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AbilityNet Courses 2008
AbilityNet run one-day courses of interest to professionals in education, personnel, occupational health, equal opportunities and staff welfare, who wish to help people with all types of disabilities or difficulties such as “RSI”, eye strain, etc. Our courses are run in various venues in the UK throughout the year. We can also tailor-make a course for your organisation and are happy to put on any courses in-house for your organisation.
We are able to offer early booking and multiple booking discounts on the prices shown below. A 10% discount for bookings received 2 months in advance, a 20% discount for bookings received 4 months in advance and a 10% discount for 3 or more people attending from one organisation.New for 2008
Twilight Tutorials
A course of 10 live online tutorials on a range of themes starting from April 2008.
Each tutorial is delivered online with a live presenter to interact and discuss issues with.
No travel – easy to manage – interactive learning in bite sized chunks.
All sessions 3.45 to 4.30
Sessions include:
- 28th April 2008 – Introduction to accessibility
- 5th May 2008 – Accessibility options in Windows
- 12th May 2008 – Introducing ease of access in Windows Vista
- 19th May 2008 – Key steps in identifying needs of users
- 26th May 2008 – Choosing a screen reader
- 2nd June 2008 – Choosing a Magnification Solution
- 9th June 2008 – Solutions for Literacy
- 16th June 2008 – Getting started with Voice Recognition
- 23rd June 2008 – Meeting Physical Needs through low cost solutions
- 30th June 2008 – Other input systems – Head, eyes, Switches etc – And Summary
Access to the programme of 10 tutorials – £250 + VAT per seat
Individual tutorials – £50 + VAT per seat
Dragon Naturally Speaking CD and online Course
In partnership with TuitionZone AbilityNet launch the first online Dragon Naturally Speaking training course in the UK. This course will teach all of the techniques needed to start using Dragon efficiently and effectively
Online Course £35+ VAT per year per user (includes all updates)
CD-Rom version £40+VAT per use
Confirmed Courses 2008
Low Cost No Cost Assistive Technology
This course is a great introduction to adaptive technology that looks at practical and cost effective solutions to make the computer safer and easier to use for all. Whether a user is disabled or able-bodied a standard keyboard, mouse and monitor is not always the most appropriate solution. Whilst some alternative technology can be sophisticated (and therefore relatively expensive) there are also many low cost practical adjustments available. None of the powerful ideas demonstrated on this course cost more than £150 and many are FREE.
- 14th March 2008 – British Computer Society, Central London
- 11th April 2008 – Momentum, Glasgow, Scotland
- 23rd May 2008 – North East Brain Injury Centre, Newcastle
- 9th June 2008 – Godmanchester Professional Development Centre, Cambridge
- September (tbc) Bristol
£150 +VAT per delegate and will be held from 10.00am to 16.00pm
£225 + VAT per delegate including access to all e-learning materials for one year
For more information about this course download Low Cost No Cost Assistive Technology course information (PDF 504KB).
To book a place on this course courses@abilitynet.org.uk or phone 0800 269545 or download the Low Cost No Cost Assistive Technology Booking Form (231KB).
Computer Access and Inclusion for Learners with Disabilities
If you offer ICT facilities to your clients or for public use, you need to be able to make these facilities accessible to disabled users. This one-day course aimed at Colleges, Universities, Adult Learning Centres, Libraries and Community Centres; will show you how you can provide computer access for those with physical, visual or learning difficulties or indeed anyone who finds it difficult to use the standard screen, keyboard or mouse. The course includes useful ‘FREE’ adjustments to the computer that can be used to support learning and information search.
"Thank you for the excellent training session, the most useful I have experienced on this topic" previous course attendee
- 23rd May 2008 – British Computer Society, Central London
- 19th September 2008 – AbilityNet, IBM Office, Warwick
£125 +VAT per delegate and will be held from 10.00am to 16.00pm
£225 + VAT per delegate to include access to all e-learning for one year
For more information about this course download Computer Access and Inclusion for Learners with Disabilities course information (PDF 481KB).
To book a place on this course courses@abilitynet.org.uk or phone 0800 269545 or download the Computer Access and Inclusion for Learners with Disabilities Booking Form (231KB).
