Computer Literacy
This class teaches students how to use and
access the computer with screen magnification or a screen reader, which
reads aloud the text on the screen. Such software allows students to
access all Microsoft Windows and Windows-based applications such as
Internet Explorer, Microsoft Word or Excel. Students are
encouraged to become a proficient, non-visual, touch typist, and all
students start computer training using a self-directed, self-paced
computer program to enforce this skill, as well as to build upon their
ability to listen to synthesized speech. Students are then taught to use
the software of choice, screen reader or magnifier, refreshable Braille
displays, accessible PDA’s or note takers, among other adaptive
technology tools. Students are given instruction in the
fundamental concepts underlying what they are doing so that they are
able to problem solve their way out of difficult situations and
teach themselves how to use software they may encounter in the future,
as technology is always changing.