Assistive Technology

Overview: Assistive Computer Technology training is based on a number of factors, including the client’s ability, skill assessment and defined goals.  A holistic approach is taken to ensure that each client is exposed to Assistive Technology in all of the training areas.  

Assistive Technology consists of the use of concepts, software, and devices which are integrated into all areas of training such as Keyboarding, Communications, Personal Management, Vocational Readiness,  and Orientation and Mobility.

Clients learn the computer from the inside out. Starting with a hands-on exposure to the computer chip, motherboard, and all other internal parts, the clients move from the inside to the outside of the computer, learning where items plug in, what terms are used for those items, and what the function of each specific item is.

Microsoft Windows is the primary operating system taught in Assistive Technology classes. If a client has a need, the Apple Mac or Linux with speech can be taught.

Computer organization is a key component of Assistive Technology. Clients first learn how to use an organized approach to exploring Windows, Mac, or Linux. Next, they learn about terms such as “programs, drives, folders, and files.” Finally, the clients learn how to create folders on a specific hard drive, then on a USB memory/flash stick, and then create a file from within one of the folders.

Microsoft Office and the internet are heavily stressed programs. Word, Excel, and Outlook are thoroughly covered, in most cases. PowerPoint has been taught to clients who are currently in school or are returning to school.

Clients learn about the assistive technology built into Windows, the Mac, and/or Linux. They are exposed to free programs that run from the internet and free programs that can be put on their own computer. JAWS, WinEyes, System Access, ZoomText, Magic, Kurzweil 1000, OpenBook, and Dragon Naturally Speaking Preferred with J-Say, are such mainstream programs.

Assistive Technology recommendations are based on client needs and goals whether it is work, school or home. Training at the higher levels depends on the direction the client is taking.

Assignments from areas such as counseling, orientation and mobility, keyboarding, communications, personal management, and vocational readiness cross over into assistive technology.

Assistive Technology has developed and posted a web page to meet these needs. Brists.com is a free site and has information on local (Indianapolis) and surrounding areas for transportation, housing, services, reading resources, rehabilitation and much more.

Assistive Technology also helps train people who are currently on the job. Production line leaders come to the AT Lab two times per week to learn how to more efficiently use the Excel sheets that are used on the production lines, and how to utilize their email and calendar to keep up to date on communications and meetings.

Former Bosma Rehabilitation clients have had on-site training with computers and phones at their work place. Braille lists, phone markings, and task recordings are some of the types of training that occur at these sites.

Bosma Assistive Technology operates remotely on a national level. Work with organizations such as NISH and NIB, in terms to evaluating web sites and programs in the call center and secure mail sectors, has helped companies re-develop their programs to allow people who are blind or visually impaired to obtain and keep jobs.

Bosma AT information is known at the top levels of special education in Indiana for school-aged students as well as by a number of universities. Graduate level students who will be working with students who are blind and visually impaired, are being educated through a college level course taught by the Bosma AT instructor.

Bosma Rehabilitation Assistive Technology has the same mission as rehabilitation in general—a holistic approach to a life of equal opportunity in the mainstream society.