TechAbility Conference 2023 Summary
Thank you to all those who attended and contributed to the TechAbility conference. The feedback has been great and there was a wonderful atmosphere on the day. There were popular sessions on AI, accessible music, switch access and original research.
It was difficult to sum up the range of sessions and stalls, but given the variety of experience the theme became Progress not Perfection, recognising that we are all on different journeys and have much to learn. This was our first year running the conversation sessions at the end of the day, we hope they were able to meet the expressed need of more time to talk to each other about key issues.
It’s never to early to start requesting what you would like to see for next year and if you would like to contribute. You are what makes these events work.
If you’d like to see a review, we have put together a short video to capture the day.
Peer Exchange Week – 22nd – 25th January 2024
Over the four days Natspec will be hosting sessions on topical subjects of interest to specialist college staff in different job roles.
TechAbility are hosting a session on Thursday the 25th of January at 1pm until 2:15pm entitled Assistive Technology – Improving provision where the TechAbility Champions will take you through the changes they have made to improve their provision through Assistive Technology. You can expect topics such as Literacy support, communication, independence and transition in this session and we have gained permission from Natspec for all Karten members to have access to this event.
You’ll need to book if you want to attend on the Natspec Peer Exchange Week event page.
HSBC Launch Digital Accessibility Training and Apprenticeships
In an effort to improve accessibility HSBC is sharing its digital accessibility procedures with 1000 staff at other companies.
They have also launched an accessibility apprenticeship programme for disabled and neurodiverse apprentices to work at HSBC, upon completion they will be offered a full-time permanent job.
This is great news as it will improve understanding of accessibility at a range of companies while improving the representation of people with disabilities at HSBC – in turn leading to more accessible banking.
Upcoming Webinars
Ten (more!) mobile apps we love
11 December 2023 13:00 – 13:30
Based on the popularity of our previous mobile apps webinar, TechAbility have created another packed full of useful apps in just 20 minutes.
You can use apps to be creative, find learning resources, improve language pronunciation and set students tasks using videos that they can respond to in kind. How about a tool that can answer questions using AI that includes pictures and sources? Or something to support mental health techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy? You can even use your Android phone to make calls, speak phrases and activate environmental controls at the press of a customisable button.
We will provide options for Android and Apple devices wherever possible with the majority being free or at least having free features. We will have time for questions after the session and would love to hear from you about your favourite apps.
Upcoming Training
Access the world through a mobile phone
18 January 2024
This course will give staff the knowledge to help learners discover accessibility features and apps on phones, which in turn should reduce people’s requirement for human support to support basic skills.
Access the world through a mobile phone: more information and booking
10 practical steps to include more learners
1 February 2024
Join one of our Assistive Technologists to discuss ten quick fire topics covering a wide range of assistive hardware, software and techniques.
Assistive Technology for physical access
13 February 2024
This workshop introduces delegates to technologies which will enable learners to access desktop and laptop computers, tablets and phones.
Assistive Technology for physical access: more information and booking
Built-in access
22 February 2024
Computers, tablets and phones have a wealth of accessibility options already built into the operating systems. All teaching and learning support staff should have an awareness of these features so they can remove barriers for learners.
Supporting learners’ Assistive Technology at all stages of their college journey
14 March 2024
This course focusses on key stages in a learner’s journey and highlights the appropriate support required for effective outcomes.
Supporting learners’ Assistive Technology at all stages of their college journey: more information and booking
Article meta data
Clicking on any of the links in this section will take you to other articles that have been tagged in the same category.
- Featured in the Karten December 2023 Newsletter
- This article is listed in the following subject areas: TechAbility