Michael was referred to The Center for Microsoft Office certification and employment. He presented with three disabilities: hearing impaired, unable to speak, and low vision. This unique combination of disabilities challenged the Centers’ staff to create a personal communications strategy for his instruction.
First, our ASL interpreter translated the Microsoft Office lessons given by our NYSED licensed instructor, Ed Pinkowski. In researching the ASL signs corresponding to Microsofts technical language (signingsavvy.com), we could not find any signs for Microsoft Word much less for the technical terms, so our interpreter spelled out each letter.
Michael’s sight is restricted so a Ruby magnifier and Zoom software were used so he could better read the screen (freedomscientific.com). An enlarged 22-inch monitor and color-coded keyboard also aided his visibility.
While Michael is learning at a moderate pace compared to our other students, his memory is excellent. Now that we have a viable communications strategy, we expect him to earn his Microsoft Word certification in two to three months. We were unable to identify a government agency for support, so the Center gave Michael a full scholarship. The Center also donated keyboarding and practice software so Michael is able to work at home.
Cathy, our job developer, is confident that Michael will be qualified for a part-time office job near his home when he finishes his training.
We are grateful to Michael for challenging The Center to serve more folks with these needs.