Scheduled at 11:15 am in Independence on Wednesday, November 19.
#41425Speaker(s)
- Martha Wong, Associate Director, Florida International University
- Ashley Romero, Adaptive Technology Specialist, Florida International University
Session Details
- Length of Session: 1-hr
- Format: Lecture
- Expertise Level: Intermediate
- Type of session: General Conference
Summary
This proposal presents how FIU’s Disability Resource Center uses an accessible database to support and expand the use of assistive technologies that enhance student success. Through real student stories and data-driven strategy, the DRC promotes tools such as SensusAccess, note-taking software, Kurzweil, and JAWS—making digital materials more accessible and learning environments more inclusive. The system enables the DRC to monitor tool usage, identify student needs, and coordinate targeted outreach, training, and support across campus. This presentation highlights how data, storytelling, and adaptive technology work in concert to foster digital accessibility and equity in higher education.
Abstract
Promoting digital accessibility on campus goes beyond compliance—it requires intentional advocacy, effective tools, and real stories that highlight student success. At Florida International University (FIU), the Disability Resource Center (DRC) has implemented a modern database system not only to streamline accommodation services, but also to actively promote the use of assistive technologies (AT) that empower students with disabilities. By sharing real student experiences, the DRC helps the campus community understand how tools like SensusAccess, note-taking software(s), Kurzweil, and JAWS improve academic access, engagement, and independence. These stories make assistive technology more relatable and visible. The database plays a critical role in this work by helping the DRC track usage trends, identify gaps, and guide targeted outreach to connect students with the right tools. This presentation will explore how storytelling, adaptive technology, and accessible system design come together to support student success, data-informed strategy, and digital equity across campus.
Keypoints
- Using storytelling to promote tools such as SensusAccess, note-taking software, Kurzweil, and JAWS to enhance student success
- Using data to streamline accommodation management, monitor assistive technology usage, and drive campus-wide improvements in digital accessibility
- Leveraging data insights to streamline faculty tools to enhance the accessibility of their course content and contribute to a more inclusive digital environment across the university
Disability Areas
All Areas
Topic Areas
Accessibility and Accommodation in the Current Political/Legal Environment, Assistive Technology, Faculty Development & Support, Teaching about Accessibility in Curriculum, Uncategorized
Speaker Bio(s)
Martha Wong
Martha serves as a Higher Education Administrator within the Division of Academic & Student Affairs and as the Associate Director of the FIU Disability Resource Center (DRC). In her role, she oversees strategic and operational functions across the department, including policy development, ADA compliance, budget and finance management, organizational planning, human resources, and conflict resolution. Martha leads her team in collaborating with faculty and administrators to implement academic accommodations and promote campus-wide accessibility. She also provides consultations and leads training on key accessibility topics, including Universal Design and strategies to remove barriers for students with disabilities in higher education. Her commitment to student success extends to sharing her expertise at national conferences, including AHEAD, AHG, and NASPA. At FIU, Martha has contributed to several committees, such as the Emergency Aid Lab Innovation Group and the Student Conduct Committee. She holds a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from FIU (’15) and is an alumna of the Leadership Education Advancement Program (LEAP) and the President’s Leadership Program (PLP). ?
Ashley Romero
Ashley is the Adaptive Technology Specialist at Florida International University’s Disability Resource Center and a graduate student in Computer Science. She focuses on implementing and supporting assistive technologies like JAWS, Kurzweil, and Fusion to improve digital access for students with disabilities. With over four years of experience, she leads all university and departmental training sessions, integrates accessible tools into academic environments, and develops tech-driven solutions that enhance the student experience at FIU. She is passionate about using technology to remove barriers and create more inclusive, user-friendly systems for our diverse population.