Assistive Technology and Tools at Duke

Assistive Technology

What is Assistive Technology (AT)?

Assistive Technology (often abbreviated as AT) is an umbrella term for a piece of equipment, software, or product that can assist people with disabilities to perform tasks more easily or independently.

Assistive Technology at Duke

It can be difficult to find the right piece of assistive technology to meet the needs of every person. At Duke, we strive to provide a wide range of available technologies to address such needs. Here is a list of some of the accessible software, hardware, and equipment available for demonstration or loan:

• Dragon Naturally Speaking - Voice recognition software
• JAWs - Screen reading software
• SensusAccess - Document conversion tool (create alternative, accessible versions of files)
• Read&Write Gold - Text-to-Speech tool within a comprehensive literacy software
• ZoomText Software - Screen magnification software
• Livescribe Echo SmartPen - Assistive note taking device that links audio recordings to your handwritten notes
• Assistive Listening Devices - Small and large group FM and RF systems
• Digital Recorders
• Optelec ClearView CCTV - Magnifies anything placed under it from 2x to 85x its original size

To discuss what type of technology may be right for you, please contact 919-668-1267 or email DAAS@duke.edu to schedule a technology training or demonstration appointment.

Ada StUDY ROOM (PERKINS LIBRARY)

The ADA Study room is located on the first floor of Perkins Library in Room 127. This room is available to students who are registered with the SDAO and are eligible to receive the use of this room and its assistive technologies. For further information and any questions please email libraryada@duke.edu 

Assistive Listening Systems

Duke provides classrooms/auditoriums with permanently installed assistive listening systems. Receivers can be borrowed, free of charge, from either the venue itself, or from Duke Access and Accommodation Services (formerly DMS) directly.

Alternative Media Tools

Duke Access and Accommodation Services (formerly DMS) provides alternative format materials for eligible students when possible and in accordance with all copyright laws and exceptions. Every attempt is made to provide alternative format in the most efficient and effective way possible.

Converting Documents with SensusAccess

DAAS also uses software (SensusAccess) that converts documents online from text or image-based files into different formats, such as searchable PDFs, audio, Braille, or e-text. The completed conversion document will be delivered via email. SensusAccess is available to all Duke staff, students, and faculty with a Duke University email address. Please note that the quality of the converted document depends on the quality of the original document. For example, a clearly structured Word document will yield a better result than a poorly scanned PDF.

Please contact DAAS at 919.668.1267 or DAAS@duke.edu if you have any questions.

Convert a Document

Use SensusAccess's RoboBraille tool to convert a document to an alternative, accessible format. Follow four easy steps to have your document converted into an alternative, accessible format. The result is delivered in your email inbox. You may upload one or more files, enter a URL to a file, or simply type in the text you wish to have converted.