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DISH
Section Two: Using Disability Services and Accommodations
Assistive Technology
Assistive technologies are computer-based adaptations which enable persons with disabilities to fully utilize computer applications and access electronic information. De Anza is committed to full and equal access to the educational electronic environment, including instruction, web and information resources and laboratories. In order to accomplish this, the DSPS Division has established:
- The Computer Accessibility Lab (CAL),
- Alternate Media Services, and
- An on-going consultation with the college community to ensure technology access across all campus programs.
Computer Accessibility Lab (CAL)
Educational Assistance Courses include:
- SPED 240
- to learn what assistive technology will best work, given your needs and goals
- includes both basic evaluation of assistive needs and more advanced, individualized, or specialized training.
- SPED 245
- basic computer and word processing skills using the assistive technology you need.
- SPED 290
- Lab opportunity to use CAL computers to
- complete course assignments
- work on assistive technology skills
- use specialized assistive technology not available elsewhere on campus.
The CAL is equipped with up-to-date computer hardware and software based on the recommendations from the Chancellor’s Office funded High Technology Center Training Unit (HTCTU). The assistive technology available in CAL is:
- Configured to work well with standard educational and work station applications,
- Supported by the college's technology team, and
- Integrated as much as possible on campus.
Students may learn to use these assistive technologies through individual and group instruction in the CAL. There are access tools for students with:
- Learning or cognitive disabilities,
- Vision impairments, and
- Mobility limitations.
A complete list of current software and hardware is detailed on the Computer Accessibility Lab (CAL) website.
Alternate Media Production
An Alternate Media Specialist located in RSS room 141 works with students and college staff to ensure that alternate media are made available to eligible students. See the DISH, Section Two: Using Disability Services and Accommodations, Alternate Media Services" for more information.
Assistive Technology Support in On-Campus Locations
DSPS staff members consult across campus on issues of computer accessibility.
For specific information and assistance with assistive technology in campus labs, contact the CAL staff. They may also support you by providing technology in other campus locations where computers are used. Some software can be provided to many different locations over the network. In other cases, some programs and hardware need to be installed locally on one computer.
In the A. Robert DeHart Library, there are several accessible computer workstations available for use by students with disabilities.
The Library West Computer Lab (formerly the Open Media Lab) located downstairs in the Learning Center West has two adjustable workstations for student use.
De Anza supports the current industry standard set of assistive technology, which is intended to meet most needs and includes:
- Zoomtext,
- JAWS,
- DragonNaturally Speaking, and
- Kurzweil 3000.
Wherever possible, these are accessed directly through the campus network. If you believe your adapted computer needs are not being met, contact your DSS Counselor or LD Specialist to discuss the situation.