Discrete training

Learners have support from staff who have had specific training on supporting Assistive Technology usage.

Specific Assistive Technology training can be a challenge to find; there are few professional qualifications or routes into the role of Assistive Technologist, particularly in the field of education.

Professionals in this field will often have a background in some or all of:

  • Therapy
  • Education
  • Technology

Interpersonal skills are important due to collaborative and learner-focused elements. It is rare to recruit someone who is instantly able to fully undertake this role.

The key areas of knowledge required are in needs assessment and specific technologies (see Tools, Visual Methods of Working and Independence and Living)

Here are some providers of specific AT training:

Use of support networks

Learners benefit from staff who use support networks to improve their knowledge and troubleshoot issues

Building up a network of groups is vital to staying abreast of new technology, innovations and wider sector developments. Consider using a mixture of social networks, newsletters and events.

TechAbility have a number of resources that are available, including:

It is worth considering signing up to the JISC Assistive Technology Mailing List where you can post queries to the network and also contribute. The JISC website is a huge repository where you can find details on the following:

Research

Learners have access to new and useful technology solutions sourced in response to research by staff.

Research should include attendance at conferences, academic courses and vendor training.

You may consider some of the following: