Assistive Technology & Notetaking Services

The Accessibility Resources Office (ARO) is committed to promoting equal access and student success through assistive technology and notetaking support services. These resources are designed to help students access course content, engage in the learning process, and develop strategies that foster independence both inside and outside the classroom.

Assistive technology and notetaking accommodations are determined individually through an interactive process between the student and their Accessibility Specialist. Students approved for these accommodations may access a variety of tools and services based on their individual needs.

Notetaking Services

ARO offers several notetaking options that allow students to capture and review course content in ways that align with their learning styles and accommodation needs.

Jamworks

Jamworks is an AI-powered study and notetaking platform designed to help students capture, organize, and review course content more effectively. Students can record lectures, create searchable notes, generate study materials, and access personalized learning tools that support comprehension and retention. Jamworks helps students stay engaged during class while providing resources for effective review and exam preparation.

Messenger Pigeon

Messenger Pigeon allows students to record lectures and add notes after class. This approach enables students to focus on listening and participating during lectures before returning to recordings to create organized notes and study resources.

LiveScribe Smart Pen

The LiveScribe Smart Pen combines handwritten notes with synchronized audio recording. Students can tap on their notes to replay the corresponding portion of the lecture. Smart Pens are available for semester-long loans through ARO.

Peer Notetaking

When appropriate, students may receive notes from a trained peer notetaker. Notes are shared electronically through a confidential process that protects the privacy of both the note recipient and the notetaker.

Assistive Technology Resources

ARO provides access to a variety of assistive technologies and training to help students use these tools effectively in their academic pursuits. The goal is to empower students with skills and strategies that support success in college and beyond.

Accessible Text Materials

Students approved for alternate-format materials may receive accessible digital versions of textbooks and course materials that are compatible with text-to-speech and other accessibility software.

Reading, Writing, and Study Support

Available resources may include:

  • Read&Write literacy support software
  • Speech-to-text and text-to-speech tools
  • Digital study and organization tools
  • Accessible PDF and document conversion support

Technology for Students with Visual Disabilities

Available resources may include:

  • ZoomText magnification and screen-reading software
  • JAWS screen-reading software
  • Optelec video enlarger for printed materials

Technology for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students

Available resources may include:

  • Personal audio amplification systems
  • FM listening systems
  • Captioning and communication support technologies
  • Requesting Services

Students who have been approved for assistive technology, alternate-format materials, or notetaking accommodations may request services through the Accessibility Resources Office. If you believe these resources may support your learning, contact ARO to discuss available options and determine what may be appropriate for your individual needs.

Links to Video Tutorials:

Read & Write for Windows:

Read & Write for Mac: