Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• General Questions
• Assistive Technology
• Accessible Text
• Universal Design
• Web Accessibility

General Questions

Q: As an employee, how can I receive ATI services?

A: You will need to contact Ruth Townsend, ADA Coordinator, for a meeting to discuss your needs. She will refer you to the ATI if assistive technology services are needed. She can be reached at 703-993-8730. For more information about the process, please visit: Disabilities Accommodations

Q: As a student, how can I receive ATI services?

A: You need to be registered with the Office of Disability Services (ODS) to receive ATI services. Please speak with ODS to activate the referral process. To make an appointment, call 703-993-2474.

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Assistive Technology

Q: Are there any assistive technology stations on campus that I can use?

A: Yes, they are currently located in the libraries on most campuses. Assistive Technology Lab Locations

Q: How do I gain access to the Assistive Technology available on the Fairfax, Arlington and Prince William campuses?

A: We are working diligently to provide assistive technology software in all of the academic labs on campus. Assistive Technology Lab Locations

You should request access to the AT stations at the Library Circulation Desk. If you would like a code to access the AT room located in the Johnson Center Library, please contact the ATI.

Q: If I need a piece of assistive technology in a classroom or lab, can this be arranged?

A: Yes, ODS and ATI staff will work with you to identify assistive technology that will meet your needs in the classroom and other academic environments. Contact ODS to begin the process.

Q: How can I arrange to use a computer with a screen reading package, screen enlargement package or other assistive technology tools to take quizzes, tests and exams?

A: Once you are registered with ODS, they will work with you and the ATI to identify and provide appropriate technology to use during testing.

Q: Our office uses a lot of technology. How can I learn about technology accessibility for employees?

A: The webpage that answers this question is currently under construction. We are sorry for the inconvenience. Please check back soon!

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Accessible Text

Q: Do I have to pay to have my material converted into an accessible format?

A: No, students and employees found eligible for scanning services are provided the service free of charge. Eligibility is determined by the ODS if you are a student and the ADA Coordinator if you are an employee.

Q: Do I have to purchase my own copy of the required course materials that I need converted into an accessible format?

A: Yes, you must purchase the hard copy of your material that you need converted into an alternative format. Additionally, you also need to provide us with a receipt for the purchase of the material. This is required by publishers in accordance with the Chafee Act. For more information about the Chafee Act, visit: Copyright

Q: Do I have to show receipt for the material I need converted into an alternative format?

A: Yes, most publishing companies require that we provide proof of purchase before they provide material in an electronic format. In addition, Mason needs proof of purchase before scanning material in accordance with the Chafee Act. For more information about the Chafee Act, visit: Copyright

Q: What will happen to the hard copy of my book during the scanning process?

A: To scan printed material into an electronic format, we need to remove the binding from your book. Once the book has been successfully converted, we will have a plastic comb binding put on the book.

Q: What types of material can I have converted into an accessible format?

A: Accessible Text will only convert required course material into an alternative format. This includes text books, reading packets, e-reserve material, texts, exams, quizzes, etc. Due to the high demand for scanning services, we are not able to scan materials that are determined to be recommended as specified on the course syllabus.

Q: Do I have to register with ATI before I can request my material in an accessible format?

A: Yes, you must qualify for services and be registered with the ATI before we can provide you with material in an alternative format. Once you are registered with ODS, you may inquire about the ATI referral process. For an appointment at ODS, please call 703-993-2474. (Employees should contact the ADA Coordinator at 703-993-8730.)

Q: Are plastic comb bindings the only type of binding that can be put on my book after Accessible Text is finished converting it?

A: Yes, currently we are limited to plastic comb bindings. You have the option of receiving the book back without a replacement binding, which will allow you to choose a different type of binding. Kinko’s offers several different types of binding at a cost to you. They are located in the University Mall Shopping Center (on Braddock Road, across from the Fairfax campus). Their phone number is 703-691-9011.

Q: Where, on campus, can I access assistive technology software to read my accessible material?

A: We are working diligently to provide assistive technology software in all of the academic labs on campus. For a listing of technology and locations available visit: Assistive Technology Lab Locations

Q: What accessible text formats can be provided to me?

A: Accessible Text can provide textbooks and course packets in the following formats: WYNN Wizard, MS-Word, plain text, and PDF. In addition to the formats listed above, quizzes and exams and other small documents can also be provided in large print or Braille with prior arrangements.

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Universal Design

Q: Can technology aid participation in hands-on activities in the classroom?

A: We are currently working on posting this information on this web site. You may contact the ATI at 703-993-4329 for assistance.

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Web Accessibility

Q: How can I learn about making web pages accessible to people with disabilities?

A: There are several workshops through Mason available to staff and students. For upcoming workshops, please visit IT Training. Specific workshops can be designed based upon need, level and department by contacting the ATI Office. Visit the Accessibility Training page for more information.

There is also a graduate level class offered through the College of Education and Human Development. (EDIT 526 Web Accessibility)

Q: How can I tell if something I want to purchase falls under the Electronic and Information Technology definition used to define the Section 508 Accessibility Standards?

A: There is documentation available to help answer those questions by contacting the ATI office. Visit the Procurement page for more information about Information Technology or Project Management Information.

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