Technology Services for Adults
Technology Helps—If You Know How to Use It.
The Carroll Center for the Blind offers a variety of access technology instructional programs that can help blind and visually impaired individuals use technology proficiently for work and home. Programs are available for individuals as well as teachers and rehabilitation professionals in the use of speech output, screen magnification, braille technology, iPhone, iPad, tablets, Microsoft Office applications and smartphones.
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.”
Training is offered in our state-of-the-art training center in Newton, Massachusetts as well as in your local office, school or home or through e-learning instruction delivered over the internet. Group and individualized instruction are offered, so whether you are a new user, have just upgraded your system or need to learn a specific software program, we can create a program just for you.
ONE-DAY SMALL GROUP TECHNOLOGY COURSES
This series of one-day, small group (maximum of 3 to 4 participants) computer courses is geared towards individuals that need refreshing on topic-specific material and is offered on a rolling basis.
BASIC COMPUTING
This 2-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.
INTENSIVE COMPUTING
This 4-week program provides clients with an intermediate level of skills in the Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint with screen readers or screen enlargement programs.
COMPUTING FOR EMPLOYMENT
For adults seeking competitive employment, this 6-week program combines in-depth computer instruction in various applications with job searching skills. Computer topics covered include all those in the four-week intensive course, but with added job seeking components.
CUSTOMIZED APPLE TRAINING
For individuals who use Apple products we offer customized training for built-in accessibility features such as Zoom (a screen magnification application) and Voiceover (a screen reader application) which make these devices attractive to consumers with low or no vision. Refreshable braille can also be taught.
CUSTOMIZED ON-SITE TRAINING
Let us come to your office to provide instruction on your work station. Ideal when your work tasks involve specific software or applications.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENTS
Individuals with vision loss and changes in vision can benefit from assessments that evaluate the best assistive technology solutions for you. Assessments can be completed in half to full days with our assistive technology staff who have access to a wide variety of equipment.
Assessments are conducted by Robert McGillivray, Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT) and Heather Thomas, Assistive Technology Instructor. Together, the team brings over 60 years of experience to the evaluation process. Assessments are conducted at the Carroll Center or at the work site.
About Bob McGillivray
As a CLVT, Bob focuses his time with clients on evaluating the effectiveness of low vision devices, techniques and technologies in supporting their personal needs, while also looking at their visual efficiency while trying a variety devices. In the clinical setting at the Carroll Center, Bob is able to evaluate and demonstrate a multitude of devices and technologies he has on hand. When clients are interested in a specific device that is not regularly kept in the clinic, Bob is often able to borrow specific devices for trial during the assessment.
About Heather Thomas
As an Assistive Technology Instructor, Heather has gained a practical understanding of the strengths and limitations of specific assistive technology software and hardware devices after years of training. Heather works with consumers to determine the most appropriate combination of tools that will allow them to avoid eye strain and complete tasks in a timely fashion. She also helps to identify current skill levels and training needs in order to help individuals complete their work as comfortably and efficiently as possible. Through observations, discussions of goals and preferences, and demonstrations of equipment, Heather shares recommendations for devices, modifications and training with consumers, teachers, and sponsoring agencies.
ECARROLL REMOTE TECHNOLOGY INSTRUCTION
Can’t attend a training course face to face? Need instruction in a specific application on your phone or computer? Remote Technology Instruction is the perfect solution for you.