1. DIGITAL INCLUSIVITY: Strategies for Implementing New AT on College Campuses

2. Accessing Higher Ground 2016
Michele
Bromley
Will
Skeels

3. Presentation Summary
Portland State University and Kurzweil Education detail the successes and struggles involved in implementing a new adaptive technology (AT) like Kurzweil 3000 on a college campus. Presenters will focus on effective best practices and strategies for preparing the institution and students with disabilities for the ways in which new AT can affect learning.

4. The right adaptive technology (AT) can allow students with cognitive, intellectual, or visual disabilities to develop independent reading, writing, and studying skills that celebrate their learning strengths and differences. Disability services professionals can nonetheless feel unprepared to successfully implement new AT on their campuses.

5. Why use Kurzweil as an example?
When a multi-modal reading, writing, and note taking platform (like Kurzweil ) is introduced without necessary consideration and support, it is often underutilized and therefore ineffective in providing increased access for students with disabilities.

6. In Summary
The institution’s role in developing implementation protocols and providing student support.
The vendor’s part in accessing disability services staff and providing them with the tools and information they need.

7. Protocols and Processes

8. Getting What You Need from Students
Developing a clear and cohesive alternative format request process
Instituting an acceptable use agreement for students receiving alternative formats
Requiring proof of purchase or rental from students receiving alternative formats

9. Requesting/Creating Alternative Formats
Working either directly with the publisher or with conduits like AccessText and Bookshare
Directing and implementing conversions based on alternative format preference and academic need
Contracting out to qualified alternative formats vendors when it is necessary or more cost effective

10. Determining Optimum Delivery Methods
Determining optimum delivery methods (i.e. Google Drive, Dropbox, Kurzweil, etc.)
Establishing the path of least resistance: what works well for you and, more importantly, for the student?

11. Assessing Adaptive Technology Needs
Developing and administering an Adaptive Technology Needs Assessment
Establishing a need for reading, comprehension, and note taking tools
Comparing, contrasting, and choosing the right tools for your institution
How did we approach choosing Kurzweil 3000?

12. Effective Implementation

13. Planning
Fostering relationship between vendor and institution - establishing staff end-users
Determining likely platforms from which users will need access: Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, tablets, phones

14. Collaborating Software/application installation guidelines
How license management works
Student training, file distribution process
Following up with formal training from a professional development (PD) expert

15. Preparing Students Recruiting and preparing focused user groups
What technical supports will appeal most to students?
What are the most common areas of academic struggle?
How do we interest students in new technology?

16. Learning from Students
Executing a series of beta tests and examining beta test feedback
Where are the likely pitfalls for new users?
What level of support do students need?
How can we troubleshoot technical issues?

17. Preparing for Launch Designing email templates and training materials
How do we share the information students need without overwhelming them?
Launching the software with group training and information sessions
Keeping training and support manageable for DSS staff

18. Ongoing Training and Support

19. Providing Ongoing Support (Vendor)
Regular checkups as determined by institution’s comfort with technology. Focus on the following:
Students are rostered
Students are logging in
Lead user is comfortable

20. Providing Ongoing Support (Institution)
Scheduling initial training and support sessions for new student users
Individual or group sessions based on need
Troubleshooting issues in real time
Utilizing technical support from the vendor

21. Thank you for coming! Any questions?
Copies of the resources described in this presentation (acceptable use agreements, adaptive technology needs assessments, templates, user guides, etc.) are available upon request.