Assistive technology (AT)

The range of technologies to support learning is increasing all the time, and the choice can be bewildering! Students who have an identified disability may be eligible for Disabled Students' Allowances, which will carry out an assessment of need and recommend an individually tailored package of hardware and software, together with training. The kind of AT that might be provided includes:

• Text reading software (reads aloud digital print)
• Visual spatial planning software (enables planning in 'mind-map' format for essay/project planning, revision and note-taking purposes)
• Text to speech software (enables dictating what you want to write into a microphone, and the software then  transcribes onto computer)

In addition to commercial AT packages, there is also a lot of open source software which is free. For useful information, including Apps and strategies for using the technology, see: http://www.lexdis.org.uk

Productivity Tools

The following software (networked across all College PCs and accessible from the desktop) can enable you to study more effectively:

CLAROREAD: Useful for having text read aloud, spellchecking, checking for alternative words with vocalised feedback, changing the screen tint etc. 

MINDVIEW: Useful mind-mapping software to help with essay planning, report writing and revision; making timelines; producing Gantt charts for projects etc.