Assistive technology is software, equipment, or tools that help students overcome barriers to learning and take part more easily in university life.
It can help with things like reading, writing, note-taking, organization, communication, and accessing course materials more independently.
You might benefit from assistive technology if you have a disability, learning difference, long-term condition, or injury that makes studying or accessing university facilities, technology, or programs more difficult.
Note Taking
Genio (Web, Mobile)
Accommodation Required
Helps you keep track of important information with lectures recorded in full, playback at your pace, and flexible note types to fit diverse learning needs. Accessible and adaptable for different accommodations.
OneNote (Windows)
Free with UVU Microsoft Account
A multimedia-friendly digital notebook for notes, to-do lists, and easy sharing. Designed to be accessible and easy to use so students and parents can stay organized and collaborate.
Google Keep (iDevices, Android, Chrome)
Free
Capture, edit, and organize notes across devices with labels, colors, reminders, and quick export to Google Docs—helpful for families reviewing work together.
Noteability (iDevices)
Free Version Available
Handwritten and typed notes, audio capture, and PDF annotation with cloud sync. Supports different learning styles and accessibility needs.
OtterAI (Web, Mobile)
Free Version Available
Automatic transcription with searchable notes and speaker labels across devices—useful for reviewing lectures and staying engaged.
Speech-to-Text
Google Docs
Free
Use Voice Typing to dictate and convert speech to text
Microsoft Word
Free
Built-in dictation lets you speak into your document
Dictation (iOS)
Free, Built-in
Speak to text with no time limit, convert memos, and translate
Windows Voice Typing (Windows)
Free, Built-in
Dictate into any app across Windows with multilingual support
Text-to-Speech
Read & Write
Free with UVU Microsoft Account
Read & Write offers read-aloud and literacy tools to support diverse learning needs
Natural Reader
Free Version Available
Free text-to-speech and MP3 conversion
Adobe Acrobat
Free with UVU Microsoft Account
PDFs can be read aloud with customizable voice and reading pace
Learn how to have a PDF Read Aloud
Central Access Reader (CAR)
Free
A text-to-speech reader for complex Word documents, including math and symbols
Balabolka
Free
Free text-to-speech and MP3 conversion
Read Aloud Browser Extension
Free
One-click text-to-speech for any webpage
Spoken Content (iOS)
Free, Built-in
iPhone can speak screen and selected text
Select to Speak (Android)
Free, Built-in
Android text-to-speech for reading aloud
Windows Narrator (Windows)
Free, Built-in
Built-in screen reader for Windows
Study Apps
Khan Academy
Free
Learn almost anything for free.
Quizlet
Free
Create and study with flashcards and practice tests.
EasyBib
Free
Bibliography creation tool for students.
Wolfram Alpha
Free
Compute answers and generate reports across thousands of domains.
Web Browsing Tools
Fulton Library Database
Free
Access Fulton Library databases for research.
Open the Fulton Library Database
Google Scholar
Free
Broadly searches scholarly literature across disciplines and sources.
Go to the Google Scholar Website
iSeek
Free
Analyzes search results to identify themes and guides you to relevant results with iViews.
Students who have been approved for alternative text formats may receive those materials through the ATC. Alternative text can come in the following formats: PDF, Word, ePUB, Print, Enlarged Print, MP3, Braille, and Tactile Graphics. Additional formats may be discussed with the ATC.
In order to get your textbooks and other class readings you must:
Step 1: Meet with an Accessibility Advisor
Make an appointment to meet with an advisor in the Office of Accessibility Services and be approved for an alternative text accommodation.
Step 2: Request Materials in Clockwork
Submit a request for alternative materials in Clockwork. Depending on the accommodation, a member of the ATC team may reach out for further information
Step 3: Textbook Conversion
Textbook conversion typically takes 5 to 10 business days; but, may occasionally take longer for some formats or materials. Students may submit their request before purchasing their textbooks BUT the alternative formats will not be released to a student until they have shown proof of legal access to the materials. Textbooks will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Step 4: Recieve your Materials
All digital formats will be provided through Clockwork. Print materials will be picked-up at the Office of Accessibility Services. An email will be sent out when your material is ready.