IN-SIGHT - Assistive Technology Teacher

About IN-SIGHT

Founded in 1925 as the Rhode Island Association for the Blind, IN-SIGHT's mission is to inspire confidence and build skills that help people who are visually impaired and blind to thrive and succeed.

Position Background

The Tech Connect Specialist is a member of the vision rehabilitation team and works with people individually and in small groups to evaluate their assistive technology needs, recommend specific technology solutions that may help them reach their independent living goals, and provide training and support to ensure that the client can use the technology to its full potential.

The Tech Connect Specialist works with clients at the agency, in their homes, schools, workplaces, and in the community.

The Tech Connect Specialist initially assesses individual clients to determine their current abilities, knowledge, goals, and tools. A plan is then developed to assist the client in acquiring new tools and providing comprehensive training on their proper use. These tools may include smartphones, tablets, smart speakers, computers, laptops, video magnifiers, and smart glasses. A primary focus is teaching clients how to successfully navigate their devices using Voice Over (iOS), Talk Back (Android), and other accessibility features. Training will also focus on apps and devices that use artificial intelligence to help people successfully navigate their environments.

The Director of Vision Rehabilitation supervises the Tech Connect Specialist and works as part of a team with a vision rehabilitation therapist, program assistant, and an optometrist.

As IN-SIGHT has several clients who are quite adept at using assistive technology, the Tech Connect Specialist also harnesses that enthusiasm and knowledge through small group workshops, a tech user learning group, and peer mentoring.

Essential Functions

• Determines the nature of the client's needs by interviewing the client and assessing their independent living needs and their interest in a variety of assistive technology solutions.

• Establishes a course of action by exploring options and setting goals with the client.

• Provides individual instruction to clients on using various assistive technology solutions properly.

• Facilitates small group workshops focused on topics related to assistive technology including new and existing solutions.

• Maintains relationships with assistive technology companies and dealers to stay informed about new solutions and create opportunities for clients to experience the latest solutions.

• With consent from the client, offer support and resources for their families, caregivers, and friends who may be supporting the client with their assistive technology learning and use.

• Maintains a record of client interactions, goals, and progress.

Educational Requirements:

• Minimum BS Degree.

• At least 5 years of experience in vision rehabilitation, technology training, general teaching in a school environment, or a related field.

• Experience using and teaching people accessibility features and apps.

Required Skills and Traits:

• Must competently use Microsoft Office, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; web browsers; and other technology as necessary.

• Must be committed to the mission, vision, policies, and values of IN-SIGHT.

• Ability to understand and balance priorities with strong attention to detail.

• Dependability, flexibility, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a dynamic, collaborative team environment.

• Ability to represent the agency with high integrity and professionalism, adhere to agency policies, and support management decisions positively and professionally.

• Must work with minimal supervision and be self-motivated.

• Must be able to handle complex and sensitive situations with diplomacy and discretion.

• Must understand and respect confidentiality, be assertive, able to think strategically, prioritize, focus, and be client-oriented.

Mental, Physical, and Communications Demands:

• Access to reliable transportation for participation in client training and activities outside of the building is required.

• Must have strong written and spoken English skills. Fluency in Spanish is desirable as well but not a requirement.

• Must perform various tasks that require sitting, standing, and occasionally lifting to 25 pounds.