ACCD News & Events

SAC Disabled Students Learn to Use Computers by Voice

For Immediate Release
August 22, 2005
Contact: John Hammond, Director of Public Relations, San Antonio College
210/733-2147
jhammond@accd.edu

Seven San Antonio College students with disabilities recently completed training with voice recognition software, which makes it possible for them, some for the first time, to use word processing, surf the Internet, and carry out many other computer operations by using only their voice.

The Dragon Naturally Speaking (DNS) software was purchased with a $218,404 Computer Accommodation for Texans with Disabilities grant from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Link to Hi-resolution Picture

Among the students who participated in the training, one is a quadriplegic and all have problems with physical movement, dyslexia, or other issues that interfere with their learning.

For example, Tony Guerrero said his vision impairment makes it difficult for him to type at a keyboard, but DNS software allowed him to produce a major paper for his British Literature class, and he received a "B".

"It takes dedication to do this, instructor Robert Carter told the students at a reception in their honor at the disABILITIES Support Services (dSS) office, where they completed the seven-week training.

"Some students here for the first time could put their own thoughts on a page," Carter said, noting that some people can type at more than 170 words per minute with the software.

Maria Gomez, dSS coordinator, said plans are underway to offer an orientation class next summer where students can learn the software and also earn college credit. She said the office serves about 1,500 disabled students throughout the year, with a goal of making the college academically and physically accessible to students with disabilities.

"We have one of the finest assistive computer technology laboratories in South Texas," said Regina Pino, assistant to the coordinator.

The lab offers assistance with admission and registration, counseling, orientation classes, note-taking services, alternative formats for instructional materials, assessment, help completing financial aid applications, a computer lab, and equipment such as a Braille embosser, high-speed scanners, and talking calculators, among other services.

Pino said the DNS software helps students improve their independence, learning and communication capabilities. She said, "They are now able to produce written documents and navigate the computer hands-free, a giant step that opens up new worlds and opportunities in life."

For more information about disABILITIES Support Services at San Antonio College, call 733-2347, or go to their website at http://www.accd.edu/sac/students/dss.htm.