COMMUNICATION ACCESS REALTIME TRANSLATION (CART)

Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART), also referred to as realtime captioning or live-event captioning, is a way to transcribe the spoken word into readable English text using a stenotype machine, notebook computer, and realtime software. Through the services of CART providers, text appears on a computer monitor or other display and serves as an important communication tool for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or learning a second language.

CART provides a complete translation of all spoken words and environmental sounds for the benefit of an individual consumer or larger group in a variety of settings, including classrooms, courtrooms, religious services, conventions and conferences, personal appointments and meetings, civic events, cultural presentations, or anywhere communication access is needed.

A CART provider is a highly trained professional who possesses the advanced skills required to impartially, effectively, and accurately perform realtime translation.

About CART

• CART providers most often work as independent contractors.
  
  
• About 30 million Americans are considered deaf or have some form of hearing loss.
  
  
• Unlike computerized notetaking or abbreviation systems, CART provides a complete translation of all spoken words and environmental sounds, letting consumers decide for
  themselves what information is important.
  
  
• CART is specifically recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act as an assistive technology that affords effective communications access.
  
  
• CART providers usually accompany CART consumers to the site of the event. But, depending on circumstances, a CART provider may be able to work remotely using a phone line and an Internet connection.