[Trainer-talk] Requesting recommendations for Assistive Technology class outlines or curriculums

[Gatton, Tonia (OFB-LV)]

Hi all!  My name is Tonia Gatton and I am a totally blind rehab teacher
with the Kentucky Office for the Blind.  I have been teaching blindness
skills classes, including computer keyboarding and assistive technology
for several years now.  As of next week however, I'll be starting a new
journey as a full-time Assistive Technology trainer at our center.
I love technology and have been using a variety of AT products and
software for many years.  I'm confident in my skills and ability to
teach my students.  What I'd like suggestions on from those of you with
more experience in AT training though, is what kind of curriculums or
guidelines you use when working with your students.  We use the
Typability program to teach typing; so I think I've got that covered.
Where do you start with a brand new computer user verses someone who has
knowledge of the computer but is newly blind?  In what order do you
teach basic computing, word processing, email, internet etc.?  How
in-depth do you go in these areas?  Do you begin mostly with teaching
hot keys or do you have them first learn how to navigate through the
menus to perform various functions?  Do you incorporate any already
written or recorded tutorials; such as the Basic Jaws Training,
tutorials from ATI or NBP, NLS or RFB&D books etc.?
I know it sounds like I'm asking for a lot of information but I'd
appreciate any helpful hints you'd be willing to share.  I just don't
want to re-invent the wheel and I want to be an effective
instructor--providing my students with high quality and thorough
training that will have them prepared to enter the workforce.

Feel free to reply on or off list, or to call me at the number listed
below in my signature.

Thanks so much!

Tonia


Tonia Gatton
Rehab Instructor
KY Office for the blind
Charles W McDowell Center
8412 Westport Road
Louisville, KY 40242
800-346-2115
(502) 429-4460 ext 224
(502) 429-7113 fax
tonia.gatton at ky.gov

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