Have you ever struggled to see who’s calling, or wished your phone could read the caller’s name aloud? What if your phone could take voice commands, making a call with just a spoken request? These everyday conveniences are features many of us take for granted, yet they can be life-changing for people with vision loss. Technology Access Training offers blind and visually impaired individuals the skills and tools they need to fully embrace these technologies—empowering them to live more independently.
Technology Access Training equips individuals with essential skills to navigate a wide range of tools like screen readers, magnification software, and voice recognition systems. Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialists (CATIS) play a crucial role in this process. These professionals provide personalized instruction, helping people learn how to use technology to perform tasks like managing emails, accessing the internet, or even reading print materials through optical character recognition devices. With guidance from a certified trainer, clients can confidently integrate technology into their personal and professional lives.
Why CATIS Certification Matters
One of the key reasons to work with a CATIS-certified instructor is the specialized training and comprehensive approach they bring to the table. CATIS professionals not only focus on the technical side of assistive technology, but also on the individual’s physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. Becoming a CATIS involves rigorous training, including 350 hours of hands-on experience, ensuring that the instructor is well-prepared to offer expert support. Institutions like North Carolina Central University and Northern Illinois University offer programs designed to develop these essential skills.
By working with a CATIS, clients can feel confident knowing they are receiving high-quality training tailored to their specific needs, making the sometimes overwhelming transition to technology smoother and more effective. Access technology—whether it’s a screen reader on a computer or magnification tools on a smartphone—empowers individuals to maintain their independence in an increasingly tech-driven world.