Our Trip to the Assistive Technology Tryout & Access Center at CDCI in Vermont
Last week, some Accessible Web team members visited the Center on Disability & Community Inclusion at the University of Vermont! Our goal at Accessible Web is not only to create accessible websites but to better understand assistive technology available. We wanted to look deeper at what’s available to help people perform regular tasks.
The building at the former Trinity Campus in Burlington, Vermont, houses an Assistive Technology Tryout Center. This center is one of three set up by the Vermont Assistive Technology Program; the other two are located in Waterbury and Rutland.
The program itself gives access to over 2,000 pieces of assistive technology available for loan and demonstration purposes. Becoming a member is free, and once a member, you can also access all this amazing technology.
Leslie Ermolovich, who helps run the center and is an Accessible Technology (AT) Access Specialist, walked us through the space and practical uses of each tool.
Upon entering the room, we saw that Leslie had set it up much like a tiny home. This way, tools can be seen within their intended context. She created an office area, kitchen area, living room, dining area, and spaces for toys and technologies used in outdoor activities.
The Office:
We first stopped at the office area, which contained ZoomText Keyboards, keyboards featuring Keyguards, CapTel Caption Telephones, and several variations of the computer mouse.
The Kitchen:
The kitchen setup featured a number of awesome tools that make cooking less daunting. In Leslie’s kitchen, you’ll find special cutting boards, knives, and electric jar openers. And “Reachers” to help extend one’s “grabbing” range and prevent burns from the stove and oven.
The Living Area:
This station tests out keyboards and switchboards that turn on and off by tapping or a simple touch. Leslie attaches these switches to a number of objects, including computers, televisions, phones, and even toys. These switches prove helpful for those who struggle with motor function issues and may not be able to answer their cell phones or turn on their favorite devices.
The Play Area:
Last but not least are the toys!
Leslie has a large collection spanning from old-school board games to the latest gaming systems and technologies. Many of these items Leslie has adapted herself. Including several she customized with cut pool noodles to provide a larger surface area for gripping, switches plugged into gaming systems, or colored labels on instruments and music books.
Choosing the right piece of accessible technology can be daunting, especially with the time and cost associated with some pieces. In this way, the AT Tryout Center at the CDCI is an invaluable resource for the community.
Those interested can try technology at the center. Bring AT home to test and potentially find a piece of technology that could help enrich their lives. If you’re in the Vermont area and are interested in exploring assistive technology, or know someone who might, please visit the Vermont State Assistive Technology Program website or the University of Vermont CDCI office.
