Assistive technology and alternative resource formats
We may be able to offer assistive technology and alternative resource formats to support your study needs.
Assistive technology
Assistive Technology refers to the various software and hardware options that assist in addressing a range of disabilities, such as vision, learning and mobility.
Hardware may also be available and would be discussed as part of your Study Support Plan.
The following are some of the assistive technologies available:
Software
Read&Write
Literacy support tool available to all students, staff and faculty at The University of Waikato.
Microsoft Accessibility Tools
Microsoft offers a range of built-in accessibility features in Windows and Office, such as Narrator (screen reader), Magnifier, and speech recognition.
Google Accessibility Tools
Google provides various free tools like ChromeVox (screen reader for Chrome), Voice Access (voice control for Android), and Live Transcribe (real-time speech-to-text).
NaturalReader
A free text-to-speech software that can read aloud documents, PDFs, and web pages.
NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)
A free screen reader for Windows that provides feedback via synthetic speech and Braille.
Goblin Tools
A free website and app with a range of AI-powered tools to help break down complex tasks. Created with neurodivergent people in mind.
Hardware
Hardware is available for loan, e.g. C-Pen, Braille keyboards.
Contact Accessibility Services for more info.
Alternative resource formats
Students with a range of conditions may require printed material in alternative formats. This includes large print, different coloured paper, braille, audio, or electronic formats.
Students who need alternative format literature are encouraged to contact Accessibility Services to find a workable solution for accessing course literature.
For students with low vision or who are blind, please check out the resources and support available at Blind Low Vision NZ.