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Equipment: Assistive Technology

Learn about all the equipment that the JIBC Library has to offer

Introduction

The Assistive Technology collection at the JIBC Library is available to all students enrolled in academic programs, instructors, and staff. If you would like to know more about academic accommodations, please contact the Disability Services Manager at studentresources@jibc.ca.

Assistive Technology

C-PenWhite C-Pen

The C-Pen Exam Reader 2 is a helpful tool designed to make reading easier for students who may have difficulty reading printed text. With this assistive technology device, students can listen to printed text and exam questions being read aloud in real-time, which can be a great support for those with visual impairments, dyslexia and other reading-related learning disabilities, ADHD, cognitive or processing disabilities, or those who prefer auditory learning.

Some of the cool features of the Exam Reader 2 are that it has capability for an auditory menu, it can read text aloud in multiple languages and accents, it doesn't need Wi-Fi, and its rechargeable battery lasts all day. Additionally, the C-Pen has a headphone jack to allow the user to listen privately. The device is also smart enough to recognize different fonts and print styles, making it more accurate in reading. Plus, it has a user-friendly interface with helpful app icons to make navigation easy.

Photo credit: C-Pen (2015). C-Pen Exam Reader 2. cpen.com. Retrieved from https://cpen.com/products/c-pen-exam-2/. 

 


 

Echo 2 SmartpenEcho 2 Smartpen

The Echo 2 smartpen delivers a comprehensive note-taking experience by integrating audio with written content. It has the ability to enhance notes by recording audio alongside written entries. The smartpen facilitates easy recording and instant replay of audio directly from the pen or linked devices. This innovative tool also offers efficient ways to save, organize, and share notes, supporting real-time collaboration on platforms like Zoom or Teams. Additionally, the Echo 2 smartpen includes a transcription feature that converts handwritten notes into digitized text in over 27 languages. Notes can be saved in searchable PDF, SVG vector, TXT and image formats. Its compatibility with the Livescribe+ App ensures a user-friendly experience across Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android platforms. The Echo 2 smartpen has a USB-C charging port. Livescribe smartpaper and utilization of the Livescribe+ App is required for transcription services.

Photo credit: Livescribe (n.d.). Echo 2 Bundles Promo. livescribe.com. Retrieved from https://us.livescribe.com/products/echo2-bundles

 


 

KindleBlack Amazon Kindle with white background

  • Read comfortably with this lightweight, glare-free, paper-like display. The device is backlit so that it can be read easily in different light conditions.
  • The device charges by USB-C, and can last up to 10 weeks on a single charge.
  • The Kindle can read TXT, PDF, DOCX, DOC, HTML, JPEG, as well as other formats
  • Instructions for transferring files (e.g. PDF files) available here.
  • Instructions for setting up a Kindle are available here.
  • Instructions for deregistering a Kindle are available here.

Photo credit: Amazon (2021). Amazon Kindle Paperwhite. Amazon.ca. Retrieved from https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71-4sMyEOSL._AC_SY355_.jpg.

 


 

Magnifiermagnifying

  • 3X pocket magnifier
  • 2-inch by 2-inch (5-centimetre by 5-centimetre) distortion-free hybrid lens
  • Only 0.1 inches (0.25 centimetres) thick
  • LED bulb never needs changing
  • Strong case minimizes lens scratching
  • 2 CR2025 batteries (included) provide approximately 6 hour of operating time

Photo credit: Smartlife (n.d.). Esch 1521-11 Easy Pocket 3X LED Magnifier Silver Case. Cnibsmartlife.ca. Retrieved from https://cnibsmartlife.ca/products/esch-1521-11-easy-pocket-3x-led-magnifier-silver-case.

 


 

Noise Cancelling Earmuffs (Non-Electronic)Black, non-wired, headphones with red lining

These noise-canceling earmuffs are comfortable and can fit many different head sizes. They are great for reducing auditory distractions, which can be very helpful for studying or working in noisy environments.

