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University Information Technology Services (UITS) has opened an assistive information technology lab in the first-floor media reserve area of IU Bloomington's Main Library.
The lab is similar to other UITS Student Technology Centers but offers hardware and software to students who need special assistance using technology in support of their academic pursuits. Assistance includes voice-recognition software, large monitors, headsets and screen reading for the visually impaired; computer mice operated with foot pedals for those with carpal tunnel syndrome; electronically adjustable desks and supports for students who use wheelchairs; and scanning equipment and software for viewing reading material.
"I'm very encouraged that we've been able to provide students with such a great resource," said Margaret Londergan, coordinator of technology at UITS and chair of the IUB Task Force on Assistive Technology. "One student with severe carpal tunnel syndrome, on the verge of quitting school, was able to complete her dissertation using a laptop and voice recognition software. She's now a faculty member at a major university," she said.
The lab is available as a general work area, and UITS encourages visitors to drop by. Workstations are separated into carrels. "We have the work areas set up so there's more privacy than in a standard Student Technology Center," Londergan said. "And that improves the quality of the voice recognition because there's no interference from background noise."
Trained consultants provide one-on-one consulting and instruction on using the technology. "We have the ability to provide technology-based, student specific solutions to support academic success," said Londergan, "That's what we're here for."
UITS offers consulting both at the lab and at home (through a new no-cost service). The service offers software help and assistance with minor hardware problems at the person's home. Students with disabilities may also check out a laptop for two weeks or longer.
Students must be registered with Disabled Student Services (Franklin Hall 096, 812-855-7578) to check out laptops and for home consulting visits. They do not need to be registered with Disabled Student Services to use the lab, however.
For more information, call the lab at 812-856-4112, E-mail iubdrh@indiana.edu. or go to this Web site:
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