Our Computer Training Program (CTP) and Braille Literacy Program have been adapted to remotely meet the needs of our community. For people who are blind, increasing computer and assistive technology skills results in greater independence, access to information, and opportunities to dream big, be upwardly mobile, and be gainfully employed.
Learning to read braille — a writing system that allows for reading using the fingertips instead of vision — is not easily converted to remote learning. But using a new curriculum, technology like refreshable braille displays, and lots of creativity, our instructors have adapted braille courses to be fully remote.
“Literacy can impact people’s lives. Sometimes learning braille is just about being able to label things to be more independent in your home. Sometimes it’s about getting more involved in the community. We know that there’s a correlation between people learning braille and an increased employment rate. So, it can have major impacts on peoples’ lives,” says Braille Literacy Instructor Jessica Cummings. No matter the subject, our instructors and service providers are determined to meet the needs of our community safely.
Computer and Assistive Technology Instructor, Gaylen Floy, notes what the remote CTP program has meant for employees. “The computer technology, it opens up doors and opportunities,” Gaylen shares. “It also helps people engage not just with their coworkers, but also to find out the news, and stay in touch with people. Especially during COVID, people have felt so isolated, so that has been a big plus.”
Computer and Technology Supervisor Di Black notes, “before remote training, we weren’t able to serve people directly at all of our locations.” Now, with curricula and infrastructure set up, remote training is available to all employees across Lighthouse locations.
Gaylen Floy, Computer & Assistive Technology Instructor
Di Black, Computer & Technology Supervisor
