Enhancing Accessibility: Focus Groups at Syracuse University Libraries
In a proactive step towards enhancing student accessibility, Syracuse University Libraries is inviting students to participate in two focus groups this fall. The goal? To gather valuable feedback on the assistive technology room located in Bird Library. This initiative emphasizes the university’s commitment to inclusivity and aims to improve the user experience for all students, particularly those requiring supportive resources.
Purpose of the Assistive Technology Room
Situated in Room 123 of Bird Library, the assistive technology room is equipped with specialized resources designed to assist students with varying needs. Notable equipment includes advanced screen readers, which make digital content more accessible, and the DaVinci Pro HD/OCR tool, ensuring that printed materials can be converted into formats suitable for diverse learning styles. This room serves as a crucial resource, enabling a seamless educational experience for students who rely on assistive technologies.
Gathering Insights for Improvement
The focus groups are not just about collecting feedback; they represent an opportunity for students to voice their experiences and suggestions. By understanding how the assistive technology room is currently being utilized, the library can identify areas for improvement and potential new uses that align better with student needs. This collaborative approach allows students to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of resources available to them.
Encouraging Broader Awareness
Another significant objective of the focus groups is to increase awareness about the assistive technology room among the student body. Many students may not be fully aware of the resources available to them, and this initiative hopes to shine a light on the technologies that can aid their studies. By engaging more students, the library aims to create a community of users who are not only aware of these resources but are actively utilizing them to enhance their academic pursuits.
Optimizing the User Experience
The insights gathered from these discussions will be instrumental in optimizing the user experience within the assistive technology room. Feedback from students can lead to tangible changes—be it in the available equipment, the room’s layout, or additional training sessions for users. This focus on continuous improvement ensures that the library meets the evolving needs of its users, providing a supportive environment that fosters academic success.
How to Get Involved
Students interested in making their voices heard and contributing to this important dialogue are encouraged to sign up for the focus groups. The deadline to express interest is September 26, providing a timely opportunity for students to step forward and share their thoughts. Engaging in this initiative not only benefits individual users but also contributes to a community-wide effort to create a more accessible educational environment.
By participating, students will be part of a meaningful conversation that can lead to lasting change within the library, ensuring that all resources are used to their fullest potential.