Technology Services for Adults

Technology Helps—If You Know How to Use It.

The Carroll Center for the Blind offers hands-on technology training that can help blind and visually impaired individuals use technology proficiently for work and home. Instruction is offered in our state-of-the-art training center in Newton, Massachusetts, as well as remotely. Training is offered in small class sizes to ensure personalized attention for every learner. 

Tim P.

“The Carroll Center opened up a whole new world for me. Before attending their program, I did not have my own email address. If my wife received an email for me, she would either read it to me or she would print it for me to read on my CCTV. At the Carroll Center, I was set up with my own email address. Now, I can read emails at my leisure. The [Carroll Center] has given me the confidence and tools to go out in the work force and prove myself to potential employers.”

Workplace Computing

For adults seeking competitive employment, this 4-week program combines in-depth computer instruction in various applications with job searching skills. Computer topics covered include Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Email, file management, web browsing, scanning and more. Job seeking skills include resume update, interview skills, job application.

Extensive vocational development classes are also an integral part of this training program, helping participants to clarify and pursue their vocational goals. Employment-related topics include; benefits, disclosure and accommodations, interviewing, online job applications, networking, resume & cover letter preparation, and presenting oneself. Together with Carroll Center for the Blind employment specialists, each participant develops an action plan for getting a job.

BASIC COMPUTING

This two-week program is for individuals who are novice computer users, new to using computers with assistive technology, or are wishing to make the transition from low vision tools like screen magnification software to screen readers. This course provides basic training in the use of the Windows operating system, Microsoft Word for preparing documents, Outlook for emailing, and web browsing.

Participants must type 20 words per minute (WPM) with 90% accuracy, have note taking abilities/devices and read/write English. We strongly encourage students to have a personal email address and a computer or laptop for use at home upon completion of their training. All instruction is with the latest versions of: JAWS for Windows, ZoomText Fusion, or ZoomText Magnifier/Reader programs. Classes are offered monthly.

Screen Reader User Tester Training (SRUTT)

This five-week remote program for adults over the age of 18 will enhance your skills in professionally assessing and reporting on the accessibility of websites, mobile applications, and PDF documents. This program builds upon your existing skills and deepens your understanding of devices, web browsers, applications, and strategies, with a strong focus on assessing digital accessibility according to WCAG standards and requirements. Graduates of this program can look forward to per diem work, paid internships, as well as part-time and full-time employment opportunities.

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Computing for College

This is a three-week course offered in July and a two-week course offered in January, designed for high school and college students to develop Windows PC skills essential for success in higher education. Prerequisites: Participants must type 30 wpm with 90% accuracy, have basic computer skills, use email and have the ability to create documents.

Shorter Duration Courses

Ranging from as little as three hours to several days, these are offered on select topics for individuals who want to focus on specific applications or skills. Topics range from artificial intelligence (AI), Google Workspace products like Google Docs and Google Sheets, Apple iOS and MacOs, and beginner to advanced Microsoft Office skills. Individualized Instruction is also available in situations where the individual is using specialized technology.