Room 104 Archives

The Hidden Barriers of Proprietary Software (ERP) and the Employment of the Visually Impaired

Many companies and universities have moved to ERP or Proprietary software. Almost all of these have varying barriers when it comes to Assistive Technology such as screen readers. Many are completely inaccessible. In this presentation we will discuss the different barriers those with visual impairments face and why. We will also discuss possible solutions to these barriers. 1. What is ERP/Proprietary software and how is it used in companies and universities?_x000D_ 2. Why are there barriers with ERP/Proprietary software when it comes to assistive technology such as screen readers?_x000D_ 3. What can be done to overcome these barriers for the visually impaired?

By Joe Dolson|2023-05-29T15:15:48-07:00April 26th, 2023|Comments Off

AT Assessments: Providing the Best Technology Solutions to Elementary and Secondary Students

The best assistive technology decisions for elementary- and secondary-age students with visual impairments are made when students, parents, teachers, and administrators are empowered by 1) knowing what resources are available, 2) what technology devices are most appropriate for each student’s classroom and recreational use, and 3) how to individualize the student’s technology instruction program for optimal success and independence. This discussion will provide an overview of the technology assessment process, how to select the right technology tools, the roles of assessment and instructional team members in providing effective educational services, and how to promote student independence through competent and confident application of technology devices, solutions, and strategies. 1. Participants will learn about three resources that can help them to locate information about what technology solutions and devices are available, and how to use the information these resources provide.2. Participants will identify three major components of a technology assessment and why each is vital to a student’s technology program development.3. Participants will discuss five ways to effectively individualize a student’s technology program by applying the use of resources and competent technology assessment.

By Joe Dolson|2023-05-29T16:07:40-07:00April 26th, 2023|Comments Off

Adaptive Gaming Clinic: LET’S GAME!

AzTAP launched the Adaptive Gaming Clinic in Summer of 2022 to provide hands-on opportunity to trial different accessible controllers to achieve their gaming goals! We are now seeing clients in person, providing in-services, and education to create more gaming opportunity for individuals with disabilities and enable different accessible environments throughout Arizona. Come learn more about different Adaptive Gaming set-ups and controllers, client success stories, and how you can get yourself, client, or child gaming! 1.Presentation attendees will learn about the types of adaptive controllers we have and different physical access options for the controllers._x000D_ _x000D_ 2. Presentation attendees will learn about the process for referral to the Adaptive Gaming Clinic and how to get yourself, client, or child involved. _x000D_ _x000D_ 3. Presentation attendees will learn about other resources that are available to the public through the Adaptive Gaming Clinic as well as our partners.

By Joe Dolson|2023-05-29T15:15:47-07:00April 26th, 2023|Comments Off

Incorporating Access and Sensory Strategies Transparently into Multiple Environments

In our post-pandemic educational, therapeutic, and workplace environments, levels of anxiety have created issues surrounding both access to and the ability to complete tasks. In dealing with individuals, professionals have sought to provide sensory relief and then return those individuals to the tasks at hand. In reality, a combination of sensory support and alternative approaches to AT usage can allow individuals to create self-regulating habits as well as increasing their own cognitive and workplace abilities. This session looks at providing levels of transparency with both AT and Sensory Supports within any environment to assist in this process. In a hands-on format, we will review ways of approach in both Access through AT and self-regulation through socially and environmentally appropriate manners providing ideas for these environments. 1. Participants will identify strategies to create transparency with AT_x000D_ 2. Participants will interact with various sensory strategies which provide support for all individuals._x000D_ 3. Participants will design a foundation for the movement into transparency with both AT and Sensory Supports

By Joe Dolson|2023-05-29T15:15:47-07:00April 26th, 2023|Comments Off

Wearable Devices for People with Limited Sight or No Sight

This presentation will provide information about the different wearable devices available in the market, their features and prices. Then we will demonstrate a couple of them. Two for people with low vision and two for people with no vision.Participants will learn about the different features each device has and what to look for when purchasing these devices. .Presenter will be available for questions at the end of the presentation. Participants will be able to name 3 features they need to consider when thinking about wearable devices for people with low vision.Participants will be able to name 3 features they need to consider when thinking about wearable devices for people with no sight. .Participants will be able to name at least 3 brand name of wearable devices available in the market.

By Joe Dolson|2023-05-29T16:12:57-07:00April 25th, 2023|Comments Off

Hidden Challenges for Assistive Listening Technology in Large Venues

Assistive listening systems provide a means of wirelessly transmitting an audio signal from a venue’s sound system directly to a listener in the audience, dramatically increasing speech intelligibility by removing background noise and bypassing room acoustics. Recent advances in assistive listening technology, such as the development of Bluetooth Auracast, hold promise in making assistive listening technology more available, more accessible, and more affordable for venue operators and listeners alike._x000D_ _x000D_ However, several hidden challenges that both existing and new technology face in large venues remain unaddressed. This presentation explores how to overcome these hurdles that even many industry professionals are unaware of. Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to:_x000D_ _x000D_ 1. examine whether any given large venue provides an adequate assistive listening solution_x000D_ 2. analyze whether alignment delay poses a challenge in any given venue_x000D_ 3. propose an adequate assistive listening solution for any given large venue

By Joe Dolson|2023-05-29T15:15:46-07:00April 25th, 2023|Comments Off

Becoming an Accessibility “Chef:” Recipes for Creating Content/Quizzes Using Office Software

Recent world events have illustrated the increased reliance on digital files in education and professional settings. As digital information becomes more commonplace, our need to improve access to these materials using universal design principles increases. Learn about the ingredients and steps needed to create accessible assignments and quizzes using Google Forms and Microsoft Forms that can be used by everyone. 1. Participants will be able to identify the requirements and steps needed to create quizzes using Google Forms and Microsoft Forms.2. Participants will compare features and identify common techniques the two tools use to create forms.3. Participants will gain confidence using these tools by having the opportunity to complete hands on activities during the presentation.

By Joe Dolson|2023-05-29T16:18:33-07:00April 25th, 2023|Comments Off

Hearing Loss Technology FAQ: So Much to Know!

The technology solutions and strategies available for individuals who experience hearing loss continue to improve and evolve. The influx of device options means that there is much to learn. This is your opportunity to increase your knowledge about the basics of hearing loss technology along with the latest advances. This session will provide an in-depth overview of technology solutions that individuals with hearing loss use for communication and environmental awareness. Tools and strategies for education, the workplace, home, and the community will be explained and discussed. Time will be allocated between sharing information, device demonstration, and exploring practical uses through case studies. Join us to learn about all the latest solutions and strategies for hearing loss access. 1. Demonstrate three technology advances with hearing aids._x000D_ 2. Demonstrate at least one accessibility solution for each of the following: school, work, home, and community access._x000D_ 3. Demonstrate three apps that create access for hearing loss on mobile technology devices.

By Joe Dolson|2023-05-29T15:15:45-07:00April 25th, 2023|Comments Off