logistics, and reliability of human note takers for students who require note taking support. *Please note: I do not have a formal abstract ready at this time, as post survey results will not be collected until early May but I did not want to miss the opportunity to apply to discuss this basic study!!* Pre and post survey results will be discussed, as well as training methods, back end management, and general thoughts on both tools. Emily Helft, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityĪ basic comparison of qualitative and quantitative student feedback regarding two types of assistive technology used for note taking support: Livescribe Echo Pens and Sonocent Audio Notetaker.Presented at 2:15pm in Waverly on Wednesday, November 16, 2016.
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