Assistive Technology

BMAC offers a range of assistive technology tools that help students with disabilities access information, take notes, read, communicate, and study in ways that work best for them. Some tools are available for general use, while others are provided as approved accommodations, depending on each student’s access needs. 

The process for accessing each tool varies. Students who are eligible for certain technologies will receive instructions and login details once their accommodation is approved. BMAC staff are available to help students learn how to use these tools and understand which technologies are part of their accommodation plan. 

For questions or support, students can reach the Accessible Technology Program (BMAC-ATP) at bmac-atp@csulb.edu. 

Adaptive devices provide alternative ways for students to interact with technology. Examples include: 

  • Specialized keyboards and mice
  • Mouth sticks
  • Button switches
  • Sip-and-puff switches for hands-free computer use
  • Video magnifiers for enlarging text or images 

Video Magnifier

A video magnifier uses a camera and screen to enlarge printed or digital content. Students can adjust magnification, contrast, and lighting based on their needs. 

UbiDuo 3 

UbiDuo allows two people to communicate face-to-face through real-time typed messages. This tool may support students who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech-related disabilities. 

Notetaking technology gives students different ways to capture and organize information, such as through audio recording, transcripts, or annotation. 

Genio Notes 

Genio Notes allows students to create organized notes, bookmark important points, and record audio. Access is provided to students who have this tool included in their accommodation plan. 

Otter.ai 

Otter.ai creates editable transcripts from live or recorded audio. Students can highlight key points, replay audio, and review notes. Access is provided to students who have this tool included in their accommodation plan. 

These tools support students who are blind or have low vision by reading digital content aloud, enlarging on-screen information, or providing output to a refreshable braille device. They are available to all ºÚÁÏÍø students, faculty, and staff. 

JAWS (Job Access With Speech) 

JAWS is a comprehensive screen reader that allows users to navigate websites, documents, and Windows applications using speech or braille output. It is commonly used by individuals who are blind or have significant vision loss. 

ZoomText Magnifier/Reader 

ZoomText provides screen magnification, enhanced contrast options, and optional speech output. It supports individuals with low vision who benefit from enlarged or visually enhanced screen content. 

Fusion 

Fusion combines JAWS and ZoomText into a single package, offering both screen reading and magnification features. Users can choose the level of visual or speech support that works best for them. 

Access for ºÚÁÏÍø Students, Faculty, and Staff 

Students, faculty, and staff may download JAWS, ZoomText, or Fusion on their personal (non-CSU) computers using their CSU email address: 

 

  • Two concurrent installations are allowed on personal devices.
  • Users can manage machine authorizations directly to move licenses between computers as needed.
  • These tools are also available on many campus computer lab stations. 

Speech-to-text tools convert spoken words into written text and allow students to use voice commands to navigate their computer. 

Dragon Professional 

Dragon Professional converts speech into text and allows students to control computer functions using voice commands. Access is provided to students who have this tool included in their accommodation plan. 

Text-to-speech tools read digital content aloud and support students who benefit from listening while reading or studying. 

ReadSpeaker TextAid 

TextAid is a web-based tool that reads digital text aloud and includes supports for reading and studying. All students registered with BMAC can access TextAid through Single Sign-On (SSO), and students approved for alternative format accommodations may request their course materials to be uploaded to TextAid.