Accessible Step-by-Step Instructions for Speech Technology with Windows
Project ASSIST was a 10+ year grant project that began in October of 1996 and ended in March of 2007. Project ASSIST's mission was to offer high-quality computer training materials written specifically for individuals who are blind, visually impaired or deaf-blind. The training materials addressed all levels of users, from beginners to advanced users. There were numerous tutorials, keyboard guides and diagrams, and course packets developed.
Although the Project ASSIST grant has ended and no current or future tutorials are being developed, the existing tutorials and training materials are still available for purchase. These materials can be used by individuals who want to learn popular computer programs on their own or by professional trainers for their organization's computer training program.
The unique tutorials use a keyboard only approach to programs like Word, Internet Explorer, Excel, and more. The explanations and instructions include specific keystrokes, verbal or refreshable Braille feedback, and strategies for your screen reader. The step-by-step exercises give you hands-on experience using your screen reader with the program.
Most of the tutorials are written for those using speech output; however, ASSIST does offer some tutorials for those who use a refreshable Braille display with Braille only output.About the Tutorials.
List of Available Tutorials.
How to Order a Tutorial.
The keyboard guides list the keystrokes and steps to perform common tasks. The keyboard guides are excellent sources for quick reference information. (Note: Most of the keyboard guides are written for older versions of the Office software.)
Tactile Keyboard Diagrams.
We are pleased to announce the availability of Tactile Keyboard Diagrams. This
set of five tactile diagrams is an excellent reference and training tool. The
diagrams are tactile representations of a standard 104 key keyboard. The first
diagram is of the full keyboard, with each section labeled. The remaining four
diagrams are "close ups" of sections of the keyboard with each key
labeled. Each diagram is accompanied by a brief description of its contents. The Tactile Keyboard Diagrams can be purchased for
$20 per set.
How to Order a Keyboard Guide or Tactile Keyboard
Diagram.
Are you interested in achieving Microsoft Office Specialist certification? Project ASSIST offers tutorials, course materials, and test taking tips to help you prepare for the Office Specialist certification exams on your own. Choose the Microsoft Office Specialist Prep - Self-Study link for more information.
Course packets for Microsoft Office 2002 courses are available. The course packets contain materials that accompany the Microsoft Office 2002 tutorials, including assignments, additional exercises, review questions, key terms, and quizzes. They are perfect for trainers who want to teach a Microsoft Office 2002 course. These packets are also good resources for individuals who prefer self-study and want to thoroughly prepare for an Office Specialist certification exam. Choose one of these links for details and order information:
Word 2002 Course Packet and Tutorial Info.
Word 2002 - Advanced Users Course Packet and Tutorial Info.
Excel 2002 Course Packet and Tutorial Info.
Excel 2002 - Advanced Users Course Packet and Tutorial Info.
Access 2002 Course Packet and Tutorial Info.
Outlook 2002 Course Packet and
Tutorial Info.
PowerPoint 2002 Course Packet and Tutorial
Info.
Are you an assistive technology trainer looking for example training materials for popular Windows applications and/or assistive technologies? If so, choose the list of computer training modules link to view a list of FREE training modules available for download. The modules were developed by trainers that participated in the ASSIST Online Train the Trainer workshop. Unfortunately, the workshop is no longer being offered but feel free to peruse the materials for something you may be able to adapt and use.
Here's how you can contact us.
Phone: (515) 281-1357 - Monday through Friday, 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. Central Time.
Address:
Project ASSIST With Windows
Iowa Department for the Blind
524 Fourth Street
Des Moines, IA 50309-2364
Project ASSIST With Windows
was based at the Iowa Department for the Blind.
Iowa Department for the Blind
Computer Training Page.
Iowa Department for the Blind Home Page.