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Discover how the University of Montana’s Accessible Technology Services enhance educational accessibility support through innovative assistive technologies and inclusive programs.

Understanding Accessible Technology Services (ATS)

At the University of Montana, Accessible Technology Services (ATS) plays a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive educational environment. ATS is dedicated to supporting students and staff by providing a wide array of accessible web, media, documents, course materials, and electronic information technology resources. By leveraging assistive technologies and adhering to Universal Design principles, ATS ensures that everyone has equal access to the university’s digital and educational resources.

Key Services and Programs

Comprehensive Assistive Technology

ATS offers a range of assistive technologies tailored to meet diverse needs. These include:

Screen Readers and Magnification Tools: Helping individuals with visual impairments navigate digital content effortlessly.
Speech-to-Text Software: Assisting those with writing difficulties or physical disabilities in creating documents and assignments.
Alternative Input Devices: Enhancing accessibility for users with motor impairments through specialized keyboards and mouse alternatives.

Accessible Media and Document Services

Creating accessible educational materials is essential for inclusive learning. ATS provides:

Audio/Video Captioning and Transcription: Ensuring instructional videos and other electronic media are accessible to all students.
Alternative Format Acquisitions: Offering textbooks and other learning materials in formats such as Braille, large print, and digital text to accommodate various needs.
Document Formatting and Checking: Converting and verifying documents to ensure they meet accessibility standards.

Training and Support

Empowering the university community with the knowledge and skills to use assistive technologies effectively is a core mission of ATS. Services include:

Assistive Technology Training: Providing hands-on training sessions for students and staff to maximize the use of accessible tools.
Self-Help Articles and Resources: Offering a comprehensive library of resources that address common accessibility challenges and solutions.
Personalized Support: ATS specialists are available to offer one-on-one assistance, ensuring that users receive the tailored help they need.

Empowering Students and Staff

The impact of ATS is profound, enhancing the educational experience for both students and staff. By removing barriers to access, ATS enables individuals to fully engage with their academic and professional pursuits. This support not only promotes academic success but also fosters a more inclusive and diverse university community.

ATS Staff and Expertise

The strength of ATS lies in its dedicated team of professionals:

Brenda Miller, Alternative Formats Specialist: Brenda oversees the acquisition and distribution of materials in alternative formats, ensuring that all students have the resources they need.
Jolynn Page, Accessible Technology Specialist: Jolynn specializes in implementing and maintaining assistive technologies, providing expert guidance to users.
Don-Vincent Snell, Accessible Software Training Specialist: Don-Vincent focuses on training users to effectively utilize accessible software, enhancing their digital literacy and independence.

Commitment to Inclusive Education

ATS is unwavering in its commitment to inclusive education. By integrating Universal Design principles into all services and programs, ATS not only meets but exceeds accessibility standards. This dedication ensures that every member of the University of Montana community can participate fully in educational initiatives, regardless of their individual challenges or needs.

Future Initiatives and Collaborations

Looking ahead, ATS aims to expand its services and explore new collaborations to further enhance educational accessibility support. Initiatives may include partnerships with innovative technology providers like Ally, an AI assistant designed to assist individuals with visual impairments, thereby expanding the toolkit available to students and staff for their educational journeys.

Get Started with Accessible Technology Services

Enhancing your educational experience is just a click away. Explore the comprehensive services and support offered by the University of Montana’s Accessible Technology Services here.