About CTC Courses:

• Two-Week Evaluation Course
• Introduction to Computers
• Intermediate Computer Usage
• Using the Internet (Email and Web Browsing, including Web searching)
• Microsoft Word
• Freedom Scientific Notetaker

Computer Technology Center
ASB's Computer Technology Center (CTC) has been established to teach blind and visually impaired people how to use computers along with appropriate assistive technology such as screen readers or screen magnification software.  While using a computer may appear to be a simple concept to learn for sighted mouse users, blind and visually impaired people are faced with a unique set of challenges in order to effectively use computer technology.  Blind people need software which will enable them to hear not only what they type but also to hear what is on the screen.  A totally blind person is unable to use a mouse to navigate through files or to click on icons, and so alternative keyboard commands need to be taught.  Users with partial vision may be able to use a mouse, but they will need special software which will enlarge the text and graphics which appears on the screen.

Blind users are given the opportunity to learn how to use computers by using either JAWS for Windows from Freedom Scientific or Window-eyes from GW Micro.  JAWS and Window-eyes are known as screen readers, because these programs "read" the information which appears on the screen by using synthesized speech.  This information can come from spreadsheets, word processors, email packages or Web browsers.   Screen readers can also speak the keys which the user types and will also allow a blind user to review what is on the screen with simple navigation commands.

Zoomtext is a screen magnification program from AI Squared.  Although this program does offer some speech output, its primary focus is to enlarge everything on the screen to allow users of low vision to use a computer, which can include the same types of software described above.

The Computer Technology Center currently offers a two-week evaluation course for people who have no knowledge or experience with computers or assistive technology.  We also offer several additional courses which are five weeks each.  Currently, we offer courses covering the following topics.

• Introduction to Computers
• Intermediate Computer Usage
• Using the Internet (Email and Web Browsing, including Web searching)
• Microsoft Word

We also offer a five-week training program for users who want to learn how to use a Freedom Scientific Notetaker, such as the Braille 'n Speak, Type 'n Speak or Braille Lite.

If you'd like additional information, please call us at (215) 627-0600, extension 3250, or you may email David Goldfield with any questions you may have.

Disclaimer:  The information contained in these pages is provided as a courtesy by Associated Services for the Blind (ASB).  ASB expressly disclaims any representation or warranty express or implied concerning the accuracy, completeness or fitness for a particular purpose of the information.  Persons accessing this information assume full responsibility for the use of the information and understand and agree that ASB is not responsible or liable for any claim, loss or damage arising from the use of the information.  Reference to specific products, processes, or services do not constitute or imply recommendation or endorsement by the ASB.  The views and opinions of the information contributors do not necessarily state or reflect those of the ASB.