Technology Accommodations in the classroom

For some students it is necessary to use technology in the classroom due to disability. If you have a blanket ban on technology in the classroom, understand that there may be times when technology is necessary. Traditionally speaking, assistive technology is defined as technology (whether low or high tech) that improves the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Now more than ever, assistive technology is becoming ubiquitous.

Examples might include:

• Notetaking technology

• Dictation on your smart phone

• Read aloud options

• Ergonomic mouse

These are all becoming mainstream technology all can benefit from. Regardless, there are certain technologies, such as screen readers, that you may be less familiar with. Some things to consider:

Educational Support Services’ Assistive Technology Center does demonstrations of certain software for Faculty of Arts and Sciences. In addition, the Assistive Technology Library and Loan available to all Harvard community members through University Disability Resources provides access to certain software and hardware.  

Sensus Access  is a tool that can be used by anyone in the Harvard community to convert documents to different formats. For those using Canvas, it is embedded in the platform. Your students can utilize this tool on documents you might post in Canvas directly. 

We recognize the various policies and practices across schools differ so if you are not sure about a particular technology, you can ask for more information from the local disability coordinator.