'06-'07 Almost in the Bag!

Almost the end of the traditional academic year, here, with only dead week and finals week to go! It’s a good time to think about what we’ve accomplished this year - or at least what stands out to me at the moment….

Technology - hardware you can kick and software you want to throw

• Began limited production of DAISY format alternate texts
• Produced an astounding 193 alternate format texts, up 169% over last year.
• Hired an awesome AT Lab Guy and two incredible Alt-Text Production Genies! Kevin, Abby, and Mike, thanks for a fantastic year - y’all are the only reason I still have any sanity left. They have made it possible for me to be in two (and sometimes three!) places at the same time, and they’ve been a hoot to work with to boot!
• Stablized platform of AT offered on campus; everything is working the way it’s supposed to. This is a huge improvement.
• Trial run of software loan using Scientific Notebook
• Installed TI-84 emulator software in accommodated testing rooms; worked well for students with low vision
• Researched new innovation after new innovation… you’ll have to wait for the next blog to see what we’re up to next year.
• Installed TTYs and public-access videophone. Huge thanks to Sprint for their donation of said videophone.
• Began actual production of Braille on campus and made Braille embosser available in AT lab for student use

The human factor - communication, infrastructure & training:

• This blog got up and running. Not as frequently as I’d hoped for, but up and going nonetheless!
• Enormous DSS website redeisgn and new content
• Presented “A Foot on Both Platforms: Supporting Students Who Use Macs on a Windows Campus” at Accessing Higher Ground Conference in November ‘06.
• Enjoyed and expanded partnerships with the SOU Bookstore and SOU’s fabulous IT staff
  
• Trained University Seminar faculty, Deans & Department Chairs, and Medford Campus staff in uses of assistive technology
• Taught University Seminar, Tech Writing, and Business of Writing classes how to use Premier Assistive Technology Suite; Tech Writing and Business of Writing classes also included accessible document design
• Began Facebook page (hey, add me as a friend! I like just about everybody!)
• Conducted numerous one-on-one sessions with students learning to use various types of technology