Assistive Technology
Once registered with Accessible Learning, you can access our assistive technology (AT) supports and services like:
- Exploring equipment and software that might assist with academic tasks.
- Tutorials and tips on software and devices.
- Technical help with assistive technology.
Assistive technologists also provide support for reading and using technology during exams. Click the relevant heading below for more information.
There are many free software options that supports reading textbooks and other course materials aloud, including:
- Immersive Reader (Office365 - Windows and Mac)
- Spoken Content (Mac)
- Narrator (Windows)
- NVDA (Windows)
- Natural Reader
- Speechify
- Read & Write
Office 365 is available to all students enrolled at Laurier and the University supports its built-in tools and features.
Many of the above vendors offer free and paid versions of their software.
Have questions? Contact one of our Assistive Technologists.
Your exam accommodations may include using reading and/or writing software. While using this software, some features like spell check, may not be available.
If your exam accommodations includes using technology, make sure that you:
- Book your exams by posted deadlines.
- Familiarize yourself with the technology well before your exams, and speak with an Assistive Technologist for support.
- Bring headphones without Bluetooth for listening or dictation.
- Alert the proctor immediately if you encounter any difficulties. They will contact an Assistive Technologist if necessary.
EXAM TYPES AND SOFTWARE OPTIONS
Depending on whether your exam is in-person and paper-based or online, you may be permitted to use various types software and/or features. The table below lists possible software options for various types of exams.
Note: For students whose access needs are not met by any of the following software, Accessible Learning offers Kurzweil for use during exams.
| Exam Type | Software and/or Feature |
|
In-person paper exam |
Immersive Reader in Word (YouTube) |
|
In-person online |
Spoken Content (Mac) |
|
Remote, Online (Lockdown Browser) |
Spoken Content (Mac) |
|
Remote, Online (No Lockdown Browser) |
Spoken Content (Mac) |