Using ICT to Support People with Dyslexia
As we become more aware of how widespread dyslexia and other reading and writing problems are and how limiting their effects can be, there is a need for earlier identification and more effective remedial action. Computers are an extremely effective tool in making this possible. This course will equip delegates with information on software & hardware that helps those who have a reading & writing difficulty. At the end of the course, you will have a greater awareness and practical knowledge of how the computer can be used to help address reading and writing difficulties, such as Dyslexia.
"This is one of the most helpful courses of its type that I have ever attended. I would recommend it to colleagues!" Senior Lecturer, FE College
- 28th March 2008 – British Computer Society, Central London
- 19th May 2008 – Hewlett Packard, Bristol
- 20th June 2008 – AbilityNet, IBM Office, Warwick
- 19th September 2008 – Momentum, Glasgow, Scotland
- 17th October 2008 – Old Trafford, Manchester
- 14th November 2008 – North East Brain Injury Centre, Newcastle
£125 +VAT per delegate and will be held from 10.00am to 16.00pm
£250 + VAT per delegate to include access to e-learning for all courses for one year
For more information about this course download Using ICT to Support People with Dyslexia course information (PDF 477KB).
To book a place on this course courses@abilitynet.org.uk or phone 0800 269545 or download the Using ICT to Support People with Dyslexia Booking Form (231KB).
Successful Computing with a Physical Difficulty
Physical difficulties present the most common cause of computer access problems because they vary from mild tremors to significant dexterity and upper limb disorders. This practical hands-on course will explore specific alternative and adaptive technology for people with physical difficulties using a keyboard or mouse. Following this course you will be able to help those with a physical difficulty obtain access to ICT, thereby improving their independence and helping to unlock their potential. Anyone responsible for ‘reasonable adjustments’ within a work, education or social care environment will benefit from this course.
- 15th February 2008 – AbilityNet, IBM Office, Warwick
- 23rd May 2008 – Old Trafford, Manchester
- 17th October 2008 – Momentum, Glasgow, Scotland
£125 +VAT per delegate and will be held from 10.00am to 16.00pm
£250 + VAT per delegate to include access to all e-learning courses for one year
For more information about this course download Successful Computing with a Physical Difficulty course information (PDF 461KB).
To book a place on this course courses@abilitynet.org.uk or phone 0800 269545 or download the Successful Computing with a Physical Difficulty Booking Form (231KB).
Introducing Accessibility in Microsoft Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007
This course investigates how accessibility has been integrated within the new generation Operating system and Office Applications and is essential for anyone planning to purchase or rollout implementations of these products on 2008. This course will ensure that your planning will comply fully with the requirements of the DDA and health and safety legislation and well as maximising the free features of the system to reduce costs.
The course explains
- Choosing the right solution for you
- Ease of Access Centre
- Using Vista Speech recognition
- Building Blocks within Office
- Windows Media Centre and Internet Explorer 7
Course dates
- 28th March 2008 – North East Brain Injury Centre, Newcastle
- 2nd June 2008 – Hewlett Packard, Bristol
- 6th June 2008 – Momentum, Glasgow, Scotland
- 19th September 2008 – British Computer Society, Central London
£125 + VAT per delegate
£250 + VAT per delegate to include access to all e-learning courses for one year
For more information about this course download Introducing Accessibility in Microsoft Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 course information (PDF 479KB).
To book a place on this course courses@abilitynet.org.uk or phone 0800 269545 or download the Introducing Accessibility in Microsoft Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 Booking Form (231KB).
IT Disability and Leisure
This course offers a real experience of the many ways in which disabled people are using technology to have fun. The course will explore access to reading, music, art and games. Freeware and shareware solutions are identified wherever possible to make the most of the creative impulses of any users.
- 7th April 2008 – Hewlett Packard, Bristol
- 11th July 2008 – Old Trafford, Manchester
- 13th October 2008 – British Computer Society, Central London
£125 + VAT per delegate
£250 + VAT per delegate to include access to e-learning courses for one year
To book a place on this course courses@abilitynet.org.uk or phone 0800 269545 or download the IT Disability and Leisure Booking Form (231KB).
Bespoke Courses
We are happy to put on any of our courses in house for organisations where you are looking for several members of staff to receive training. These courses can be any of the above or we are happy to develop a course specifically tailored to your requirements. We are happy to run half day, full day or twilight short sessions to fit around your commitments. Our courses can be hands on or presentation style.
