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What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive technology (AT) helps individuals with disabilities perform tasks which might otherwise pose challenges or not be possible. In higher education this could include accessible text-to-speech support for reading materials, speech-to-text for writing support, braille transcription, closed captioning, audio description for visual media, Communication Access Real-time Translation (CART), note taking solutions, and utilization of mobile devices to assist with memory retention and organization.

Assistive technology services consults are available to all American University students, faculty, staff, and alumni. The use of assistive technology as an accommodation for a disability in the classroom or for testing may also be requested. If you wish to request such accommodations, please follow the procedures for documenting a disability found at Registering for Accommodations.

Students

  • Meet with an Office of Disability Support (OSDS) advisor. To schedule an appointment, call 202-885-3360 or visit our office in Butler Pavilion 300.

Faculty & Staff

For questions regarding assistive technology at AU, please contact the Assistant Director of Disability Support and Assistive Technology at 202-885-2392 or by email at [email protected].

Bender Library

  • The Bender Library has a Mac and PC computer that are both programmed with Kurzweil, screen reading, and screen magnification technology. These computers are available on the 2nd floor.

  • An UbiDuo communication device for Deaf/hard of hearing individuals is located at Media Services on the lower level.

  • A CCTV is available on the 2nd floor.
  • Accessible self-service book scanning is located on the lower level.
  • Contact the library’s information desk staff at 202-885-3232 for additional assistance.

Career Center, Butler Pavilion, Room 5th Floor

  • A computer with assistive technology is available to assist with searching for jobs.
  • Contact the Career Center at 202-885-1804 or by e-mail at [email protected] for additional assistance.