Clear communication is essential for delivering services and conducting business at the University. Some individuals with disabilities may use different methods to communicate, and it's our responsibility to ensure that communication is accessible to everyone.
Because each interaction is unique, the best way to communicate may vary depending on the situation. The University is committed to finding effective solutions that meet the communication needs of our community.
For People Who Are Blind, Have Low Vision, or Are Deaf-Blind: Examples may include information in accessible formats—large print, Braille, audio, electronic text, or with a qualified reader. A qualified reader reads clearly, accurately, and objectively, using any needed technical terms.
For People Who Are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Deaf-Blind: Examples may include a qualified sign language, oral, cued-speech, or tactile interpreter; real-time captioning; written materials; or scripts of spoken content. A qualified interpreter conveys information both accurately and impartially, using appropriate vocabulary.
For People with Speech Disabilities: Examples may include a qualified speech-to-speech transliterator, communication devices, or simply allowing extra time. Paper and pencil can be useful for clarification. Always listen patiently and don’t hesitate to ask for repetition if needed.
Further information about some auxiliary aides and services are below:
Hearing Loops
Hearing loops send sound directly from an audio source into a listener’s telecoil (T-coil) enabled receiver, hearing aid, or cochlear implant, improving clarity and understanding.
Hearing loop is available in a number of classrooms and other venues across Grounds. Rooms equipped with loop technology are listed below and will be identified by the universal symbol for hearing assistance with a "T" in the bottom right corner. We have additional information available regarding Hearing Loops on-Grounds, which you can view on our hearing loop pages.
More information on Hearing Loops:
- Loop UVA
- Hearing Loop On Grounds
- Maintenance Guidelines
- Hearing Loop Installation Criteria
- Hearing Loop Resources
Captions and Transcription
Captioning transforms audio into text displayed on a screen, creating a time-synchronized file that mirrors audio elements, identifies the speakers, and informs of all essential sound effects in multimedia recordings. Captioning can be added to a pre-recorded video or added to live videos in real time.
Real-time captioning (also known as computer-assisted real-time transcription, or CART) is a service similar to court reporting in which a transcriber types what is being said at a meeting or event into a computer that projects the words onto a screen. This service, which can be provided on-site or remotely, is particularly useful for people who are deaf or have hearing loss but do not use sign language. Visit the UVA’s Captioning and Transcription page for additional information on Captioning. Visit UVA's Academic Captioning Project to learn more about the centrally funded effort to encourage the provision of accurate captions and transcripts for recorded academic course content.
Transcripts are accurate written versions of spoken content, usually not synchronized with multimedia. They are usually placed close to the multimedia for easy access and may include interactive elements. (I.e., audio-only files like podcasts).
Sign Language Interpreting
A qualified interpreter for the D/deaf or hard of hearing is a service provider who facilitates effective communication between D/deaf and hearing individuals, has demonstrated proficient ethical and interpreting skills, and has gained the knowledge and expertise required to function in a professional capacity. Please visit the SDAC website on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services for more information about this service.
Video Relay Service
Video relay service (VRS) is a free, subscriber-based service for people who use sign language and have videophones, smart phones, or computers with video communication capabilities. For outgoing calls, the subscriber contacts the VRS interpreter, who places the call and serves as an intermediary between the subscriber and a person who uses a standard voice telephone. The interpreter tells the telephone user what the subscriber is signing and signs to the subscriber what the telephone user is saying.
Video Remote Interpreting
Video remote interpreting (VRI) is a fee-based service that uses video conferencing technology to access an off-site interpreter to provide real-time sign language or oral interpreting services for conversations between hearing people and people who are deaf or have hearing loss. The new regulations give covered entities the choice of using VRI or on-site interpreters in situations where either would be effective. VRI can be especially useful in rural areas where on-site interpreters may be difficult to obtain. Additionally, there may be some cost advantages in using VRI in certain circumstances. However, VRI will not be effective in all circumstances. For example, it will not be effective if the person who needs the interpreter has difficulty seeing the screen (either because of vision loss or because he or she cannot be properly positioned to see the screen, because of an injury or other condition). In these circumstances, an on-site interpreter may be required.