My introduction to "computer assisted software" began in 1982 in the School Improvement Program of Santa Rosa High School. The Apple Company was giving computers to K-12 schools and I was hired to oversee a lab with various computer-assisted instruction programs offered in the school's new computer lab.

When the grant ended in 1986, I began employment at Santa Rosa Junior College for the Disability Resources Department,in the High Tech Center computer lab, designed for students with disabilities. Being part of the High Tech Center computer lab since it's beginning has provided me with many opportunities to work with students with various disabilities, using assistive technology.

I returned to school in 1996, and received a M.A. in Education at Sonoma State University, in Curriculum, Teaching and Learning, with a special emphasis in Learning Disabilities. Designing lesson plans and implementing new strategies for learning is a large part of the training that takes place in the HighTech Center, and I have enjoyed developing computer related curriculum for special needs students.

The assistive technology software and hardware available in the lab and on designated access computers on campus, provide access to computers for people with various disabilities and special needs.

The software programs available in the Assistive Technology Training Center (formerly named the HighTech Center) include: voice activation software, screen reading programs, magnification software, and scan and read software. The lab also has furniture/accessories that provide ergonomic seating and monitor viewing for student use, i.e. adjustable tables, chairs, monitor arms and keyboard trays.

The scan/read program is designed specifically for students with reading comprehension difficulties. It allows the user to scan in text and hear the text read back, while seeing the words highlighted on the screen. Features include a talking dictionary, and word prediction. The screen magnification program provides an easy to read format with font smoothing features for students with low vision, and a screen reading program designed for students who are blind. There are also phonics programs available that complement the phonics classes offered in the department.

The goal of the Assistive Technology Training staff is to empower users to realize their academic and personal goals, using computers to extend their reach on campus and within the community. My role is to facilitate computer usage in a learning environment that provides accessibility to technology, including the software, hardware and ergonomic needs of the user.