At The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., the Computer Training Program (CTP) exists to increase and support independence, self-sufficiency, and upward mobility in the workplace for blind adults through appropriate training and access to computer technology. In order for our employees to succeed in the workplace we provide comprehensive training and support. This support and training provides increased access for blind and visually impaired employees, and increases the opportunity for upward mobility in the workplace.

The CTP provides instruction in assistive and mainstream technologies to blind and visually impaired employees at Seattle Lighthouse. Computer training instructors provide individualized training to blind and visually impaired employees to support opportunities for upward mobility in the workplace, increased personal independence, and increased technological literacy. Areas of concentration include keyboarding, computer programs, email, the Internet, and the technology that makes computers accessible to blind users. These include JAWS for Windows screenreading software, ZoomText screen enlargement software and Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Outlook, Excel and Internet Explorer. CTP course terms are nine weeks, and can be extended if it is determined necessary by the student and instructor. The Lighthouse encourages employees to take advantage of trainings available in the CTP, with employees able to engage in training three hours a week during paid work time. CTP courses are provided to employees free-of-charge.

In addition to individual training, the CTP creates customized materials and courses centered on various topics as demand arises and technologies change, from downloading audible books to accessing email and using the internet via the telephone. The program utilizes curricula from Carrol Tech and De Witt and Associates, both curriculum courseware development experts in the blindness technology field.

Program Goals and Success Measurements

After an evaluation to determine current skill levels, each participant meets with CTP program staff to discuss individual goals. Upon approval by the CTP administrator, programming and training is tailored to meet these goals. There is no overarching curriculum. The path to increased technology literacy, personal independence or enhanced job skills is different for each person — as different as the type of vision loss or amount of remaining vision one may have.

The primary goal for the program is to improve blind and visually impaired individual’s lives by promoting opportunities for independence and self-sufficiency. CTP programming brings computer and assistive technology to blind adults who may not have had access before, or who may need to learn assistive technologies as their vision deteriorates. Curriculum is jointly developed between the program instructor and the program participant centered on their individual goals, and meeting these individual professional and personal goals is the major outcome we seek. Follow-up with past program participants shows that individuals are practicing and retaining skills learned during the program. However, individual needs may change over time due to deteriorating vision. Standard and assistive technology is constantly changing as well. As a result, participants may return to the program and learn things in a whole new way, using different adaptive technologies.

CTP program instructors maintain formal measurements including statistics reflecting individual goals, progress, and outcomes achieved by participants. Three computer training instructors staff the CTP, and also document the types of technology that is needed by each individual for accessibility. To insure that appropriate technology is used for each individual based on skills, vision loss, and goals, CTP instructors establish open communication and conduct one-on-one training. Program staff and individual participants discuss goals and work plans, and revise work plans and timelines if necessary. Participants are highly involved in the evaluation of progress toward their own goals. Instructors meet weekly to discuss the progress of individual students.