Welcome to the Internet-Based Assistive Technology training at the Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired in which speech and screen magnification are used to read and process information. The focus of this very specialized training is on use of the keyboard rather than the mouse. If you are experiencing or have experienced a loss of sight, you can now learn to produce documents and maintain records with commonly used software programs in the comfort of your own home! Courses are monitored and supported by trained Assistive Technology Instructors to insure that you receive individual attention and timely responses to questions or concerns.

Courses available or currently in development using the Internet are:

• Parts of the Computer
• Computer Foundations
• Internet Explorer
• Microsoft Word
• Excel
• Microsoft Outlook for E-mail
• OpenBook
• MAGic
• WindowEyes
• ZoomText
• JAWS
• Braille 2000

• Every course consists of a series of classes, each of which builds on the one before. You will be asked to complete homework assignments and to assess your progress from time to time. This might include short quizzes and demonstrations of the concepts you have learned given at the end of each class as well as at the end of your training. Instructors will be available to respond to your concerns and discuss your ideas.

What to bring: an open mind to learning the assistive technology available at the Center! You can relax knowing that any specific requirements will be discussed with you in advance so that you will be prepared. All we ask is your willingness to learn and ask questions.