If you do not see the course date or topic here that you are looking for please contact us on courses@abilitynet.org.uk and we will try to see how we can help. A one day training course for 20 people can cost as little as £60 per person.
To book a place on any of these courses or for more information please email us on courses@abilitynet.org.uk or telephone freephone 0800 269545.
Online Learning www.abilitynettraining.org
AbilityNet offers over 40 online resources designed to support learning and access to techology. Offered in a range of styles and drawing upon the best of resources available across the web these courses provide invaluable introductions and refreshers to those using technology in a range of settings.
Courses include, Vista Accessibility, Mobile phones and disability, ICT Disability and leisure, a range of product focussed courses etc.
Access to all courses £125 + VAT per user per year
To book a place on any of these courses or for more information please email us on courses@abilitynet.org.uk or telephone freephone 0800 269545.
New courses
Dates and locations to be confirmed – email courses@abilitynet.org.uk to register interest
Two Day Masterclass in Effective Assessment with Bill Fine
This two day Masterclass would allow those involved in conducting assessments within organisations to both broaden and deepen their experience and skills. Opportunities to examine different models of assessment and the role of a range of professionals will be examined and discussed. At the end of the course attendees will submit a report for review by Bill for feedback and advice.
June 2008 – Warwick - £450 + VAT
Summer School
AbilityNet has successfully run block courses for people interested in learning the fundamentals of Assistive technologies or broaden their current knowledge
The Summer school would draw from the successful Introduction to Assistive Technologies course delivered in Partnership with Enable Ireland since 2001. If possible the course would be residential allowing interaction amongst the attendees across the full length of the course.
We are seeking expressions of interest in this new venture – register now at courses@abilitynet.org.uk to be amongst the first to receive updated information.
Making the most of Web 2.0
This course builds upon the work done by AbilityNet in utilising Web 2.0 and social networking opportunities to connect people with a disabilities with communities. The course will also look at opportunities to utilise new peer to peer technologies such as bittorrent and VoIP to share information and collaborate.
- Social Networking
- Integrated Communications
- Wiki
Creating resources for people with a Disability with Powerpoint, Clicker and Flash
This ‘hands on’ course will demonstrate how to use framework programmes to create accessible content for people with a disability. The course is targeted at schools, colleges, day centres and social care centres wanting to use technology to maximise learning And Development through locally generated materials.
The course will incorporate:
- Downloadable Resources
- Access to a Community of others developing materials
- A guide to using the software and examples of Good practice
- How to create resources relevant to age and interests of users
Offering materials in alternative formats
With the advent of the DDA, SENDA and Duty to Promote Disability Equality, service providers, employers and businesses will need to make reasonable adjustments to the format of the materials they make available. This course will explore how providers can create low cost copies of their materials to meet the needs of most enquiries.
- Plain and simple English guidance
- Adding Symbols for non readers
- Creating audio versions of documents
- Transferring documents into multiple formats
Demonstration software and trial versions will be available for all attendees to test in their own environment.
The course will also offer guidance on good practice on the design and layout of documents including MS Word, Powerpoint and pdf’s to maximise accessibility and ease of access.
Open Source Solutions for people with a disability
Open source software is often suggested as a means of maximising innovation and reducing costs of assistive technologies and ICT
This course will explore the issues and examples of what is available for people with a disability from the Open source Community and consider issues for implementing open source solutions within organisations
The event will be divided into two sections:
- Open Source Operating systems and Applications including Linux
- Open Source and Windows Assistive Technologies
Supporting people with learning difficulties in the workplace
Many people with learning disabilities are discovering new opportunities to enter employment and maximise their own independence. This course will assist prospective employers to look at the support that technology can offer, enabling people with learning disabilities to take on broader roles and tasks within the organisation.
Content will include:
- The role of technology
- Materials and new formats
- Assistive technologies to aid diversity
AbilityNet run one-day courses of interest to professionals in education, personnel, occupational health, equal opportunities and staff welfare, who wish to help people with all types of disabilities or difficulties such as “RSI”, eye strain, etc. Our courses are run in various venues in the UK throughout the year. We can also tailor-make a course for your organisation and are happy to put on any courses in-house for your organisation.
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