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 workforce and prove myself to potential employers.”

Workplace Computing

Designed for adults seeking competitive employment, this supportive 4-week program combines in-depth computer instruction in various applications with job searching skills. Participants build confidence by learning essential applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, email, file management, web browsing, and scanning, all to support their path toward meaningful employment.

Learn More About Workplace Computing Training

Screen Reader User Tester Training (SRUTT)

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

Learn More About Screen Reader User Tester Training

Basic Computing

Designed for individuals who are novice computer users, new to using computers with assistive technology, or transitioning from low vision tools such as screen magnification software to screen readers. This two-week program provides foundational instruction in the Windows operating system, Microsoft Word for preparing documents, Outlook for emailing, and web browsing. Students learn using the latest versions of JAWS for Windows, ZoomText Fusion, or ZoomText Magnifier/Reader programs. Participants must type 20 words per minute (WPM) with 90% accuracy, have note-taking abilities or devices, and read and write English. Having a personal email address and a computer or laptop at home is strongly encouraged to continue practice after the program.

Computing for College

Created for high school and college students, this course helps build essential Windows PC skills for success in higher education. It is offered as a three-week session in July and a two-week session in January. Prerequisites include the ability to type 30 words per minute (WPM) with 90% accuracy, basic computer skills, email proficiency, and the ability to create documents.

Shorter Duration Courses

Ranging from as little as three hours to several days, these sessions 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 such as Google Docs and Google Sheets, Apple iOS and macOS, and Microsoft Office skills from beginner to advanced levels. Individualized instruction is also available for participants using specialized technology.

Meta Glasses Training

Learn how to read text, gain environmental information, connect to apps like Be My Eyes, and more through this 2-hour individualized, hands-on Meta Glasses training. Designed to enhance confidence to either purchase Meta glasses or use your own pair more effectively. Free for any Massachusetts residents registered with the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind. Please note that the use of Meta glasses requires a smartphone or tablet.

Resources

The Windows Screen Reader Primer: All the Basics and More

The Windows Screen Reader Primer is a free training resource designed to help beginning and intermediate JAWS, NVDA, and Windows Narrator users work more effectively with the most important PC applications. It was written by David Kingsbury, an Assistive Technology Instructor at the Carroll Center for the Blind, and is available in Word and ePub formats.

Learn More and Download The Windows Screen Reader Primer Book