What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive Technology is the term used to describe the tools and devices that assist you to perform a task that could otherwise be difficult or impossible to accomplish.
Real-world examples can include low-Tech” copyholders or wrist supports to more complex “Hi-Tech” screen-reading software. Students use smartphones or other devices and software tools like predictive text and Apps to assist reading, writing or dictation. For blind or visually impaired users, there are tools to help access text information and manipulate computers and devices.
Assistive Technology enables you to enhance your own abilities, and in doing so, assists you in taking control of your learning, managing and completing your college work effectively and efficiently.
How do I access Assistive Technology support?
When you register with the Disability Support Service you will be provided with details of who your Assistive Technology Officer is, and where they are located. We have two Assistive Technology Officers, and two training rooms, located in Aungier Street Library and on the first floor in Parkhouse, Grangegorman. View the Assistive Technology Officers' contact details.
When do I meet my Assistive Technology Officer?
Your first step to access Assistive Technology support is to register with the Disability Support Services. View information on how to register with the Disability Support Service.
As part of the Disability Support Service registration and needs assessment process, you will be referred to an Assistive Technology Officer to complete an AT needs assessment by your Learning Support Officer. Once you have registered with our service and have had your needs assessed by both your Learning Support Officer and Assistive Technology Officer, then the Assistive Technology Officer will recommend supports and arrange for you to use the facilities in their Assistive Technology rooms or online support. You can avail of ongoing support and training from your Assistive Technology Officer throughout your time in TU Dublin by using their appointment calendar.
How can I get access to software or hardware to support my studies?
Applications are made by the DSS for funding based on your registration data and documentation. If funding is approved, you will be provided with the Assistive Technology equipment or software that was recommended during your needs assessment with the Assistive Technology Officer. Resources that do not require funding approval will be discussed with you at the assessment and follow-up sessions with your A.T. Officer.
What is an A.T. Needs Assessment?
The Assistive Technology Officer provides you with an individualised assistive technology needs assessment. Our evaluation to find the most appropriate assistive technology for each student is based upon the function, challenges, strengths, and aptitude of the student in their environment so, we match the individual with the assistive technology that suits them best based on mutual agreement.
A review of the following is included:
- the academic demands on you during your time at TU Dublin, with a focus on solutions to those aspects that you may feel concerned about
- reflect on issues around accessibility, whether it is physical navigation, accessibility in terms of reading or writing formats and learning materials, course content materials or other concerns
- evaluation of the various tools available to help you meet the demands discussed and identify which tools and strategies suit you best
What happens after my Assistive Technology Needs Assessment?
The Assistive Technology assessment is followed by:
- Provision of the assistive technology we have identified in the needs assessment, for example, specific software, hardware, or equipment.
- Support and guidance with strategies for assistive technology use, by identifying the key tools that meet your needs and the ways and means by which you will benefit most from their usage.
One-to-one training and support in person or via remote instruction. - Continuing support throughout your time in TU Dublin where you can meet with your Assistive Technology Officer on an ongoing basis to support your progress and identify new technologies that you may benefit from. Your Assistive Technology Officer is available for meetings throughout the year to check back in, review how tools and strategies are working and provide support with the evolving demands of your course
- Assistance with alternative formats, including but not limited to the creation of enlarged texts, conversion from text to audio, colour, contrast, and format editing of electronic documents to meet your specific needs.
Assistive Technology is not a stand-alone support and is used in conjunction with other disability supports. Your Assistive Technology Officer will work closely with your Learning Support Officer and if referred, your Occupational Therapist.
What kind of support is offered after an Assistive Technology Needs Assessment?
Students can be provided with a range of Assistive Technologies, support, and training with hardware and software/apps with features that include:
- Self-timers
- Personal reading/scanning pens
- Microsoft/365 users’ accessibility information
- Apple users’ accessibility information
- Screen Reading tools
- Speech-to-text and Text-to-speech software
- Screen masking
- Voice recognition
- Advanced grammar, spelling, and comprehension assistance
- Recording Devices/Dictation & Transcription Apps
- Note-Taking aids
- Deaf Loop systems
- CCTV and Screen Magnifiers
- Electronic dictation
- Scanning
- Assignment and study tools
- Alternative formats and format conversion
- Mobility/Ergonomics
- Organisational and planning tools
- Access to online training courses