Special Populations Collaborative

Effective Practices for Students with Disabilities

Contra Costa College, High Tech Center to Support Students with Disabilities

The High Tech Center is a computer laboratory designed to train students with disabilities to access Windows, Microsoft Office, the Internet, e-mail and printed material with adaptive technologies. These technologies enable the students to gain access to standard college coursework. All students that are accepted into DSPS are eligible to use the High Tech Center. With diligent application of the skills gained in the High Tech Center, students are better prepared for success in their college course endeavors and future employment.
Software available in the center:

  • Voice Recognition with Dragon Naturally Speaking
  • Screenreading with JAWS
  • Screen magnification with ZoomText
  • Mind mapping with Inspiration
  • Kurzweil 1000 Scan and Read technology for users who are blind
  • Kurzweil 3000 Scan and Read technology for users with learning disabilities
  • Skills Tutor Online instruction and tutoring to increase academic achievement

Hardware available:

  • Large height adjustable flat-panel monitors for students with low vision
  • Height adjustable workstations for students who use mobility devices
  • Large print keyboards for students with low vision
  • Mini keyboard and track balls for students with limited reach and dexterity
  • Flatbed scanners for reading/editing printed material with Kurzweil 1000 or 3000
  • CCTV for reading printed material

High Tech Center Protocol" (or) "The Do’s and Don’ts of the Lab"

  1. The HTC is a place to learn and complete assignments. Please refrain from distracting others in the lab.
  2. The person in charge of the lab is the Computer Aided Instruction Lab Coordinator. This person or an Instructional Aide will assist you when you are in the lab.
  3. Computers are available on a first come, first serve basis.
  4. Before beginning your work, remember to sign the sign in sheet with your Student ID number.
  5. If you will be using a computer for an examination, you must make prior arrangements with your instructor, DSPS and have proper documentation for an accommodation.
  6. Making copies of software is strictly prohibited.

For more information contact Contra Costa College DSPS Services.