Resources
The below assistive technology resources are available at no cost to students who are registered with the Office of Disability Resources to support learning.
Contact us to let us know what you’re interested in using or let us know if you have any questions about these resources. Some of these resources (i.e. software licenses) can be provided for an extended period of time, and others will be provided on a first-come, first-serve basis for short-term rentals.
We've also included below some on-campus and external resources you may find helpful, as well as some low- and no-cost assistive tech apps.
Assistive Technology Resources
Classroom Resources
Glean Note Taking Software
- A web-based audio note taking app that allows you to access class recordings and notes from any device. Glean allows you to record audio during in-person or online classes and link your notes with specific moments in the lecture. As of 2022, Glean also includes on-demand ASR transcription.
- View a one-minute overview of the app
- How to use Glean transcription
- Available as app or web-based
- For use in-person or online
Otter.ai Software
- Live transcription using artificial intelligence. It’s free to set up an account (600 minutes/month of transcription), but we have a limited number of premium accounts available which allow for up to 6000 minutes/month of transcription.
- You can add terminology from your courses for more accurate transcription.
- You can also upload previously recorded audio and video files for transcription.
- Video on using Otter.ai online
- Video on using Otter.ai app
- Available as app or web-based
- For use in person or online
Livescribe SmartPens and Notebooks
- Livescribe SmartPens record everything you hear, say, and write, while linking your audio recordings to your notes.
- You can replay the audio recordings right from your Smart Notebook by tapping anywhere in your notes with the SmartPen or upload the notes to your computer and replay the audio by clicking anywhere in the notes with your mouse.
- The Office of Disability Resources provides Livescribe Echo SmartPens:
- Watch a video demonstration
- Read the video transcript
- Captures lecture audio and synchronizes the audio with the notes you take in the Livescribe notebooks.
- Learn more about Livescribe
Reading and Writing Resources
Read and Write Software
- Allows you to have electronic texts read aloud, converts documents to Mp3 formats, and offers tools to support writing.
- Tools include text to speech, highlighters to help collect your thoughts and take notes, word prediction, advanced spelling grammar check
- Learn more about Read and Write
- Contact the Office of Disability Resources to request a license.
Dragon Dictation Software
- Transcription software that allows you to dictate papers, exams, or other written materials quickly and accurately.
- Deep Learning tech adapts to your voice and controls for environmental variations
- Only available on PCs
- Learn more about Dragon
Math Resources
EquatIO Software
- Easily type, handwrite, or dictate equations to be converted to digital math text
- Learn more about EquatIO
- Contact the Office of Disability Resources to request a license.
Testing/Studying Resources
- Laptops and tablets are available for short-term loan.
- Noise canceling headphones are also available for short-term loan.
Other Resources
- Sensus Access is a free tool that allows members of the University community to convert inaccessible course materials into more accessible formats. For example, you could convert a PDF file into a text file, audio file, or e-book format.
- Zoom has several built-in accessibility features, including an auto-transcription/captioning feature using artificial intelligence. Download our tip sheet (Word).
- There are many other software programs available to you through Classroom Technology. View the updated software list for campus computers
- Ear plugs
- Fidget toys
Assistive Technology Apps
Select from the categories below to view low- or no-cost assistive technology apps. If you have any questions about these apps or would like to suggest one we should add to our list, please contact us.
Reading
ABBY TextGrabber
- For turning paper hard copy into readable PDF
- App uses phone's camera to turn text on paper into text that can then be read aloud
- OCR is good enough for text-to-speech
- Available on iOS and Android
Beeline Reader
- Uses a color gradient to guide your eyes from the end of one line to the beginning of the next, allowing you to transition between lines quickly and effortlessly
- Available as browser extension on Chrome or Firefox, or as app for Android or iOS; iPad app works with Kindle books
Bookshare
- Web-based digital book library in accessible formats for people with print disabilities
- Available as online resource
Google Dictionary
- View definitions easily as you browse the web
- Double-click any word to view its definition in a small pop-up bubble
- Includes audio pronunciation
- Available on Chrome
Natural Reader
- Converts any written text such as MS Word, Webpage, PDF files, and emails into spoken words
- Change reading voices and speed
- Available on Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, and Chrome
Read & Write
- Makes reading easier and ensures accurate writing
- Support features include text-to-speech, word prediction, phonetic spell checker, homophone and confusables checker, dictionary, picture dictionary, customizable background and text colors, choice of voices and fonts, importing and sharing documents
- Available on Chrome, iOS, and Android; contact us about the software version for Mac or Windows
Voice Dream
- Listen to PDF and Word documents, eBooks, articles, and webpages anywhere with offline text-to-speech
- Built-in integration with Dropbox, Bookshare, Pocket, Evernote, and Gutenberg
- Sophisticated controls, synchronized word highlighting and autoscrolling
- Available on iOS and Android
VoiceOver
- Built-in screen reader available on Mac, iPhone, and iPad
- Allows the device to read out loud icons, menus, and web articles, making it easier for the blind and those with low-vision to use a computer
Writing
Ginger Grammar Checker and Spell Checker
- Automatically corrects unusual spelling mistakes, misused words, and grammar errors in MS Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Chrome, and Safari
- Provides valuable writing support
- Available on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and as Chrome or Safari extension
iAnnotate
- Read, mark up, and share PDF, DOC, PPT, and image files
- Fill out handouts or worksheets by typing or writing on them
- Available on iOS
iOS Dictation
- Built in to iOS. No app needed!
