Adaptive Services Specialist

Gavilan College•Spokane, WA

39d

About The Position

Under general supervision, to assist Accessible Education Center (AEC) students and faculty in utilizing adaptive/assistive technology, services and materials to assist students with sensory, physical, learning and other disabilities; to coordinate with AEC instructors and Information Technology on implementation and maintenance of adaptive technology; and to perform related duties as assigned. Distinguishing Characteristics This classification functions under the auspices of the AEC department but requires knowledge and skill in the areas of both information technology and equipment, and the special needs, requirements and services utilized by individuals with disabilities. Positions in this class work closely with instructors, Information Technology, and AEC to coordinate and provide assistive and adaptive equipment and services for students. Ideal Candidate: An ideal candidate for the Adaptive Services Specialist position is a knowledgeable professional skilled in both adaptive/assistive technology and the specific needs of students with sensory, physical, learning, and other disability types. This individual must be adept at setting up, troubleshooting, providing training, and student support on a wide array of adaptive equipment, hardware, and software, including speech recognition, screen enlargement, and scan-and-read programs. A successful candidate will be highly effective at collaborating with faculty and the Accessible Education Center (AEC) instructors to identify suitable resources and provide input to Individual Educational Programs, while also serving as a crucial liaison with the Information Technology division for maintaining and troubleshooting adaptive technology and network functions within the AEC High Tech Center. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with students and staff are essential.

Requirements

Limitations imposed by various sensory, physical, learning and other disabilities.
Capabilities and use of adaptive and assistive equipment, hardware and software.
Basic installation, maintenance and troubleshooting of network, operating and application hardware and software.
Techniques for working with and accommodating individuals with disabilities.
College level mathematics and English grammar, spelling and punctuation.
Methods of tutoring and providing instructional assistance.
American Sign Language
Setting up, troubleshooting, using and providing training in adaptive/assistive equipment, hardware and software, including multi-media applications.
Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work, including instructional staff and students with disabilities.
Tutoring students with disabilities in college level academic subjects.
Researching and evaluating assistive software, tools and equipment.
Preparing clear and concise written materials, records and files.
Must possess a valid California driver's license and have a satisfactory driving record; specified positions must be certified in American Sign Language interpretation.
An Associate of Arts degree in computer science, special education, or a closely related field, and previous experience working in either adaptive information technology applications, or disability accommodation services
Vision to read computer screens, text and other materials; color vision to differentiate wiring and interpret diagrams to visually impaired students; speech and hearing to hear and translate lectures and other information, and regular communication; manual dexterity to operate a variety of tools, equipment and computers; physical strength and mobility to assist disabled students with mobility and install and arrange furniture and equipment.

Responsibilities

Provides tutoring to students with sensory, physical and other disabilities
Assists faculty and program staff in identifying suitable equipment, technology, software, services, and materials for use by specific students, and in the AEC High Tech Center (HTC), and provides input to Individual Educational Programs
Recruits, evaluates, selects and trains student assistants and others providing American sign language, note taking and other direct student services
Provides American Sign Language interpreter services
Assists instructor with training of students on assistive devices, other equipment, and software including speech recognition, screen enlargement, and scan and read programs; provides assistance to instructors in classrooms, and with grading of papers and other support
With assistance of the Information Technology division, maintains and troubleshoots network functions for HTC and AEC staff computers; loads operating systems and computer software on computers; maintains and troubleshoots computers; provides liaison with the IT division regarding adaptive/assistive information technology
Scans and formats text for blind students, transposes to Braille using software, and prints Braille on embosser; transcribes papers
Coordinates on-campus transportation for AEC students, scheduling, and maintenance of equipment
Provides direct services to students such as American sign language interpretation, reading tests, transcribing papers, mobility assistance, etc.
Researches software and obtains pricing information on equipment purchases
Researches and prepares brochures and related materials regarding specific disabilities
Moves and arranges furniture and computer equipment in the HTC
Evaluates and recommends modification of assistive devices for specific student needs
Orders and maintains inventory of materials and supplies
Prepares and maintains a variety of records, correspondence and other written materials.