Boise State University: Their Journey to Accessibility and Why They Chose ReadSpeaker

Presented at 11:30am in Colorado G-H on Thursday, November 9, 2023.

#38745

Speaker(s)

  • Paul Stisser, Director, ReadSpeaker
  • Natalie Davidson, Senior Access Coordinator, Assistive Technology, Boise State University

Session Details

  • Length of Session: 1-hr
  • Format: Interactive/Discussion
  • Expertise Level: All Levels
  • Type of session: General Conference

Summary

ReadSpeaker and Boise State University will share why Boise State University selected ReadSpeaker to support their accommodations with the online learning environment and their Canvas LMS. ReadSpeaker will share 3 different options provided from UDL to individualized accommodations in leading LMSs like Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, and BrightSpace by D2L.

Abstract

Since 1993, ReadSpeaker has been providing accessibility tools to address the assistive technology needs of institutions of higher education, publishers, and Fortune 500 Companies.

In working with Boise State University, ReadSpeaker listened to their needs to provide multiple options to support assessments in the LMS and support print accommodations with ePubs, PDF reading, and other file formats dynamically within or outside of the LMS. To support their Testing Center and low bandwidth, our team at ReadSpeaker proposed SpeakUp, an offline reader. That's how versatile our Suite of Learning Tools is!

ReadSpeaker’s Suite of Learning Tools aids in student knowledge retention by using a bimodal presentation. Not only do the products help with students with known disabilities, but also aid students who prefer auditory learning, are distracted learners, prefer not to self-identify; essentially, ALL learners.

Keypoints

  1. Identify pain points in assistive technology within your organization.
  2. Discuss the three options presented by ReadSpeaker.
  3. Relate the pain points to the RS solutions and how they met the needs.

Disability Areas

Cognitive/Learning, Other

Topic Areas

Accessible Course Design, Administrative/Campus Policy, Assistive Technology, EPUB Track, Uncategorized, Universal Design for Learning

Speaker Bio(s)

Paul Stisser

Paul works with ReadSpeaker to enhance the online learning experience with eLearning and LMS integration. Paul has 14 years of secondary education teaching experience, specializing in Special Education, Assistive Technologies, and At-Risk Students.

Natalie Davidson

A passionate professional with expertise in education, counseling, and disability services across the lifespan. Attending Lock Haven University and Masters from Scranton University. Disability and Community Services, and a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. Certification as a Rehabilitation Counselor.A passion for disability studies, including courses in special education, social work, counseling, and vocational rehabilitation. I have 5 years of hands-on experience working with individuals with disabilities as a Direct Support Professional in group homes, day programs, and in the community.