Assistive technology
To support you in your studies, we have a wide range of assistive technology in computing labs around campus, including: screen reading software, video magnifiers, braille embossers, scanners, daylight lamps, adjustable desks and more.
These technologies can help you reach your full potential, and our Accessibility and Inclusion team are happy to identify the products and services that are best suited to you and give you the training you need to use them. If you think you’d benefit from assistive technology, please get in touch to arrange a needs assessment appointment.
What technology will suit my needs?
As part of the full needs assessment process, the Accessibility and Inclusion Service can assess if you require access to assistive technology (AT) to facilitate successful study, including in exams and class tests.
The assessment process considers what AT training you may require. Training can be provided by the A and I Service and referral to the Training Adviser will be discussed with you during your appointment. These training sessions not only provide you with the knowledge on how to use the functions of the software or equipment but also how to get the most out of them in the context of your university study. The trainer works with you to identify learning outcomes and tangible, practical applications in your study practices.
Trials and free downloads
Microsoft Office 365
The University of Stirling's Microsoft subscription now entitles all Undergraduate and Taught Postgraduate students to free Microsoft Office 365 for the duration of study at Stirling. It includes Outlook; Word; Excel; PowerPoint; OneNote; Access; Publisher; Lync; InfoPath
Sonocent Recorder App
This is a free recording app for use with iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.
With the Sonocent Recorder app you can take an accurate record of a meeting, lecture or class without having to write anything down. Instead of the single stream of information you get with standard audio, Sonocent Recorder allows you to break your recording up into sections and add text and photos or delete as you record. It also allows you to highlight important points, actions or audio to return to later. Download Sonecent via their website.
MindGenius - Mind Mapping Software
MindGenius can be a useful tool for preparing essays, preparing presentations, studying / exam revision and managing tasks. MindGenius allows you to brainstorm and capture ideas, create a visual interpretation of thoughts and structure work. The University of Stirling’s MindGenius subscription now entitles all students to a free download. Further information and download link can be found on the MindGenius website.
MindGenius can be accessed on any student PC on campus:
- Click ‘Start’
- Type MindGenius (all one word) into the ‘Search Programs and Files’ box
- Select MindGenius
Training guides can be found here:
Texthelp Read and Write Gold
This is text to speech software.
Read and Write is a toolbar containing support tools to assist with reading, researching and writing. It is particularly useful for students with dyslexia or concentration difficulties and can be beneficial for people with English as a second language. Text is read aloud from any Word or PDF file as well as any web browser. Read and Write can improve reading comprehension and retention. It is a useful tool to aid proof reading writing.
Read and Write can be accessed on any student PC on campus:
- Click ‘Start’
- Type Texthelp into the ‘Search Programs and Files’ box
- Select Texthelp Read and Write Gold
Further information and a free 30 day trial downloaded can be found on the Texthelp website.
Training guides for Read and Write.
MyStudyBar
MyStudyBar is a toolbar containing a range of support tools, such as:
- Xmind – mind mapping
- Balabolka – text to speech
- ssOverlay – screen tinting
- Lingoes – talking dictionary
You can download and use MyStudyBar straight from a USB stick (if, for example, you are using a machine that is not your own) or you can install it directly to the desktop.
*MyStudyBar is only currently available for Windows.
Further information, download link and training guides can be found at eduapps.org/mystudybar.
Creating accessible documents - SensusAccess
SensusAccess allows staff and students to automatically convert documents into a range of
- audio books (MP3 and DAISY)
- e-books (EPUB, EPUB3 and Mobi)
- digital Braille
The service can also be used to convert inaccessible documents such as image-only PDF files, JPG images and Microsoft PowerPoint presentations into more accessible formats.
Current students can go to the SesusAccess page on Unidesk to create your accessible document.
Assistive technology facilities
Cottrell building 2A81/2A79
These are the more easily accessible of the assistive technology labs, and are the closest to the lecture halls and library. These labs are also used to run exams and class tests for students who require the use of assistive technology during them. Therefore, they may not always be available during the hours of 9am – 6pm, depending on the number of class tests being held.
Pathfoot B8
This small lab has three computers with assistive software, one scanner and a video magnifier and braille embosser for students with a visual impairment. The Pathfoot building is at the entrance to the University, and is approximately 15 minutes’ walk from the main teaching areas on campus, and may not be ideal for students with mobility difficulties.
Other facilities
In addition to the rooms listed above, there are multiple computing labs available for all students to access. Some assistive technologies can be accessed from any computer on campus, however your preferred settings – such as desktop shortcuts – cannot be saved for the next session, and you’ll need to have your own headphones to use screen reading software.
Contact us
For more information about any of these services, and to arrange an appointment with an Accessibility and Inclusion Adviser, please get in touch or drop by the Student Services Hub.