[NFBWATlk] FW: [Rehab] Introducing the National Certification in Access Technology for the Blind

Tue Jun 27 17:04:17 UTC 2023

Thought some onm on this list might find this of interest.

-----Original Message-----
From: Rehab <rehab-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of NBPCB Admin via Rehab
Sent: Tuesday, June 27, 2023 5:15 AM
To: nomc at lists.nbpcb.org; 'blind rehabilitation professionals mailing list' <rehab at nfbnet.org>; pibe-division at nfbnet.org
Cc: NBPCB Admin <admin at nbpcb.org>
Subject: [Rehab] Introducing the National Certification in Access Technology for the Blind
Importance: High

National Blindness Professional Certification Board

National Certification in Access Technology for the Blind

For complete information on the National Certification in Access Technology for the Blind, go to NCATB Certification Process <https://nbpcb.org/ncatb/>

The NCATB is a three-year renewable credential and is the only certification which can attest to an individual having met rigorous standards in the area of access technology teaching for the blind using Structured Discovery (SD) methods and principles. Individuals who are interested in applying for NCATB certification are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with all of the information included here.

The Structured Discovery paradigm is grounded in the Consumer-Based Model of Rehabilitation and has had unsurpassed outcomes for more than seven decades.
One of the key tenets of this approach to access technology teaching is that successful professionals must master the nonvisual skills for competently using technology that they are expected to teach. Strong problem-solving strategies and techniques are developed to effectively utilize both mainstream and access technology. It is also crucial to understand how an individual's internalized attitudes--as well as public attitudes--about blindness have on personal expectations and aspirations.

The preparation process for individuals teaching under the Structured Discovery model is heavily focused on the development of personal experience in learning and using the skills that blind persons depend on for safe and effective living. Beyond theoretical and academic exposition, Structured Discovery is based on hands-on learning, trust in the effectiveness and appropriateness of nonvisual skills, and an unwavering conviction in the normalcy and capacity of individuals who are blind to maintain their own independence and make decisions about how they live their lives.

Proper preparation to become certified as an Access Technology for the Blind instructor is dependent upon successful completion of either a University-based program or apprenticeship that is sanctioned by the National Blindness Professional Certification Board. This includes a minimum of 480 hours of immersion at an NBPCB-approved center  followed by proficiency demonstrated through a successful internship or apprenticeship completed at an NBPCB-approved center. Demonstration of this ability is documented through the verification of teaching competency form that is signed off by  the NBPCB-Approved training representative who oversees the immersion and/or teaching program. Individuals who wish to seek NCATB certification but who have not completed one of these formal programs will need to write a letter to the NBPCB board of directors that details their preparation experience, knowledge, skills, and disposition to teach Structured Discovery Access Technology as part of their application.

Successful applicants who earn the designation of NCATB maintain this status for a period of three years and are entitled to all rights and responsibilities therein as long as active certification status is maintained and the NBPCB Code of Conduct is upheld.

Application Process

Individuals seeking NCATB certification must submit the following:

*       Completed application form
*       Personal essay explaining interest in becoming an Access Technology
SD certified instructor
*       Resume
*       Two letters of support from persons who can attest to the
applicant's character, motivation, teaching ability, and fitness and suitability for the profession
*         Verification of Immersion form *
*       Payment of all applicable fees

Examination Process

Once an application has been approved, the individual seeking certification is then eligible to proceed with the following examination process.

*        Submit Verification of Teaching Competency form (provided directly
by the supervisor or applicable person.)*
*       Participate in an interview conducted by the NCATB evaluation panel.
*       Take the NCATB written examination

*Individuals who have not completed a formal program of preparation recognized by the NBPCB must seek guidance from the NBPCB office on how to properly complete the Verification of Immersion and Verification of Teaching Competency forms. Individuals will also need to submit a letter to the NBPCB board outlining their own personal AT training and preparation to be an AT instructor.

Note: Applications will not be processed nor will individuals be allowed to sit for the written examination without all supporting documentation and payment of application fees.

All required documents must be sent directly in separate attachments to the NBPCB Office at admin at nbpcb.org <mailto:admin at nbpcb.org> .

Questions or request for application materials may be directed to:

NBPCB Office

PO Box 2373

Ruston LA 71273

318 299-7340

admin at nbpcb.org <mailto:admin at nbpcb.org> q

NBPCB Office

PO Box 2373

Ruston LA 71273

318 299-7340

 <mailto:admin at nbpcb.org> admin at nbpcb.org

 <http://www.nbpcb.org> www.nbpcb.org

 <https://www.nbpcb.org/pages/lookup.php> Click here to verify the status of NBPCB certified professionals

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