Adaptive Technology

Technology Assessments

In a technology assessment, we evaluate your learning strengths and determine if there is a technology that will help you be a better learner.

College learning requires:

• the ability to use a computer
• the ability to navigate and use the Internet
• the ability to access and use all types of information.

High Technology Classroom and Lab (more information ...)

The High Tech Classroom is located in Cunningham 123, down the corridor from the DSPS office. It is equipped with 18 accessible student workstations and one accessible instructor's workstation.

The classroom permits:

• classroom lectures
• individual instruction and training
• collaborative learning.

The High Tech Lab is located in Cunningham 220A, upstairs from the DSPS office and directly next to the main Cunningham Computer Lab. It is equipped with 10 accessible workstations.

Each workstation is setup with a diversity of assistive technologies so that students can learn to use them in as open and flexible an environment as possible.

We often have a trained lab aid in the High Tech Classroom and Lab to help and answer student questions. To use the High Tech Classroom and Lab, students must complete a short orientation.

• Students must check in with the lab aid before and after using a workstation.

Classes and Training Provided in the Classroom and Lab

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The Department of Disability Support Programs and Services (DSPS) and the Communications Department offers training in the High Technology Classroom. Students can enroll in credit classes to learn how to use specific assistive technologies or how to operate computer applications with their assistive technologies.

Classes offered are:

• SP 85 - Introduction to Adaptive Keyboarding (and other assistive technology)
• SP 86 - Adaptive Word Processing (and other computer applications such as the Internet)
• SP84 - Screen Reader Technology
  • Jaws for people with vision impairments
  • Reading Fluency (vision and vision impaired)
• LD78 - Exploration of Computers

Besides the scheduled classes, a student can arrange for additional training and support for their adaptive/assistive technology needs. This support can come from instructors, DSPS staff, or other students.

Students can also arrange to work on class projects in the classroom or lab if they will need their assistive technology for collaborative work.

An ongoing Reading Group meets in the classroom twice each week.

Accessible Technology Throughout the Campus (more information ...)

Delta College makes an effort to meet the accessibility needs of its students. Adaptive/Assistive technology is available to use in other campus labs, classrooms, and the library.

A student must arrange for the technology to be installed in a lab or classroom by meeting with their DSPS counselor.

It is advised that the student first be assessed and trained on any technology before using it in a classroom or lab.

• Instructors and lab aids will not know how to use the technologies.

Provide Information and Support for Staff and Faculty

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Faculty and staff often have questions on how to best help students using adaptive/assistive technology. DSPS provides direct support for faculty and staff so that students can access classroom information and participate in campus activities

Work Experience and Internship Possibilities for Students

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Many Delta students have worked in the High Tech Classroom and Lab earning money, credits, and internship experience.

Students find the work experience very rewarding both personally and socially.

Several students have changed their educational and career goals because the their experience working in the High Tech Classroom.