Assistive Technology

Assistive technology refers to tools and devices that help people with disability to address barriers to their participation in learning and improve their academic performance. In tertiary education, assistive technology can benefit students by providing access to information and course materials, improving their ability to take notes, complete assignments, and participate in class discussions in formats that suit their needs.

For example, text-to-speech software can read course material aloud, screen readers can help Blind or visually impaired students navigate websites and online resources, and speech recognition software can help with dictation. Additionally, assistive technology can provide students with the tools necessary to demonstrate their understanding of course material and can improve their overall learning experience by promoting greater independence and self-advocacy.

There is a plethora of assistive technology applications and technology is changing and improving all the time.

Assistive Technology as a reasonable adjustment

Assistive Technology is a common reasonable adjustment provided to students with a range of different disabilities. This section aims to provide some common assistive technologies that students might already be using or be provided as part of an Access Plan. Talk to your Disability Practitioner about whether or not assistive technology would benefit you while studying.

These resources are arranged by type of activity. To view more AT resources by type of disability visit our Assistive Technology pages. These pages also include specific AT for Blind or impaired students, Deaf or hard of hearing students, and students with physical disability.