Assessment of Technology Needs

Assessments can take place in a range of different settings and can look at how mainstream technology can be adapted for your needs for example using large text or reversed screen colours on mobile phones and computers. We will discuss and, in some cases, try out specialist equipment to suit your needs which might include simple environmental controls, eye-gaze technology, software to aid communication, voice recognition software, alternative keyboards etc. Assessments are usually followed up with a report and sample costings for equipment if required.

Training

Jo can provide one to one training for clients as well as for their family and support team whether at home or in another setting. She can also provide CPD training for staff in schools, colleges and other locations on a wide selection of assistive software and hardware. Jo has provided information on free software solutions for Windows, Apple Macs, iOS and Android users at Kingston University as part of Freshers' week.

Consultancy

Jo can provide consultancy to individuals, families and organisations on the purchase and implementation of technology solutions. She has written a variety of materials to support self-help strategies including online self-assessment tools and self-help information sheets on MS Windows and Apple Mac free accessibility features.

Testimonial

Edward Wilson Primary School Visual Impairment Team
Training on MS Windows and Apple Mac built in accessibility

Did the training meet your expectations?

Yes, absolutely. The whole session had been well thought out and prepared.

What did you find most useful in the session?

We came away feeling more confident and refreshed in our understand of how to make IT accessible for our students. It was great to keep the handouts and crib sheets to pass on to other colleagues and to have as an aide memoire after the session.

Was the trainer able to answer your questions?

Yes, she made us feel at ease so that any question we asked was never dismissed or overlooked.

Would you use the trainer’s services again?

Absolutely, we felt she had a wealth of experience, knowledge and understanding of the wide array of access needed in an education setting. We would recommend ITadapted sessions for school inset training days.

Bristol Sensory Support Team Visual and Hearing Impairment Support Teams
Training on built in accessibility on the iPad and suitable apps

What did you find most useful in the session?

The hands on use of our iPads was very stimulating and decreased any fears I had about this new technology. I felt very enthusiastic about the features available and would like to explore them further.

Locating and using the built in accessibility and discovering number of finger taps, sweeps etc., to use with VoiceOver. Useful discussion on whether the iPad is the answer to everything and knowing what our objectives are.

Using settings to change some feature on the iPad and it was useful to investigate the issues in using Bluetooth and hearing aids.

Any other comments?

Very good and informative morning with good balance between hands on and taught sessions.

We were a mixed group both in our previous knowledge of iPads and use of apps as well as supporting a range of ability and visual impairments - Jo worked hard to ensure we were all included and kept up with each other. Not easy training teachers!