Assistive Technology for Students with Disabilities
Below you'll find different assistive technology (AT) accommodations categorized by type of technology. With AT options quickly changing and advancing, our office will continue to keep this list as up-to-date as possible. However, if you have any questions or suggestions for inclusion, please contact pmccue@andrew.cmu.edu.
Cognitive Processing Tools
Read & Write by TextHelp
Make documents, web pages, and files more accessible using this toolbar. Identify unfamiliar words, listen to text out loud, and revise written work.
Type of Technology
Software and Web App
Compatible Operating Systems
Mac, Windows PC, and Google Chrome
Ginger
Quickly revise and edit written work using this grammar and spell checker.
Type of Technology
Software and web app
Compatible Operating Systems
Mac, Windows, and Google Chome
MathType
Handwrite or type mathematical equations quickly and more easily into documents or other digital content.
Type of Technology
Software and Web App
Compatible Operating Systems
Mac and Windows
EquatIO by TextHelp
Type, handwrite, or dictate any mathematical expression for use in an array of digital applications.
Type of Technology
Software and Web App
Compatible Operating Systems
Mac, Windows, G-Suite
Voice Dream Reader and Voice Dream Scanner
Use this text-to-speech app for almost any type of text document, multiple features allow for sharing, annotation, and synchronized highlighting.
Type of Technology
Mobile App
Compatible Operating Systems
Android and iOS
Offline: Does not require internet connection
Speech-to-Text Assistive Tools (Dictation)
Dragon
Create and edit documents and browse the internet and other applications using this speech recognition software. With a high initial accuracy rate, this technology continually adjusts to the user's voice and speech patterns.
Type of Technology
Software
Compatible Operating Systems
Mac and Windows
Android and iOS
Google Chrome Plug-In: Voice Recognition
Utilize a simple but effective dictation software that allows users to type long documents or emails without the use of a keyboard, and integrates well with Dropbox and Google Drive.
Type of Technology
Browser Plug-In
Compatible Operating Systems
Google Chrome Browser
Alternative Text*
Bookshare.org
Source alternative texts using this ebook database for textbooks and literature.
Type of Technology
Online database
*It is still the student's responsibility to purchase all textbooks required for class. However, ODR can assist in sourcing alternative texts if needed.
Learning Ally
Access a large database of ‘human-narrated’ audiobooks, including detailed descriptions of graphs, charts, and pictures for students with visual disabilities.
Type of Technology
Online database
*It is still the student's responsibility to purchase all textbooks required for class. However, ODR can assist in sourcing alternative texts if needed.
Assistive Tools for Students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing
FM Systems Loop
Available for students who utilize assistive listening devices for in-person lecture.
Type of Technology
In-classroom hardware
Screen Readers
JAWS
Navigate your computer using audio prompts without a mouse, read and write documents, and browse digital content using this speech and Braille output software.
Type of Technology
Software
Compatible Operating System
Windows
NVDA
Use this screen reading software, which supports many popular applications in more than 50 languages, other features include text-formatting reporting and support for Braille displays.
Type of Technology
Software and ability to run on a USB without installation
Compatible Operating Systems
Windows
Built-in Screen Reading Accessibility
Windows Narrator (Native Desktop App)
Note-Taking Tools
Microsoft One Note
Take and revise notes, record and index audio, sketch, and manage to-do lists while keeping everything well organized in one application across platforms.
Type of Technology
Software, Web, and Mobile App
Compatible Operating Systems
Mac and Windows PC
Android and iOS
Web application
Noteability
Create and organize typed or handwritten notes, audio recordings, drawings, and animations digitally to allow for easy collaboration and revision.
Compatible Operating Systems
Mac
iOS
Livescribe Echo Smartpen
Use a more traditional notetaking approach with pen and paper, with the added functionality to record and replay lectures, notes, and readings. Link your handwritten notes to audio recordings, and use the desktop software to upload and save for continued reference.
Compatible Operating Systems
Mac and Windows software
Note Taking Express
Organize and record class notes with a high level of organization. Have audio recordings sent to a professional for notation, or simply review audio with your notes.
Type of Technology
Web Application
Compatible Operating Systems
Works on any browser, optimized for Chrome and Safari
Executive Functioning and Organization
Notion
An all-in-one workspace and organization tool for notes, to-do lists, kanban boards, and other project assistance.
Type of Technology
Software and Mobile App
Compatible Operating Systems
Mac and Windows
Android and iOS