A Lending Library of iPads and iPod Touches

The Center for Accessible Technology (CforAT) has developed a lending library of iPads and iPod Touches to use with people who have speech disabilities.

This new project, funded by the California Communications Access Foundation, enables us to loan iPads/iPods loaded with various AAC (Augmentative and Assistive Communication) software, which in effect turns the iPad or iPod Touch into a communication device.

We are very excited about the possibilities of this new initiative. AAC devices are typically very expensive, out of the reach of many consumers, where an iPad or an iPod Touch, along with the required software, is significantly more affordable. We also believe the flesxibility of both the iPad and iPod work well for people who use AAC devices.

An additional part of this project has been offering trainings on the use of the iPad or iPod Touch as a communications device. We do these trainings live at the Ed Roberts Campus, and also offer webinars on the topic.

Upcoming Loan Meetings

We are offering group meetings for people to come in and learn about the project, and, if eligible, get an iPad or iPod to use for two weeks. Our next loan meeting dates will be:

• Thursday, January 5th, from 3:30 - 4:30

• Tuesday, January 24th, from 3:30 - 4:30

If you'd like to come to one of these meetings, you can sign up by calling 510 841-3224 or you can email us to sign up for an upcoming meeting

The project has already loaned out many of the devices, and interest is growing steadily. If you'd like to learn more, or would like to participate in this project, please email us to learn more about the iPad project.

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