This page summarises the support, services, and software available for our students who are blind, visually impaired, dyslexic, have difficulty with reading, or who want to make use of accessible options.
Software
Specific assistive technology software is available on open access Windows computers:
- Texthelp Read and Write - screen reading and other tools
- Inspiration 9 - mind mapping software for better organisation of your thoughts
In Moodle and on this Help site you can also use a file converter:
- SensusAccess - upload a file, input a URL, or copy and paste your text into SensusAccess to convert it to a Word document, braille, MP3 or ebook. The service is linked to your University email address.
Built-in accessibility options
Most operating systems come with a range of accessibility features that can be used to set up and customise accessibility settings and programs:
PCs have the ‘Ease of Access Centre’
Apple Macs have ‘Accessibility’.
Mobile devices (phones, tablets etc) usually have accessibility options e.g. Android accessibility overview and iOS accessibility overview
The Assistive Technology team offer training and support on the software listed above. Please contact ITskills@chi.ac.uk for more information.
Assistive technology inductions
Bespoke assistive technology inductions are available to all students and staff. These free sessions provide an overview of all software, hardware, and facilities available at the University and can be tailored to your requirements.
Please contact SIZ or email ITskills@chi.ac.uk to book.
Support and services
The following are available to students:
- Help guides to assistive technology
- Study skills
- IT skills training
- Assisted library service
- Equipment for loan
- Printing services
- Disability, specific learning difficulties and medical conditions support page on the external website
- Overview of the Disability and Dyslexia Service
- Student Support and Wellbeing Moodle page (including Disability and Dyslexia Service)