New Assistive Technology Tryout Center at Castleton University
Castleton University, in partnership with The University of Vermont's Center on Disability and Community Inclusion (CDCI) and the Vermont Assistive Technology Program, is excited to announce that it is developing an Assistive Technology Tryout Center on the Castleton University campus.
Assistive Technology is an umbrella term that includes assistive, adaptive, or rehabilitative devices, software, or equipment that can help individuals with disabilities, as well as students with learning and attention challenges.
Since 1974, University of Vermont's Center on Disability and Community Inclusion has worked to pursue its mission to make sure that all people who experience developmental and other disabilities and their families are fully-included in their homes, schools, and communities. CDCI coordinates more than 20 projects throughout the state within the community and schools to enhance training, research, and the sharing of information. CDCI houses many projects that affect the lives of Vermonters with disabilities, from training educators and other professionals to providing information and demonstrations about assistive technology.
The Vermont Assistive Technology Program is Vermont's federal AT Act Program. The AT Act Program helps individuals with disabilities of all ages find accessible solutions to overcome barriers at home, work, and in the community. The organization's vision is that each Vermonter will be provided with opportunities for independence and self-determination.
The new AT Tryout Center at Castleton University is located on the first floor of the Stafford Academic Center. The Tryout Center will be staffed by Assistive Technology Outreach Specialist Ben Wimett.
"Students in undergraduate and graduate programs at Castleton University will have direct access to the devices on display in the lab and will see, first hand, how the various devices can assist in providing meaningful access to curriculum, instruction, assessment, and learning environments for students in the local schools," said Director of Education Ric Reardon. "We are able to provide information on AT tools, strategies, and related resources and provide demonstrations, short-term equipment loans, group trainings, and technical assistance around the latest assistive technology to all Vermonters, including individuals with disabilities, caregivers, educators and service providers."