Florida Tech PAWS: Empowering Students with Assisstive Technology

At Florida Tech, we believe that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their abilities. That's why we're proud to offer Florida Tech PAWS, a comprehensive program that provides assistive technology and support services to students with disabilities.

Florida Tech PAWS is a collaborative effort between the Office of Disability Services and the Information Technology Services department. Together, we work to ensure that students with disabilities have the tools and resources they need to fully participate in their education.

Florida Tech PAWS offers a wide range of assistive technology services, including:

florida tech paws

Empowering students with disabilities through assistive technology.

• Assistive technology services
• Disability support services
• Accessible learning materials
• Adaptive software and hardware
• Training and technical support
• Accommodations for exams and assignments
• Advocacy and support
• Collaboration with faculty and staff
• Promoting inclusive learning environments
• Enhancing student success

Florida Tech PAWS is committed to providing a supportive and accessible learning environment for all students with disabilities.

Assistive technology services

Florida Tech PAWS offers a wide range of assistive technology services to students with disabilities, including:

• Screen readers:
  

  Software that reads aloud the text on a computer screen, allowing students with visual impairments to access digital content.

• Speech-to-text software:
  

  Software that converts spoken words into text, allowing students with speech or physical disabilities to communicate more easily.

• Text-to-speech software:
  

  Software that converts text into spoken words, allowing students with dyslexia or other reading difficulties to access written material more easily.

• Adaptive keyboards and mice:
  

  Keyboards and mice that are designed for students with physical disabilities, making it easier for them to interact with computers.

These are just a few examples of the assistive technology services that Florida Tech PAWS offers. We work closely with students to assess their individual needs and provide them with the tools and support they need to succeed in their studies.

Disability support services

In addition to assistive technology services, Florida Tech PAWS also offers a range of disability support services, including:

• Academic accommodations:
  

  Students with disabilities may be eligible for academic accommodations, such as extended time on exams, note-taking assistance, or alternative testing formats.

• Disability counseling:
  

  Students with disabilities can receive counseling and support from trained professionals who understand the challenges they face.

• Peer mentoring:
  

  Students with disabilities can connect with peer mentors who have similar disabilities and can provide support and guidance.

• Advocacy:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS advocates for the rights of students with disabilities and works to ensure that they have equal access to all aspects of university life.

These are just a few examples of the disability support services that Florida Tech PAWS offers. We are committed to providing students with disabilities with the resources and support they need to succeed in their studies.

Accessible learning materials

Florida Tech PAWS works to ensure that all course materials are accessible to students with disabilities. This includes:

• Providing accessible course materials:
  

  Instructors are encouraged to provide course materials in accessible formats, such as electronic text, audio, or video. Florida Tech PAWS can also convert materials into accessible formats upon request.

• Captioning multimedia content:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS provides captioning services for multimedia content, such as videos and podcasts. This makes it easier for students with hearing impairments to access this content.

• Providing alternative textbooks:
  

  For students with print disabilities, Florida Tech PAWS can provide alternative textbooks in accessible formats, such as e-text, audio, or Braille.

• Working with publishers:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS works with publishers to ensure that course materials are available in accessible formats. We also advocate for the creation of more accessible educational materials.

By providing accessible learning materials, Florida Tech PAWS helps to ensure that all students have equal access to the same educational opportunities.

Adaptive software and hardware

Florida Tech PAWS provides students with disabilities with adaptive software and hardware to help them succeed in their studies. This includes:

Screen readers: Screen readers are software programs that read aloud the text on a computer screen. This allows students with visual impairments to access digital content independently. Florida Tech PAWS provides a variety of screen readers, including JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver.

Speech-to-text software: Speech-to-text software converts spoken words into text. This allows students with speech or physical disabilities to communicate more easily. Florida Tech PAWS provides a variety of speech-to-text software, including Dragon NaturallySpeaking and Windows Speech Recognition.

Text-to-speech software: Text-to-speech software converts text into spoken words. This allows students with dyslexia or other reading difficulties to access written material more easily. Florida Tech PAWS provides a variety of text-to-speech software, including Natural Reader and Read & Write.

Adaptive keyboards and mice: Adaptive keyboards and mice are designed for students with physical disabilities. They can make it easier for students to type, click, and navigate a computer. Florida Tech PAWS provides a variety of adaptive keyboards and mice, including ergonomic keyboards, trackballs, and sip-and-puff devices.