- Tap the microphone button on the keyboard, say what you want to write, and your iOS device converts your words (and numbers and characters) into text
Read & Write
- Makes reading easier and ensures accurate writing
- Support features include text-to-speech, word prediction, phonetic spell checker, homophone and confusables checker, dictionary, picture dictionary, customizable background and text colors, choice of voices and fonts, importing and sharing documents
- Available on Chrome, iOS, and Android; contact us about the software version for Mac or Windows
VoiceDream Writer
- Writing tool with text-to-speech proofreading that reduces mistakes, includes phonetic and meaning search to help you use the right words
- Active outline helps you organize and improve the structure of your writing
- Available on iOS
Studying, Researching, and Note Taking
AudioNote
- Synchronized note taking and audio recording
- Text or handwritten notes
- Seek directly within audio by tapping text or drawings
- Highlighted notes during playback
- Available on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
Dropbox
- Free service that lets you bring your photos, docs, and videos anywhere and share them easily
- Any file you save to Dropbox also instantly saves to your computers, phones, and the Dropbox website
- Available as an online resource
Evernote
- Easy-to-use, free app that helps you remember everything across all of the devices you use
- Helps you stay organized, save your ideas and improve productivity
- Available on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android
HippoCampus
- Multimedia instruction to help with your homework and study
- Prevents you from making spelling mistakes before they happen and helps you select the best word choice possible
- Available as an online resource
iStudiez Pro
- Easy navigation so you will never miss another course, lecture and lab
- Track tasks and deadlines, plan homework, arrange assignments, and much more
- Available on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android
Khan Academy
- A collection of more than 3,200 micro lectures via video tutorials stored on YouTube teaching mathematics, history, healthcare and medicine, finance, physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, economics, cosmology, organic chemistry, American civics, art history, microeconomics, and computer science
- Available as an online resource
Multitasking Features on iPad
- Turns the iPad into multiple resizable reading devices working in parallel
myHomework
- Organization tool that tracks your classes, homework and projects so you never forget an assignment again
- Available on Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, Kindle Fire, and Chrome
Notability
- Create, share, and manage your notes
- Combines handwriting, typing, audio recordings, and photos so you can create notes that fit your needs
- Available on iOS
Popplet
- Brainstorm online; easily create colorful mindmaps to print or share with others
- Available as an online resource and on iOS
Quizlet
- Study site providing powerful learning tools and games
- Has 6 different study modes, including Flashcard maker
- Available on iOS, Android, and as an online resource
VoiceNote
- The VoiceNote application allows typing on a computer, by dictating text to the microphone
- Includes option to speak punctuation or use the punctuation buttons
- Available as Chrome extension
Time Managament, Focus, and Productivity
Any.do
- Intuitive app to organize tasks, lists, and reminders
- Available on iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, web, Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, Apple Watch, and more
Calendar by Readdle
- Connect calendars across platforms: iCal, Google, Exchange, Facebook, Outlook, and AOL
- Includes task management and organization features
- Available on iOS
Fantastical
- Calendar and task management
- Works across devices: Mac, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Watch
Focus@Will
- Music to help focus those with ADD
- Available on iOS
Focusmate
- Virtual coworking to help you get things done
- Science-based approach to increase accountability and productivity
- Available as online resource
Focus Keeper
- Uses Pomodoro method for time management to help avoid burnout
- Available on iOS
Forest
- Gameified focusing app that allows you to grow a virtual tree; your tree grows when you focus and avoid distractions on your phone
- Available on iOS
Google Keep
- Create notes, lists, and audio to save your thoughts
- Set location- and time-based reminders
- Connected to your Google account
MinimaList
- Simple design for managing multiple lists
- Features the Pomodoro Technique
- Available on iOS
My Study Life
- Organize your classes, tasks, and exams
- Includes color coding options and reminders
- Available on iOS, Android, and web
Priority Matrix
- Project/priority management software using the Eisenhower method framework
- Available on Mac, Windows, web, iOS, Android, Office 365, Gsuite, and Slack
Remember the Milk
- Task list app with reminders
- Available on iOS
Todoist
- Task management that allows you to create topic groups for your to-dos, create subtasks, and share tasks
- Integrates with other apps such as Dropbox, Google Calendar, and Alexa
- Available on Mac, Windows, iOS, Apple Watch, Android, web, and as an email add-on
Trello
- Organize and prioritize projects with teams using boards, lists, and cards
- Available on Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, web
On-Campus Resources
Gwen M. Greene Center for Career Education and Connections advisors are available to assist students in achieving their individual career goals. Visit their website or contact their office for resources on workplace accommodations and a list of employers seeking people with disabilities for various positions.
