Remote CART and VRIWhat We Learned on the Road to Success

David Schwarte, Dean BrusnighanAssistive Technology SpecialistsPurdue University

Agenda

• Background• Problem-Solving Approach• Remote CART tests• VRI tests• Summary • Next Steps

BACKGROUND

What is Remote CART?

• Communication Access Real-time Translation

What is VRI?

• Video Remote Interpreting

Why Did We Get Involved?

• Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation• Challenges specific to our large campus

Large lecture halls 10-minute passing period Power and networking considerations

Problem-Solving Approach

• Maximize chances for success• Begin with most reliable components• With success, add one new component• Don’t put student success at risk• Contract with provider who can help

REMOTE CART (RC) TESTS

RC Test 1 (Wired with Laptop)

• Hardware change – use a faster laptop• Wired internet connection• Wired microphone• Small class size (about 25)• Alternative Communication Services was

our vendor

RC Test 2 (Wireless with Laptop)

• Introduce wireless internet connection• Larger class size – more wireless users• Used another system’s microphone input

RC Test 3 (Wireless with iPad)

• Introduce iPad – more portable• External mic: Revolabs tabletop wireless

USB• iPad camera connection kit• Small class size (about 25)• Mic was moved to meet speaker needs• Mic still in range at 45 feet

VRI TESTS

VRI Test 1 (Wireless with Laptop)

• Same laptop• Same Revolabs microphone• Logitech webcam to simulate student use• Sought faculty volunteer for classroom test• Small class size (about 25)• Had backup plans if something failed

VRI Test 1 (Results)

• Test was successful• Wireless mic worked great• Webcam had no pauses or smear

VRI Test 2 (Wireless with Laptop)

• Same laptop, wireless mic and webcam• Introduce more wireless users

Class size about 100• Visited room before class to determine

Best placement for microphone Location of power outlets for microphone Best placement of laptop for wireless signal

strength

VRI Test 2 (Results)

• Test was successful• Webcam had no pauses or smear• Wireless mic worked great

Professor roamed Student questions

VRI Test 3 (Wireless with iPad3)

• iPad 3 replaced laptop and webcam• Same wireless mic, same placement• We sat in same location

Wireless signal strength Electrical outlet for mic

VRI Test 3 (Results)

• Test was successful• Interpreter raved about microphone quality

again“I can hear just as awesomely as I did in the

previous two tests.”• Video generally clear, a few

drops/freezes/smearInterpreters perspective: not out of line with typicalWould this hinder learning: discuss with student

before using

Summary

• Accomplished all testing goals• Loaned iPad and wireless mic to student

(Fall 2012)• Student compared standard CART with

remote CART (iPad) Standard: stenographer and equipment can

draw a lot of attention

Summary (2)

• “I enjoy the new remote CART as it is easy for me to bring into class and relatively easy to set up… Additionally, the use of the iPad itself instead of a laptop creates a smaller footprint and can be easier to use in class in conjunction with taking notes, as well as eliminating excess attention drawn to my desk.”

• http://www.itap.purdue.edu/newsroom/news/itap_assisstive_technology.html

Summary (3)

• Our experience with testing helps us problem-solve with student situations

• Success is being able to improve our service to students, not that our service is perfect.

Next Steps

• Improve training for each new user• Meet with Purdue Networking staff• Begin testing with Android tablet