Florida Tech PAWS also provides training and support on how to use adaptive software and hardware. We work closely with students to assess their individual needs and provide them with the tools and support they need to succeed.

By providing adaptive software and hardware, Florida Tech PAWS helps to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to all aspects of university life.

Training and technical support

Florida Tech PAWS provides training and technical support to students, faculty, and staff on a variety of topics, including:

• Using assistive technology:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS offers training on how to use assistive technology, such as screen readers, speech-to-text software, and adaptive keyboards and mice.

• Accessible course design:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS provides training for faculty and staff on how to design courses that are accessible to students with disabilities. This includes providing accessible course materials, captioning multimedia content, and offering alternative assignments for students with disabilities.

• Disability etiquette:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS provides training on disability etiquette for faculty, staff, and students. This training covers topics such as how to interact with people with disabilities, how to avoid using offensive language, and how to create an inclusive environment.

• Universal design for learning:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS provides training on universal design for learning (UDL). UDL is a framework for creating learning environments that are accessible to all students, regardless of their abilities. UDL principles can be applied to course design, instructional materials, and assessments.

Florida Tech PAWS also provides technical support to students, faculty, and staff who are using assistive technology. This includes troubleshooting problems with assistive technology, installing software, and providing remote support.

Accommodations for exams and assignments

Florida Tech PAWS works with students with disabilities to provide accommodations for exams and assignments. This may include:

Extended time on exams: Students with disabilities may be eligible for extended time on exams. This allows them to have more time to complete their exams without feeling rushed.

Alternative testing formats: Students with disabilities may be eligible for alternative testing formats. This may include taking exams in a quiet room, using a computer or assistive technology, or having the exam read aloud.

Alternative assignments: Students with disabilities may be eligible for alternative assignments. This may include completing a different type of assignment, such as a project or presentation, instead of a traditional exam.

Note-taking assistance: Students with disabilities may be eligible for note-taking assistance. This may include having a note-taker take notes in class or having access to recordings of lectures.

Florida Tech PAWS works closely with students to determine the accommodations that are most appropriate for their individual needs. We also work with faculty to ensure that accommodations are implemented in a fair and equitable manner.

By providing accommodations for exams and assignments, Florida Tech PAWS helps to ensure that students with disabilities have an equal opportunity to succeed in their studies.

Advocacy and support

Florida Tech PAWS advocates for the rights of students with disabilities and provides support to students, faculty, and staff.

• Advocating for students:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS advocates for students with disabilities to ensure that they have equal access to all aspects of university life. This includes advocating for accommodations, resolving disputes, and promoting inclusive practices.

• Providing support to students:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS provides support to students with disabilities in a variety of ways. This includes providing information and resources, offering counseling and support groups, and connecting students with other students with disabilities.

• Providing support to faculty and staff:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS provides support to faculty and staff who are working with students with disabilities. This includes providing training on disability etiquette and accessible course design, and offering консультация on how to accommodate students with disabilities.

• Promoting inclusive practices:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS promotes inclusive practices throughout the university. This includes working with faculty and staff to create accessible course materials and learning environments, and organizing events and workshops on disability awareness.

By advocating for the rights of students with disabilities and providing support to students, faculty, and staff, Florida Tech PAWS helps to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

Collaboration with faculty and staff

Florida Tech PAWS collaborates with faculty and staff to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to all aspects of university life.

• Providing training and resources:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS provides training and resources to faculty and staff on a variety of topics related to disability. This includes training on disability etiquette, accessible course design, and how to accommodate students with disabilities.

• Working with faculty to develop accessible course materials:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS works with faculty to develop accessible course materials, such as electronic textbooks, captioned videos, and alternative assignments. We also provide guidance on how to make online courses accessible.

• Providing support to faculty and staff who are working with students with disabilities:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS provides support to faculty and staff who are working with students with disabilities. This includes providing консультация on how to accommodate students with disabilities, resolving disputes, and connecting faculty and staff with other resources.

• Promoting inclusive practices:
  

  Florida Tech PAWS promotes inclusive practices throughout the university. This includes working with faculty and staff to create accessible course materials and learning environments, and organizing events and workshops on disability awareness.

By collaborating with faculty and staff, Florida Tech PAWS helps to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students.

uerre inclusive learning environments

Enhancing student success

Florida Tech PAWS is committed to enhancing the success of students with disabilities. This includes:

Providing academic support services: Florida Tech PAWS provides a variety of academic support services to students with disabilities, such as tutoring, note-taking assistance, and assistive technology training. We also work with faculty to ensure that students with disabilities have access to the same learning opportunities as other students.