The Learning Center — Supporting undergraduate students with services that promote academic success, including course-specific collaborative workshops and study groups, academic success coaching and study skills course, and tutoring.
University Counseling Center (UCC)—Individual and group therapy provided by licensed professionals are available under the student health fee at UCC. Support groups are also offered. Transition-specific resources for parents and friends are found on the UCC’s parent’s page.
University Health Service (UHS)—The University Health Service (UHS) provides a full range of confidential, high quality primary care services for full-time students. The UHS clinical staff includes registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and physicians, all of whom have a special interest in the care and treatment of students and other members of the college community.
College Center for Advising Services (CCAS)—CCAS advisors can offer guidance on any academic-related concern or question to clarify program requirements.
Writing, Speaking and Argument Program (WSAP)—WSAP helps students with writing and speaking assignments, including foundational planning, formulating persuasive arguments, and making strong conclusions.
Parent and Family Relations—Housed in the Office of the Dean of Students, parent and family relations staff serve as a resource for families during your student's undergraduate years.
River Campus Libraries—Learn how to use our vast library resources and consult with expert research librarians.
- HathiTrust—HathiTrust Digital Library is a collection of over 15 million volumes of searchable books, journals, and government documents, including 5.8 million available as full-text online.
- Digitization Service—Requests to digitize portions of print materials may be made through the online catalog.
- Interlibrary Loan—The University's Interlibrary Loan program can assist in providing accessible PDF versions of materials that are not available in our own library.
Rush Rhees Library Study Spaces—The library offers a variety of study space that can be the perfect change of venue to improve focus.
CARE Network—The CARE network, one component of the Center for Student Conflict Management, effectively connects students in distress with appropriate campus resources. The CARE network relies on students, staff, faculty, and parents to submit CARE reports when they are significantly concerned about the well-being of a University student.
Veterans Alliance at the University of Rochester—The Veterans Alliance provides military students, staff, faculty, alumni and their families with the resources, support, and advocacy needed to succeed in higher education.
External Resources
Publications
Conner, David J. (2012). Helping Students With Disabilities Transition to College: 21 Tips for Students With LD and/or ADD/ADHD. Teaching Exceptional Children, 44(5), 16-25.
Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education’s publications:
- “Students with Disabilities Preparing for Post-Secondary Education: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities”
- “Transition of Students With Disabilities to Post-secondary Education: A Guide for High School Educators”
Shaw, S.F., Madaus, J.W. & Dukes, L.L., III (Eds.). (2010). Preparing Students with Disabilities for College Success: A Practical Guide for TransitionPlanning. Baltimore, MD: Brookes.
Online
Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ABVI) provides orientation and adaptive technology consultations for students who are blind or who have low vision.
Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) is a national organization for professionals serving students with disabilities at the post-secondary level. Students and parents can also find links to resources and explore further the topics surrounding disability issues in higher education.
Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) has compiled a list of recommended accommodations and transition resources in print to support students with ADHD.
The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) offers their handbook, Navigating College, written by adults on the autism spectrum to guide transitioning college students.
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) offers articles related to transition for students and their parents to aid in the transition from high school.
DO-IT: University of Washington is a comprehensive clearinghouse of information, tip sheets and resources for students with disabilities, their parents and higher education faculty and staff.
LD Online offers a wealth of resources. Links abound within LD Online's College and College Prep web pages.
Mobility International USA—features strategies and stories on how people with disabilities participate in international exchange programs.
National Center for Learning Disabilities maintains a compilation of articles and podcasts that help students and families plan for post-secondary transition.
Organization for Autism Research offers a publication for parents: A Guide For Transition to Adulthood.
National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes is a website aimed toward supporting deaf and hard-of-hearing students in higher education. iTransition is a curriculum for students 14 and up to explore college and create a portfolio of information to aid in their college search.
Tips for students with disabilities—Ten tips for college students with disabilities.
Veterans Outreach Center assists our veteran students in transition to 2-year or 4-year colleges enrolling under the Post 9/11 GI Bill.