The earmuffs are lightweight, and made with a steel-wire construction and have soft padding on the headband for a comfortable fit. The cups are made of ABS with foam cushion inserts, which is perfect for people with larger ears.

Photo credit: Honeywell(n.d.). Honeywell Howard Leight VeriShield VS110 Over-the-Head Earmuff (NRR 24). earplugstore.com. Retrieved from https://www.earplugstore.com/howard-leight-verishield-vs110-earmuff.html.

 


 

Noise Cancelling HeadphonesBlack, non-wired, headphones with red lining

These Bluetooth-enabled digital noise-canceling earmuffs are comfortable and can fit many different head sizes. They are great for reducing auditory distractions, which can be very helpful for studying or working in noisy environments.

Users can switch between noise-cancelling mode, which reduces up to 95% of noise, and transparency mode, which allows the user to hear their surroundings.

Photo credit: RUNOLIM (n.d.). RUNOLIM Active Noise Cancelling Headphones. amazon.ca. Retrieved from https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61hJ1tbSV2L._AC_SL1500_.jpg.

 


 

Olympus Digital RecorderAudio recorder with buttons, small screen, and Olympus title

The Olympus digital audio recorder makes recording and listening simple and straightforward. It has two microphones that capture sounds from different directions, making recordings clear and lifelike. The Intelligent Auto Mode adjusts microphone sensitivity for different environments, so no manual adjustments are needed.

The recorder has two modes: 'Simple Mode' with easy-to-read fonts and basic functions, and 'Normal Mode' with all features. It offers ample storage and a direct USB connection for easy transfer to your computer.

The Voice Balancer feature amplifies quieter voices, and noise-cancellation ensures clearer playback. You can also control the playback speed to suit your needs.

Use the Olympus Digital Recorder for interview or podcast-style assignments, to create a voice copy of your class notes, to practice and listen back to your oral presentations… the possibilities are endless!

**Remember, it's essential to get permission from anyone that you’re recording, and always use the recordings responsibly and ethically. The Olympus Digital Recorder from the JIBC Library Loan Bank is not to be used to record lecture material without prior approval by the Disability Services Manager as an approved academic accommodation. If you would like to know more about academic accommodations, please contact the Disability Services Manager at studentresources@jibc.ca.

Photo credit: Olympus (2015). Olympus Digital Voice Recorder WS-853, Black - V415131BU000. Amazon.ca. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.ca/Olympus-Digital-Voice-Recorder-WS-853/dp/B014658DHQ?th=1.

 


 

Time TimerTime timer with red disk

This timer helps individuals manage time by using a disappearing disk to indicate the passage of time. This can help visual learners learn to regulate time by allowing them to see how much time is left. This can be suitable for keeping meetings and appointments on schedule, and it can help reduce stress by showing how much time is left.

The timer can assist in breaking larger stressful projects into smaller manageable segments, which can increase productivity. While the timer is designed for individuals with autism and ADHD, it can be beneficial to everyone that would like a visual tool to help manage time.

Photo credit: Time Timer (n.d.). Time Timer Original 8. Spectrum Educaitonal Supplies. Retrieved from https://spectrumed.ca/en/time-timer-original-8-inch-20-cm-86148.

 


 

White Noise MachineSeven sided white noise machine with buttons (White colour)

The white noise machine is a device that can help you stay focused and be more productive by reducing distractions. It comes with 20 different sounds, including 10 fan sounds and 10 different white noises, so you can choose what works best for you.

You can control the volume precisely with 1dB increments, and the speakers are placed upward, filling the entire room with the soothing sounds. It's a great addition to your study or work area to create a calming and focused atmosphere.

White noise machines work great for students who benefit from background noise in order to better focus, or for students who use white noise to drown out other distractions.

Photo credit: LectroFan (2014). Adaptive Sound Technologies ASM1007 Lectrofan, Fan Sound and White Noise Machine. Amazon.ca. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.ca/Adaptive-Technologies-ASM1007-Lectrofan-Machine/dp/B00E6D6LQY/ref=sr_1_1.