New and re-conditioned computers that translate printed text to Braille, ³speak² on-screen words out loud and require only an easy-to-manoeuvre mouse for word processing will be in use and on display at the official opening of UVic's Resource Centre for Students with a Disability at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 27.
The Centre, occupying rooms 208 and 210 on the second floor of the McPherson Library, provides students with facilities and space to complete assignments, write exams, rest and meet. In January, Pierre Laliberte was hired on a four-month contract to organize the equipment and assist students using the room during regular office hours.
Computers at eight workstations feature special software designed to assist students with a disability. After the scanned text of a conventional printed exam is loaded into one computer, it ³translates² the document into Braille and prints it in that format so a visually-impaired student can read and complete the exam. Another computer reads scanned text out loud through a voice synthesizer. One program increases on-screen text by up to 16 times its original size.
Students with mobility problems that restrict their ability to type can use a program that displays an on-screen keyboard whose ³keys² are selected by moving a mouse. Often the selection of just a few letters is sufficient to activate the program's word prediction system and the entire word is selected automatically, saving the student time and effort.
The Centre is wheelchair accessible and adjustable-height tables are on order to make it easier for students in wheelchairs to access the work stations. Students can use the Centre for writing exams, and there's a couch for students who need a place to rest.
Two of the computer stations were purchased through a $15,000 grant from the Victoria-based McAdams Foundation.
The Ring
University of Victoria
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