FROM THE MAILBAG

I am very concerned with a recent policy development in my Province that has affected my ability to have a proper note taker in class.  Since I have a personal computer at home, I do not qualify to purchase a notebook computer unless I give back my personal computer.  I am not asking for a notebook computer just to have another computer.  It is best suited for my schooling needs, and my personal PC is best suited for all the other needs I have in the home, (which includes scanning my texts), as well as for my community work.

I have both vision and hearing impairments.  I am unable to use any speech based device in class as I would not be able to hear the lecture nor what is going on around me in class and listen to the device at the same time.  My vision is 20/400, and I read large print.  I have never learned Braille, so a Braille note taker for example will be of no use to me.  The sensible alternative would be a notebook computer. 

Instructors could e-mail me notes or present them on disk so I can better follow the lecture during class.  As well, I would be able to access my e-texts which I scan.  I could also connect to the schools library during labs as there is rarely an accessible computer available there.  Many professors use powerpoint, and being unable to see these from a distance I would be able to plug my notebook into the projector and follow along like the rest of the students.  Often there are also "in class" assignments, which I am unable to work on during the class period.  I am restricted to have to go home and mail them back in or bring them back another day. 

Despite the good intentions perhaps of the policy, it distriminates against people with special needs.   I would appreciate help from anyone who could address this issue, or would have any contacts or suggestions.  Please forward these to info@chargesyndrome.ca

CHARGE Syndrome Canada Newsletter Christmas 2005 <back to newsletter>