Assistive Technology Training

Assistive technology (AT) training for people with low vision teaches individuals how to use specialized devices, software, and digital tools that improve access to information, communication, education, and daily tasks. The goal is to help people maximize their remaining vision and maintain independence at home, school, work, and in the community.

1. Assessment and Selection of Technology

Training usually begins with an assistive technology assessment conducted by a low-vision specialist, vision rehabilitation therapist, or assistive technology instructor.

The assessment determines:

• Level of remaining vision

• Types of visual difficulties (e.g., reading small print, glare sensitivity)

• Tasks the person wants to perform (reading, computer use, navigation)

• Best devices or software to support those tasks

Common causes of low vision that may require AT include conditions such as Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma, and Retinitis Pigmentosa.

2. Training in Screen Magnification Software

People with low vision often use screen magnification programs that enlarge text and images on computers.

Examples include:

• ZoomText

• MAGic Screen Magnification

Training includes:

• Adjusting magnification levels

• Changing color contrast and brightness

• Using cursor enhancements and focus tracking

• Navigating documents and websites with magnification

Users also learn strategies to avoid losing orientation on a magnified screen.

3. Screen Reader and Audio Technology Training

Some individuals combine magnification with speech output software.

Examples include:

• JAWS Screen Reader (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=6)

• NVDA (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=7)

Training focuses on:

• Listening to synthesized speech output

• Using keyboard commands to navigate applications

• Reading documents, emails, and web pages through audio feedback

This helps reduce visual fatigue and increases reading efficiency.

4. Smartphone and Tablet Accessibility Training

Modern smartphones contain powerful accessibility features that can support people with low vision.

Common devices and tools include:

• Apple iPhone accessibility features such as Magnifier, Zoom, and VoiceOver

• Android Accessibility Suite (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=8)

Training includes:

• Adjusting font size and display settings

• Using the phone’s camera as a magnifier

• Reading text with text-to-speech tools

• Using apps for object recognition, currency identification, and navigation.

Examples of helpful apps include:

• Seeing AI

• Be My Eyes

5. Electronic Magnification Devices

Assistive technology training also includes the use of electronic magnifiers.

These devices may include:

• Desktop video magnifiers (CCTV systems)

• Portable digital magnifiers

• Wearable vision devices

Training focuses on:

• Adjusting magnification levels

• Changing color contrast modes

• Positioning reading materials correctly

• Moving text smoothly under the camera.

6. Computer and Digital Literacy Skills

Users learn how to perform everyday computer tasks with assistive technology.

Training may include:

• Typing and keyboard shortcuts

• Word processing and document editing

• Internet browsing

• Email communication

• File management
  
  

These skills are especially important for students and employees with low vision.

7. Integration into Daily Activities

Assistive technology training emphasizes applying devices to real-life tasks, such as:

• Reading books, mail, and labels

• Managing finances and online banking

• Completing school assignments

• Workplace tasks

• Accessing digital entertainment and news.

​​​​​​​The goal is to make technology a practical tool for independence.
​​​​​​​

8. Ongoing Support and Skill Development

Because technology changes rapidly, training often includes:

• Follow-up sessions to adjust settings

• Learning updates to software and devices

• Troubleshooting technical issues

• Building confidence with new tools.