The Seattle Lighthouse is a private, not-for-profit agency providing employment and training opportunities for people who are blind, Deaf-Blind, and blind with other disabilities.

Computer Training Program Statement of Purpose
The Computer Training Program exists to increase and support independence, self-sufficiency, and upward mobility in the workplace of blind adults through appropriate training and access to computer technology.

Computer Training
The Seattle Lighthouse, in conjunction with The Carroll Training Center for the Blind (Newton, MA), offers computer training classes to individuals with visual disabilities. This computer training program is designed as an on-line learning resource for adults who are blind and visually-impaired. The course of study emphasizes computer and assistive technology tools to be used in the workplace. Classes are either instructor-led or self-paced. Carroll Center instructors guide students through the course-work in a distance-learning format using instructor-led chat sessions and online feedback. The computer training course programs focus on Windows applications for use in conjunction with assistive technology.

Computer Training Program Courses
The Seattle Lighthouse Computer Training Program (CTP) offers assessment and training on current assistive technology and computer programs:

• Vocational skills and computer tools
  
  • Microsoft Outlook for email communication
  • Microsoft Word for word processing of professional documents
  • Microsoft Excel for spreadsheet use
  • Microsoft PowerPoint for business presentations
  • TruVision virtual workplace training program for customer service and other vocational skills
  • Hamilton Air virtual workplace training program for customer service and other vocational skills
• Assistive technology used in conjunction with computer programs
  
  • JAWS (Job Access with Speech) screen-reading program
  • ZoomText screen-magnification software
  • Electronic Braille Displays: PowerBraille 40 and PowerBraille 80

Eligibility
Computer training classes are currently offered to Lighthouse employees who are legally blind. Potential students must pass a placement exam to qualify for the program.

Class availability is limited. We encourage applicants to contact the program as early as possible. Students must have prerequisite basic computer skills for computer training. Students must also have supervisor approval before beginning classes.

Funding
The CTP is a community funded program. We rely on private contributions from community foundations, corporations, service organizations, and individuals for financial support of this program.

Information Contact
Amy Koehl
ECS Manager, Training & Employee Support
Phone: (206) 436-2106
TTY: (206) 436-2213
Email: akoehl@seattlelh.org

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