GATES - Computer and Assistive Technology

GATES – COMPUTER AND ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Computer and Assistive Technology teaches basic computer skills to assist students who are blind and visually impaired to facilitate learning in all areas. Technology can be a great equalizer. For the Braille user, technology allows the student to provide feedback to teachers by first producing material in Braille for personal use, and then in print for the teacher, classmates, and parents. It gives individuals who are blind the capability of storing and retrieving information. Technology enhances communication and learning, as well as expands the world of individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Technology is an essential part of the Expanded Core Curriculum. Computer/Assistive Technology goals include: word processing, spreadsheets, databases, telecommunications, text enlargement or speech output programs, Braille/Large Print production, and the use of Braille ’n Speak, Braille Lite, Braille and/or PacMate.

2501 – Windows i.e. JAWS, Window-Eyes or ZoomText
Credit: .25
Meets Daily for 9 weeks
Prerequisite: Must be recommended by LEA
Look through any window and enjoy the taste of success one byte at a time through an introduction to Windows concepts using JAWS, Window-eyes or ZoomText.
This brief tech trek will develop basic cyber building blocks necessary for higher level activities such as internet browsing and/or word processing.

Text regarding teaching Windows concepts with assistive screen access from Dewitt and Associates 2007 along with supplements are used to enhance the potential of today’s dreams of independence becoming tomorrow’s reality.

2502 – Use of Desktop, Laptop or Notetaker
Credit: .25
Meets Daily for 9 weeks
Prerequisite: Must be recommended by LEA
Note: Laptops or Notetakers are provided during instruction if available. Students visiting from a different school district should consider bringing their own.
This second tour of assistive technology provides instruction using Microsoft Word with screen reading and/or screen enlargement software, embossing with Duxbury, Kurzweil Scanning Software and a portable book storage device (Milestone or BookPort.) all using the desktop. Additionally, students will develop skills moving data between a note taker, desktop and portable book storage device.

2503 – Untangling the Web
Credit: .25
Meets Daily for 9 weeks
Prerequisite: Must be recommended by LEA
This course in an introduction to Internet Explorer using JAWS, Window-eyes or ZoomText. This brief tech trek will develop basic cyber building blocks necessary for higher level activities. Individuals enrolled in this course will complete an extensive tour through the World Wide Web and several practical activities which will enhance everyday independence.

2504 – Outlook Express Using JAWS, Window-Eyes, or ZoomText
Credit: .25
Meets Daily for 9 weeks
Prerequisite: Must be recommended by LEA
May you send the right message with a trip on the Outlook Express. Students are provided extensive training using Outlook Express with JAWS, window-eyes or ZoomText.

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