Initiative Description
The Texas Technology Access Program (TTAP) established a Memo of Understanding with the Texas Workforce Commission-Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWC-VRS). Among many collaborative activities is a monthly webinar where TTAP provides technology training and relative Assistive Technology (AT) updates to the TWC-VRS AT Specialists. The Specialists are spread geographically throughout Texas and connected to the 13 TWC Regions. TTAP staff share technology tips and AT training. Additionally, during the initial stages of COVID-19 lock down, agenda time was dedicated to AT supports in a virtual environment. This year, we have also targeted training on specific AT tools that were provided in AT kits to the specialists. The specialists then support Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors working with people with disabilities transition and/or find employment within their regions.
Lessons Learned/Replication
In reviewing the last year, we have decided to continue the webinar-based technical assistance program but with a more discrete focus. We want to add some specifically identified goals and a more specific curriculum for the AT Specialists to complete. In doing this, we want to identify a set of basic and advanced skills for both the AT Specialists and the local Vocational Rehabilitation counselors. The AT specialists' skill sets and backgrounds were across the board. It might have been better to offer some beginner and intermediate sessions. It was helpful that TWC recorded the sessions internally so that specialists could go back and view them later.