Skip to Navigation
I have had to struggle to overcome feelings of inadequacy and hyper-vigilance in an effort to be the best student I can be.
-Veteran, Samaritan Scholar

Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is a broadly defined term that describes innovative tools dramatically improving the lives of people with disabilities.

MSU Computer Requirement 

The MSU computer requirement states that all undergraduate students are required to have a computer that can connect to the internet using a high speed connection. The RCPD has identified this requirement as a useful tool in helping students access technology that can make a difference in their education. Years of experience with the requirement and available tools underscores the importance of considering portable computers. Laptop computers are ideally suited to the mobility needs of RCPDS students.

A common misconception is that students with visual impairments must have a desktop computer because of its large monitor option. However, a laptop computer can be connected to a large monitor. This allows students to enjoy the portability of a laptop and the enhanced visibility of a large monitor.

We encourage students to have a laptop/notebook computer because of its versatility. Those selecting laptops should recognize the RCPD Assistive Technology Center as an ideal place to optimize the configuration of assistive technology. Laptop portability allows students to bring their computers to the RCPD for consultations and training in the latest technologies. It is our hope that students will take this information into consideration when fulfilling MSU's computer requirement. 

About the Assistive Technology Center

The Assistive Technology Center (ATC), located within the RCPD, is available to MSU students and employees with disabilities. The RCPD Assistive Technology Center is a state of the art facility containing several workstations offering the latest in voice and Braille output, screen enlargement, voice input, and OCR reading equipment. Additionally, each has word processing, Web browsing, and email capabilities. Some of the computers can scan documents and then read them aloud to the user. The center serves as a location where individuals may use needed adaptive equipment but moreover a place where they may learn to both identify effective adaptive solutions and learn to fully utilize the new tools.

Assistive Technology Team

Assistive Technology Team

The RCPD Assistive Technology Team includes, (from left to right): Tom Hwang, Miles Rowe-Love, Al Puzzoli, Matt Carbary and Stephen Blosser.

Assistive Technology Center Hours

During the Fall and Spring semesters, RCPD is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sunday, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Summer office hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.


Equipment Available at the RCPD Assistive Technology Center

The RCPD maintains state of the art assistive technology to empower our students and employees. Plan to visit us and experience some of these high tech tools for success.

The following is available at the RCPD Assistive Technology Center. Training manuals, tutorials and personalized assistance is also available. Stop in any time or call to make an appointment.


Additional Assistive Technology Resources Available at MSU

  • Library-The MSU Main Library also provides assistive technology including some equipment with the same capabilities as the RCPD Assistive Technology Center. For more information go to Accessible Library Services.
  • MSU Computer Labs-Computersmaintained by ATS in public computer labs on campus have Kurzweil 3000, Zoomtext screen magnifier and JAWS screen reader available. These programs can be launched through the start menu / utilities. Check the list of computer labs with assistive technology to learn hours and locations.
  • AFS space-This is a place to store documents on MSU computers. Go to the ATS Help Desk website to find out how to use your AFS space.

How to access assistive technology on MSU microlab computers

Assistive Techology in Action

Contact Information

Stephen Blosser

Stephen Blosser

Assistive Technology Specialist
(517) 884-1914

Additional Resources


RCPD at MSU © 2012
Web Accessibility
Level Double-A conformance icon, W3C-WAI Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 1.0