Accessible Computing and Information Technology Lab

What is the ACIT Lab?

A TECH-Fee Funded Initiative thanks to a grant from Temple University Computer Services.
A collaborative project of the College of Education, the Institute on Disabilities, and the Communication Disorders Department in the College of Health Professions.
Designed to enhance awareness & knowledge of practical applications of assistive & accessible technologies.

What is Available in the ACIT Lab?

Located in 306 Ritter Hall, this 17-seat computer lab (15 PC and 2 MAC) includes a dedicated projector, podium, and instructor computer with available inputs for VCR/DVD or a laptop. There is also a PC and a MAC laptop available for checkout for use by students or the instructor. There is a dedicated laser printer and scanner in the room.

In addition to the computer lab equipment, ACIT Lab includes a range of assistive and accessible technologies, both hardware and software, that can be used to expore issues of accessibility and usability in design and application.

AT Hardware Available

Input Devices

Big Track Trackball mouse
Roller II Joystick mouse
MyBoard II Big Key Keyboard
Frogpad Right-handed Keyboard
Matias 508 Keyboard
Tash Single Switch Kit
Intellikeys Keyboard
TrackerPro 2000 and WISP2000 (hands-free mouse)

Specialized AT

Clarity PCMate - Portable video magnification designed to help users see the board easier.
Reliant Video Magnifier - read print documents in large print, enlarge or magnify any materials
MicroTek Scanmaker i900 - photo and document scanner with OCR capabilities - turn paper documents into screen-reader friendly documents on demand
RedCat classroom amplification system.
3M Polarizing Task Light - specialized non-glare lighting to enhance classroom lighting as needed
Infinity 6030 Ergonomic Computer Table with powered adjustment - Adjustable height, electronic powered student desks that raise and lower at the touch of a button.

AT Software Available

Jaws, Window-Eyes, Kurzweil 3000, Zoomtext, Intellitools, Boardmaker/OverlayMaker, Magic Cursor, Screen Doors, and SOLO by Don Johnston.

How will the lab be used?

The aim of the ACIT Lab project was to establish a fully accessible computing, instructional, and assistive technology classroom/lab where:

Temple students from a variety of programs and disciplines can gain practical experience and knowledge related to the design and use of these technologies;
Faculty and staff can learn about the scope and benefit of assistive and accessible technologies that can benefit Americans with disabilities, older Americans and other diverse learners and how to incorporate this knowledge in their instruction and research;
Temple can showcase our commitment to technological innovation and access to education for all;
Temple programs and disciplines can engage in community training and outreach, especially opportunities for supporting students and faculty of Philadelphia partnership schools and developing on-going educational programs with regional corporate and government partners.

To schedule your class, staff, or organization visit, contact:

Lori Bailey, Director of Information and Instructional Technology
College of Education, Temple University
308 Ritter Hall
phone: (215) 204-6263
email: lori.bailey@temple.edu