Promoting self-advocacy: Florida Tech PAWS encourages students with disabilities to self-advocate and take an active role in their education. We provide training and support to help students learn how to communicate their needs to faculty and staff, and how to access the resources and services they need to succeed.

Creating a supportive campus climate: Florida Tech PAWS works to create a supportive campus climate for students with disabilities. This includes raising awareness of disability issues, promoting inclusive practices, and providing opportunities for students with disabilities to connect with each other and with the broader university community.

Tracking student outcomes: Florida Tech PAWS tracks the outcomes of students with disabilities to ensure that they are making progress towards their academic goals. We use this data to identify areas where we can improve our services and to advocate for better policies and practices.

By enhancing the success of students with disabilities, Florida Tech PAWS helps to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all.

If you are a student with a disability and you are interested in learning more about Florida Tech PAWS, please visit our website or contact us at [email protected]

FAQ

Do you have any questions about Florida Tech PAWS? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers:

Question 1: What is Florida Tech PAWS?
Answer 1: Florida Tech PAWS is a comprehensive program that provides assistive technology, disability support services, and academic accommodations to students with disabilities.

Question 2: Who is eligible for Florida Tech PAWS services?
Answer 2: Any student with a documented disability is eligible for Florida Tech PAWS services. This includes students with physical, learning, sensory, or mental health disabilities.

Question 3: What types of services does Florida Tech PAWS offer?
Answer 3: Florida Tech PAWS offers a wide range of services, including:

• Assistive technology services (such as screen readers, speech-to-text software, and adaptive keyboards)
• Disability support services (such as academic accommodations, disability counseling, and peer mentoring)
• Accessible learning materials (such as electronic textbooks, audio and video recordings of lectures, and transcripts)
• Advocacy and support (such as advocating for students' rights and providing support to students, faculty, and staff)

Question 4: How do I apply for Florida Tech PAWS services?
Answer 4: To apply for Florida Tech PAWS services, you can:

• Visit the Florida Tech PAWS website
• Contact the Florida Tech PAWS office at [email protected]
• Schedule an appointment with a Disability Services Specialist

Question 5: Is there a cost for Florida Tech PAWS services?
Answer 5: Most Florida Tech PAWS services are provided free of charge. However, some services, such as assistive technology devices, may require a fee.

Question 6: How can I get involved with Florida Tech PAWS?
Answer 6: There are many ways to get involved with Florida Tech PAWS, including:

• Becoming a peer mentor
• Joining the Florida Tech PAWS Student Advisory Board
• Participating in Florida Tech PAWS events and workshops
• Donating to Florida Tech PAWS

If you have any other questions about Florida Tech PAWS, please visit our website or contact us at [email protected]

We hope this FAQ has been helpful. For more information about Florida Tech PAWS, please visit our website or contact us.

Tips

Here are a few tips for students with disabilities who are attending Florida Tech:

Tip 1: Get involved with Florida Tech PAWS.
Florida Tech PAWS is a great resource for students with disabilities. They can provide you with the support and services you need to succeed in your studies.

Tip 2: Be proactive in communicating your needs.
Don't be afraid to reach out to your professors, classmates, and the Florida Tech PAWS staff to let them know about your disability and how it may impact your studies. The more people who know about your needs, the better equipped they will be to help you.

Tip 3: Take advantage of available resources.
Florida Tech offers a variety of resources and services to students with disabilities, such as assistive technology, accessible learning materials, and academic accommodations. Be sure to take advantage of these resources to help you succeed in your studies.

Tip 4: Get involved in campus life.
There are many ways to get involved in campus life at Florida Tech. Joining clubs and organizations is a great way to meet new people, make friends, and get involved in activities that you enjoy. Florida Tech also offers a variety of events and workshops that are open to all students, including students with disabilities.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your experience at Florida Tech and achieve your academic goals.

We hope these tips have been helpful. For more information about Florida Tech PAWS, please visit our website or contact us.

Conclusion

Florida Tech is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all students, including students with disabilities. Florida Tech PAWS is a comprehensive program that provides a wide range of services and support to students with disabilities, including assistive technology, disability support services, accessible learning materials, and advocacy and support.

We encourage all students with disabilities to take advantage of the services and support that Florida Tech PAWS offers. With the right support, students with disabilities can succeed in college and achieve their academic goals.

If you are a student with a disability and you are interested in learning more about Florida Tech PAWS, please visit our website or contact us at [email protected]