NCC is committed to ensuring that all services, programs, and activities are accessible to students with disabilities.

Adaptive or assistive technology is hardware and software designed to assist individuals who have difficulty accessing information systems using conventional methods. For example, mini keyboards can be used by people with a small range of hand movement, and screen readers can be used by people who are blind or dyslexic.  The Technology Related Assistance to Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 (Tech Act) first described an assistive technology device as “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.”   Consider visiting these local assistive technology web sites to get more information and access to resources.

• Connecticut Technology Act Project
• New England Assistive Technology Resource and Education Center
• Disability Resource Center of CT

For training in the proper use of equipment, students need to contact the AdaptiveTechnology Specialist in the Academic Enrichment Office, Room West 209j. Please make an appointment by email, telephone (857- 6844), or come to the office. Suggest 2-3 times you would be available to meet during her scheduled hours.

Dedicated Computers

There are three computers on-campus that are dedicated for use by students with disabilities. These computers are loaded with the accessibility software listed below. Students registered with Student AccessAbility Services Office are given priority access. The computers are situated in the following locations:

• E. Matilda Ziegler Adaptive Technology Lab – West 209J
• Tutoring Center – West 110
• Baker Library (for assistance see Reference Librarian or Circulation desk )

Software on the Dedicated Computers

Read&Write for Google Chrome – Texthelp

Improve reading and writing with text to speech, speech to text, audio dictionary, word prediction, etc. The Read&Write toolbar integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace for Education apps. To make it easy for students ..

Zoom Text

This software enlarges what appears on the monitor from 220 times its usual size. Color (contrast) and mouse icons can also be adjusted. It is for use by students with visual disabilities.

Jaws

JAWS is a computer screen reading program that reads what appears on the monitor. It is for use by students with visual or reading disabilities to create documents or to access the Internet.

Dragon Naturally Speaking

Voice recognition software that types while you speak.
NOTE: The Information Technology Department can install this software in classrooms and computer labs in response to student needs.

Other Assistive Technology Available

Access Text

Publisher’s distribution of e-text.

Learning Ally (RFB&D) Audiobooks

The College has a membership with Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic and provides audiobooks on CDs for eligible students. CDs ordered from RFB&D can be listened to with a specialized CD player that is available at the library and in the Adaptive Technology Lab (West 209j). These players may only be used on campus. Students can purchase players and software from RFB&D to use off-campus.

Optelec

Optelec magnifies any print material placed under it from 2 to over 50 times its original size. The color (contrast), size and brightness (image) of the screen can also be adjusted.

Livescribe Echo Smartpens

Livescribe Smartpens simultaneously record the handwritten notes and audio recordings of the lectures for later review.