DO-IT is increasing the representation of people with disabilities in science, engineering, mathematics, and technology academic programs and careers. DO-IT uses computer technology, adaptive technology, and the Internet to help individuals with disabilities reach academic and career goals. Primary funding is provided by the National Science Foundation and the State of Washington. Additional grants have been received from NEC Foundation of America, the Seattle Foundation, the Telecommunications Funding Partnership, the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. West Communications, Washington State Services for the Blind, and Visio Corporation. It has won national awards for its unique programs, including the National Information Infrastructure Award in Education and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. DO-IT was also showcased at the 1997 Presidents' Summit on Volunteerism. DO-IT supports several key initiatives:
K-12 to College Transition
DO-IT Scholars are high school students with disabilities who have an interest and aptitude in science, engineering, mathematics, or technology, and who have a desire to attend college. DO-IT Scholars attend live-in summer study programs at the University of Washington and communicate electronically with each other as well as mentors.
DO-IT Pals form an electronic community of pre-college students with disabilities from around the world. They are supported by one another and by DO-IT Mentors in their efforts to pursue college degrees and careers.
DO-IT Campers participate in Internet, science, and college preview programs at existing camps for children and youth with disabilities. Some campers become DO-IT Pals.
Two-Year to Four-Year College Transition
DO-IT 2-4 helps students with disabilities in community colleges successfully transition to four-year schools.
School-to-Work Transition
DO-IT CAREERS (Careers, Academics, Research, Experiential Education, and Relevant Skills) works to increase the participation of students with disabilities in work-based learning programs such as internships and cooperative education. It helps them to meet school-to-work challenges as well as those related to their disabilities.
Training Teachers
DO-IT MATH-SCI helps teachers and faculty of science and mathematics understand the potential contributions and accommodation needs of students with disabilities.
Access to College, Employment, WWW, Libraries, Labs
DO-IT supports a broad community through workshops, presentations, publications, videotapes, electronic discussion lists, and the World Wide Web. Topics covered include adaptive technology, transition to college and employment for individuals with disabilities, accessible Web page design, accessible libraries and labs, and strategies for accommodating and including individuals with disabilities in the classroom and workplace. DO-IT has created a thriving electronic community through its discussion lists and World Wide Web site.
Key Staff Members
Dr. Sheryl Burgstahler, director
Dan Comden, technology specialist
Kathy Cook, counselor/coordinator
Marvin Crippen, technology research assistant
Deb Cronheim, research coordinator
Dr. Steve Nourse, DO-IT 2-4 & MATH-SCI coordinator
James O'Connor, counselor/assistant
Kristin Otis, DO-IT counselor/coordinator
Julie Smallman, CAREERS coordinator