Technology Training
Changes in technology are creating new ways to communicate and transforming how we live and work. At BALANCE for Blind Adults, people with vision loss learn how to use the latest adaptive devices and improve their computer skills. Discover how to work with the Internet and send messages by email.
One-on-One Training
Whether you have never used a computer or are hoping to enhance your use of the smart-phone, our assistive technology instructors offer free customized, one-on-one training to meet your specific needs. Our trainers work with clients to develop the skills necessary to use a range of assistive and mainstream technologies including:
- Screen-readers (JAWS, NVDA, voiceover).
- Screen-magnification software (Zoomtext Magnifier/Reader and Mac Zoom Magnifier Utility.
- Braille Displays.
- Smart Phones.
- Digital book players.
- Windows operating system and basic file management procedures.
- Microsoft Office applications.
Group Classes
In addition to one-on-one training, we offer group classes where clients can come together and learn in a supportive environment. These classes can cover a variety of topics including:
- Troubleshooting your computer.
- iPhone – Beyond Siri.
- GPS navigation.
We will work in the home, at the BALANCE training centre, or in the workplace.
Hadley Technology Training Resources
The Hadley School for the Blind is an online resource that offers workshops/tutorials in assistive technology, and is used by our own instructors as a teaching tool with clients. These workshops/tutorials offer independent learning and skills development opportunities in the 5 following categories: Android, Apple, Computer Skills, Books and Alexa and Zoom. All you need to do is create a free account at the Hadley Home Page to unlock hundreds of hours of content. Below, we have provided a few useful links to get you started and see what Hadley has to offer!
Apple Devices:
Basics of VoiceOver series – iPhone, iPad – VoiceOver On/Off
Basics of VoiceOver series – iPhone, iPad – Home Screen Gestures
Calls, Text and Email series – iPhone, iPad – VoiceOver Phone Calls
Calls, Text and Email series – iPhone, iPad, VoiceOver Text Messages
Siri series – iPhone, iPad – for Phone Calls
Siri series – iPhone, iPad – for Texting
Low Vision Features series – iPhone, iPad – Beginning Zoom Gestures
Low Vision Features series -iPhone, iPad – Adjusting Text Size
Android Devices:
Android Low Vision series -Enlarge Font and Display
Android Low Vision series – High-Contrast Text
Listen with Android Talkback series – Talkback On/Off
Listen with Android Talkback series – Talkback Basics
If you want to learn more about any of these topics, or even start one-on-one technology training, please email info@balancefba.org or call (416) 236-1796. Be sure to also visit our Groups and Events calendar to browse upcoming and current AT offerings!
Please note: Most services and programs at BALANCE are offered at no charge. The cost of these services and programs is funded by the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, through the Toronto Central LHIN. From time to time, a group program (such as our Yoga program) will have a charge associated to help offset costs; for the most part, these costs are defrayed through donations, or in any way we can.