COURSES




6 WEEK COURSES

picture of a student laughing at what she has done on her computer

This isn't scary - its FUN!

On Thursdays and Fridays we run part-time courses at our base at Colchester Institute. Classes last for 3 hours and students come for one session per week, initially for 6 weeks. Students have different backgrounds, disabilities and aspirations, yet each one is pursuing his or her own individual course. We can have up to 10 individual courses going on in the room at one time! Since there is no formal classroom tuition, there is no schedule to follow, no worry about getting left behind. In fact there is no time pressure on students at all. We appreciate that many people, in particular with brain injury or neurological conditions, may need to revise and re-learn the same thing week after week. In a class of 10 students, there are always at least 4 tutors, assistants or volunteers to provide help.

QUALIFICATIONS

People taking our courses may or may not wish to have a formal qualification as a result. We offer a range of courses through the Open College Network. While equivalent to NVQs, they are very simple to follow, do not involve any formal examinations and provide evidence that a student has achieved a level of competence in one aspect of computer use. Some of the modules are in the standard IT activities like using the Internet, Word Processing etc. But some have been specially created for our client group. So if a blind person needs to learn to use a screen reader before being able to word process, it is only right that he or she receives official recognition of being able to use it. Evidence of learning is provided in the form of print-outs or sometimes in a video clip of what is going on on the client's screen. It is a completely painless process. It provides proof for a potential employer, a source of satisfaction for the client (or even showing off to grandchildren!) and provides a structure to the student's course. Courses run throughout the year and students can start at any time (subject to vacancies).

THE SOCIAL DIMENSION

GEORGE

George was a skilled plumber and manual draftsman when he lost his sight totally, and much of his dexterity and mobility. He had never used a keyboard before, let alone a computer. Using software developed by us, George learned keyboarding skills, then word processing. He became interested in home accounts so started on spreadsheets. Assessment and teaching go hand in hand at OTT. It emerged that what he really wanted to do was Computer Aided Design. By this time, some sight had returned. We worked with him using free CAD tools, but he is now taking CAD courses at the college (with our support), and speaking to prospective employers.

One feature of the sessions is the tea-break, when students can stop for a welcome drink and biscuit and also chat to each other about what they are doing, what works for them and anything else. Somehow the conversation usually seems to get around to food!

COSTS

Currently, the costs for 6 weeks of sessions, 3 hours per week is £50.

IF YOU WISH TO JOIN A COURSE...

... just call us on 01206 769973
... or email us on info@opptech.org.uk.