This 4-part series is an unusual opportunity to experience the same content as James provides in on-site 2-day seminars. The series will combine both live presentations and asynchronous, directed discussions between presentations based on James book: Managing the Assistive Technology Process
This workshop is designed to avoid the usual jargon and to provide tips on managing a comprehensive college AT program. It is particularly designed for AT or DS coordinators who are relatively new to the field. It is also very helpful for a manager who needs to integrate a few disparate AT offerings into an articulated program of services.
Annual Webinar members will have access to the series free as part of their membership. However, they be expected to order the book themselves from the publisher which you can do from the above link.
Participants who arrange to do extra work and pay an extra $85 will receive 3 CEUs and also credit for one of the 5 courses required for the Certificate in Accessible Information Technology.
First, like everyone, you need to attend the 4 Webinars and/or watch their recordings. Second, you need to do the readings from the text. Third, you need to have participated in the online discussion board in Blackboard to which you will receive access.
However in order to earn the 3 CEUs you will also have to write a paper. The exact topic will be negotiated between you and James. Most probably it will require your taking some portion of the book and developing a paper demonstrating how to apply its principles on your specific campus.
Actually, you will register for the EASI Special Topics Course which is $280 instead of registering for the Webinar. Use the next link to learn details on registering for Special Topics instead of merely for the Webinar series:
Read about Special Topics and how to earn the 3 CEUs
(The Webinar only registration is at the bottom of this page!)
Detailed Webinar Description
(the chapter numbers below refer to readings in the text.)
EASI Live Session 1
Assistive Technology for Physical Disabilities
This covers the technical accommodations for various disabilities. It discusses end-user, technical support and training complexities for each type of accommodation.
Deployment Options for Assistive Technology
There are multiple ways to place AT on your campus. Each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Deploying AT is not done in a vacuum and must include the consideration of the students served and the type of college for best results.
EASI Posted Independent Session 1
What is AT in Higher Education?
AT has many definitions. This module provides an understanding AT in the context of higher education.
EASI Live Session 2
Assistive Technology for Learning Disabilities
Providing AT to students with learning disabilities can be complicated and far less clear cut than accommodating students with physical disabilities. This module provides a sound foundation for helping these students.
Training for Students with Disabilities
Training on AT is required according to the Office of Civil Rights (OCR). This module covers defining and delivering your training to students receiving accommodations.
EASI Posted Independent Session 2
Hiring and Managing AT Staff
AT is an expanding field and you may need additional staff to meet demand. This module covers the range from student help to full time credentialed staff.
EASI Live Session 3
Producing Alternative Text and Media
This module provides a solid foundation for providing services to students with print disabilities. It covers the range of getting files from publishers to scanning books and creating files on your campus.
AT for the Web and Distance Education
The Web is becoming a parallel educational environment. It offers many potential benefits to students with disabilities, but at the same time, there are numerous accessibility hazards that must be overcome. This module presents an overview of making the Web and Distance Education an accessible environment for all students.
EASI Posted Independent Session 3
Collaborating with Campus IT
A sound relationship with campus IT is essential to a successful AT program. This module offers advice on developing a mutually beneficial relationship with your campus IT.
EASI Live Session 4
Assistive Technology and the Law
Access to educational services for college students with disabilities is a federally protected civil right. This section covers operating within OCR guidelines and reviews resolution letters that have shaped college AT programs.
Creating an AT Management Plan
College AT programs are becoming a mix independent programs. For greatest efficiency, these programs need to be unified within an AT management plan. A good plan also looks to the future so forthcoming changes are planned for rather than being disruptive surprises
We promise to avoid technical jargon whenever possible. When it can't be avoided, it will be explained in simple language!
The link below will take you to a secure server. From the list of EASI events you find there, select EASI Webin Conference and from there select the date, April 21 which is the starting date. You may then select to pay by credit card, check or purchase order.