The Access Centre

Services for Students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Sign Language Interpreter Request Form

Computerized Note-Taker Request Form

To Register for Services

• Sign Language Interpreters and Computerized Note-Takers are hired by Ryerson University to support students who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing for classroom requirements. New students who require these services, please make an initial appointment with our Accommodation Advisor six to eight weeks prior to the first day of classes to discuss your accommodation needs. 
• Please provide documentation of your disability when you schedule this appointment. If you require a Sign Language Interpreter for your appointment, please also specify at the time of booking.
  
• To facilitate the provision of qualified and expereinced interpreters and note-takers, we all benefit when provided with as much notice as possible.
  
  

Role of a Sign Language Interpreter

• An interpreter bridges communication when people do not share a common language. A Sign Language Interpreter provides interpretation in both English and American Sign Language (ASL). Sign Language Interpreters are professionals who subscribe to a rigorous ethical code that stresses confidentiality, impartiality and integrity.
  
  

Role of a Computerized Note-Taker

• A Computerized Note-Taker utilizes a computer to take simultaneous notes of all verbal communication in the classroom enabling individuals with hearing loss to understand conversations or group proceedings. Notes from the class are emailed to the student within 48 hours of the class.

Communication Access Real-time Translation (CART)

• Communication Access Real-time Translation (CART), or captioning, is a process whereby a CART provider, using a steno machine, laptop and real-time software, provides instant word-for-word speech-to-text translation for display. In order to facilitate a highly readable English translation, the CART providers possess shorthand speeds of well over 225 words per minute, with a general accuracy level of 99% or greater.