ATTACHMENT O

GUIDELINES FOR UTILIZING COMPUTER-ASSISTED
NOTETAKERS

What is computer-assisted notetaking (CAN)? Computer-assisted notetakers provide an important service for those people who are deaf, hard of hearing or deaf-blind who do not use sign language, making it easier for their participation at meetings or in classrooms. Computer-assisted notetaking (CAN) services mean professional services performed by a typist using a laptop computer. The CAN typist provides a summary of a speaker's words or notes typed into a laptop computer and displayed onto its screen. CAN services are distinguished from real-time captioning services in that what is typed may be simultaneous, but not necessarily word-for-word, and stenographic equipment and skills are not involved.

Are computer-assisted notetakers credentialed?

There currently are no known national or local agencies that award credentials for computer-assisted notetakers. It is advisable that a state agency utilize a person who meets all or a majority of the following characteristics in order to provide computer-assisted notetaking services:

• ability to organize and summarize information;
• ability to type at least 60 words per minute;
• familiarity with the subject being discussed;
• experience working with consumers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or deaf-blind;
• working knowledge of laptop computers and word-processing software;
• good auditory, verbal, and spelling skills.

March 2008                 Attachment O, Page 1
Disability and Communication Access Board

Who develops rules for Hawaii state government agencies regarding computer assisted notetakers?

These guidelines are derived from Hawaii Administrative Rules, Chapter 11-218. The Disability and Communication Access Board develops administrative rules for providers of communication access services, such as computer-assisted notetakers. The rules establish guidelines for State Executive Branch agencies hiring providers, including recommended fees. Guidelines for computer-assisted notetakers are similar to those for interpreters (see Attachment M). Contact DCAB at the phone numbers below for more information or for a copy of the rules. The DCAB can also provide a list of resources that includes computer-assisted notetaking services and information.

If you need to hire a computer-assisted notetaker on a fee-for-service basis, the next two pages, ATTACHMENT O-1, provide a sample purchase order for computer-assisted notetaker services, as well as a sample invoice from a free-lance computer-assisted notetaker billing for services. (Please note that the hourly rate indicated on the invoice is for illustrative purposes only and not intended to reflect a recommended billing rate.)

March 2008                 Attachment O, Page 2
Disability and Communication Access Board

ATTACHMENT O-1

March 2008                 Attachment O, Page 3
Disability and Communication Access Board

ATTACHMENT 0-1 (continued)

INVOICE

December 15, xxxx

Department of Protocol
Accounts Receivable
1234 Kona Street
Honolulu, HI 96813

For services rendered during the month of December xxxx for computer assisted notetaker services to provide communication access for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to access Department of Protocol programs.

Please send the payment to the address listed above.

Sincerely,

JANE KAUAI

March 2008                  Attachment 0, Page 4
Disability and Communication Access Board