Assistive Technology Center
Description
Current assistive hardware and software products and programs are being
replaced as needed. The oldest PCs in the ATC have been replaced on a staggered
cycle, so that the lab’s hardware remains as current as possible without the
need for replacing all the computers at one time. Software licenses are
up-to-date.
During the next two years, we plan to move to the Tech Mall and continue a
phased-in upgrade of PCs, purchase new peripheral components (e.g., scanners),
and upgrade software licenses. We also anticipate continuing to expand our
inventory of assistive hardware and software to enable us to provide assistive
technology in the Learning Development Center (a small computer lab housed in
DSPS).
Curriculum Impact
Over the next two years, an increase in the availability of assistive
computer technology by placing equipment in the LDC will enable DSPS to expand
its ability to offer testing accommodations on computer as well as expand the
use of computers in the courses offered under the auspices of DSPS. As we
integrate the use of Web-based instructional materials into the PDSS courses we
offer, DSPS will experience growth in its overall Web presence.
Approximate Number of Students Served
The ATC provides instruction and computer access to approximately 200
students each semester. This number will grow as computer and Web use are
incorporated into more of the DSPS course offerings. We also anticipate an
increase in the number of students with disabilities who will use ATC equipment
to prepare assignments for non-DSPS classes.
Support Impact
While technical support needs will most likely remain the same in the
future, personnel needs (e.g., staffing in the ATC) will increase.
Year 1 (2004-2005)
Objective
During the first phase of our two-year objective, we will upgrade as
necessary the PCs and assistive software available in the ATC and the LDC. We
will also purchase additional assistive hardware and software to increase the
availability of these products in the ATC and in the LDC.
Action to Meet Objective
- Will replace obsolete PCs in ATC and LDC.
- Will upgrade and purchase additional USB flatbed scanners for ATC and
LDC.
- Will purchase additional trackball mouses for ATC and LDC.
- Will upgrade/purchase additional licenses of voice recognition, text
magnification, writing development, cognitive rehabilitation, Braille
translation, and text-to-speech software for use in the ATC and LDC.
- Will hire hourly lab aides (budget permitting). The hourly lab aides
will assist the existing full-time, classified lab aide with providing
instructional support in the ATC and the LDC.
Year 2 (2005-2006)
Objective
During the second phase of our two-year objective, we will continue to
upgrade hardware and software, as necessary, in the ATC and LDC. We will also
continue to purchase additional assistive hardware and software to increase the
availability of these products in the ATC and in the LDC.
Action to Meet Objective
- Will upgrade or replace assistive hardware and software purchased to
fulfill phase one objectives.
- Will hire hourly lab aides as needed to fully staff the ATC and LDC.
Year 3 (2006-2007)
Objective
During the third phase of our three-year objective, we will continue to
upgrade hardware and software, as necessary, in the ATC and LDC. We will also
continue to purchase additional assistive hardware and software to increase the
availability of these products in the ATC and in the LDC.
Action to Meet Objective
- Will upgrade or replace assistive hardware and software purchased to
fulfill phase one and two objectives.
- Will hire hourly lab aides as needed to fully staff the ATC and LDC.
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