Beginnings: This course helps you understand what a computer is, and the pros and cons of using print-enlarging software, refreshable braille displays and speech output to read the screen. You do not need a computer to take this course. Please note: This course teaches basic computer concepts, commonly used software and types of access technology that can be used by someone who has a visual impairment. It is not intended to serve as a training manual or tutorial.
Course: ATB-101, Media: B, C, LP or OL, Lessons: 4
Access Technology: Beginnings
Course ID: ATB-101
Audience
Adult Continuing Education and High School
Course Description
Computers have become more and more a part of daily life. They help people gain
direct access to services and information. This course is designed to help people
who are visually impaired access a computer. Its goal is to enable a person
to select hardware, software, and access technology to meet his or her needs.
Anyone interested in helping a family member, client, or student gain more independence
with a computer would also benefit from this course.
Media
large print, braille, audiocassette, online
Organization
Four lessons
Credit
1/2 Carnegie Unit
Prerequisites
none
Overview
Four assignments are submitted to the instructor.
Grading
letter grades
Average Completion Time
Approximately 4 months
Objectives and Content
After completing Lesson 1, you will be able to
a. summarize how PCs have evolved
b. describe the hardware components of a typical PC system
c. list different types of software
After completing Lesson 2, you will be able to describe the following types
of computer use:
a. word processing
b. data management
c. financial management
d. Internet use
e. games
f. programming
g. educational use
h. business and industry use
After completing Lesson 3, you will be able to
a. describe how users who are visually impaired access information on a PC
b. determine which access technology is most compatible with your preferred
medium
After completing Lesson 4, you will be able to
a. list the steps involved in selecting a PC
b. list the steps involved in selecting access technology
c. describe the various options available to finance the purchase of a PC and
access technology
d. identify sources of access technology training
Course Details
