Student Handbook

Accommodations and Services for Students with Disabilities

Academic Accommodations: Computer-Assisted Real Time Translation (CART)

Depending on the nature of a student’s hearing disability, the CSD may provide Computer Assisted Real-Time Translation (CART). CART is the instant translation of the spoken word into English text performed by a CART reporter using a stenotype machine, notebook computer, and real-time software. The text is then displayed on the computer monitor for the student to read. This accommodation provides on-the-spot communication access to information as it is being given.

CART may be provided for classroom lectures, fieldwork, meetings with faculty members, and for any activity directly related for a student’s academic program. Students requesting this accommodation must contact Jennifer H. Lucia, Associate Director, as soon as possible to discuss the accommodation. Students are requested to submit current documentation consistent with the CSD’s documentation guidelines for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, which are available online. Once documentation is provided, the CSD will review the information in consultation with the University’s Speech and Hearing Clinic in order to determine reasonable and appropriate accommodations.

If CART is deemed appropriate, the CSD will make arrangements for the accommodation by hiring qualified CART reporters. Students will receive a copy of a ‘rough edit’ transcript after each class in a timely manner to be determined by the student and CART reporter. Written notes may alternatively be provided by a qualified notetaker. Students are requested to notify the CSD and/or CART reporter if he or she is unable to attend class so that the CART reporter can be canceled for the day. Students are also responsible for notifying the CSD if CART arrangements are not suitable or to discuss any other concerns.