Assistive Technology and Computer Skills

Email dsshightechcenter@dvc.edu for an appointment or call 925-322-1176

Resources

There are many free tools DVC students have access to that can improve their reading, studying, and writing experience, such as audio conversion for Canvas and file content, enhanced reading support, dictation, and more -- no extra signups or accounts required!  Check out all the tools by clicking on this link:  Support Tools for All Students.

Ally alternative formats

In Canvas, Ally allows you to convert Word docs, PowerPoints, and PDFs into other formats such as ePub, electronic Braille, audio, BeeLine Reader, or translated versions.

Brain HQ

Cognitive retraining software that can help users increase their brain’s potential by completing any of the following courses: Driving Rehabilitation, Auditory Rehabilitation, Visual Rehabilitation, Hemineglect Rehabilitation, Hearing in a crowded room, Driving with confidence, Efficiency for everyday tasks, Maximize alertness, Build skills for social situations, Lift the fog of chemobrain, Sharpen auditory processing, Tune up perception, Brain Injury survivor, etc.

Canvas

Learn how to access your online course content, submit assignments, reply to discussion posts, and take quizzes in our college’s learning management system.

Computer basics

Are you "brand new" to using the computer? Well, never fear. No matter how little or how much experience you have with computing, we can help you get comfortable with using these amazing machines.

Dictation tools / Dragon NaturallySpeaking

Have the computer type what you say!  Dictation, or speech recognition programs are helpful for students with mobility impairments, but also for those who tend to write better "out loud".  

Email basics/DVC email

Create an email account and/or learn about features of your current DVC account. Set up email forwarding from DVC to your personal email.

Google Docs

Use Google Docs to create and collaborate on online documents.

Google Slides

Use Google Slides to create online slideshows. Make beautiful presentations together with secure sharing in real-time and from any device.

Immersive Reader

A tool available in Canvas, Microsoft products, and web browsers. Hear text read out loud and enable additional features, like translation or grammar identification.

InSite

Learn how to register for classes, check your financial aid status, and much more.

Internet search skills

Learn to use a web browser and conduct a specific search to get exactly the information you want.

JAWS

JAWS is a powerful accessibility solution that reads information on your screen using synthesized speech. JAWS provides many useful keyboard commands that make it easier to use programs, edit documents, and read Web pages.

Keyboarding/typing skills

Whether you are brand new to typing on a computer or a pro, we have fun software programs that can help you improve your speed and accuracy. We also have two keyboarding programs specifically for individuals with visual impairments.

Kurzweil 1000

A program designed for individuals with visual impairments. You can scan materials in and have the computer read the information aloud.

Kurzweil 3000

Kurzweil 3000TM is a comprehensive reading, writing and learning software solution for any struggling reader, including individuals with learning difficulties, such as dyslexia, attention deficit disorder or those who are English Language Learners.

MindView

A mind-mapping program that helps students with visualizing and brainstorming ideas.  A great way to start tackling large writing assignments and presentations.   

Microsoft Excel

This is a program that creates databases which can be manipulated in a variety of ways, including performing data filters, calculations, and much more.

Microsoft Lens

An app that allows you to scan documents with your phone and export to Word, OneNote, or other device.  Open scans in Immersive Reader for enhanced reading support on the go.

Microsoft Word

Learn basic work processing as well as advanced features to add sophistication to your documents.

Microsoft PowerPoint 

PowerPoint creates powerful visual presentations (like digital slideshows). Learn to create a basic presentation as well as how to add more complex features.

Office 2019 accessibility features

Microsoft Office 2019 has many features already built-in allow this suite of applications to be used more easily by users with specific needs.  Learn how to utilize and customize these accessibility features.

OneDrive

Save your files and photos to OneDrive and access them from any device, anywhere.

Reading tools

Learn tools to help optimize your reading experience such as adjusting line focus, text size, and hearing text read out loud. 

Windows 10 accessibility features

Windows XP contains many features for visual, hearing, physical, and learning accommodations. In addition, the Accessibility Wizard combines several individual accessibility options to personalize the computer.

ZoomText

A screen magnification program that allows users to customize cursors as well as enable a speech function that helps with screen navigation.

Student Assistants are available for drop-in to help. High Tech Center, SSC-250