Adaptive Technology Instructor
The mission of the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults is to enable each person who is deaf-blind to live and work in his or her community of choice. Authorized by an Act of Congress in 1967, HKNC is the only organization of its kind—providing training and resources exclusively to people age 16 and over who have combined vision and hearing loss. Students travel from across the country to our headquarters in Sands Point, New York, for on-campus training in assistive technology, vocational services, orientation and mobility, communication and independent living, and our regional offices bring HKNC resources to communities throughout the United States. Employment at HKNC is a "one-of-a-kind" experience and at HKNC, we seek employees who have a strong work ethic, strive for excellence, enjoy a challenge, and are highly motivated and creative.
We currently have an exciting career opportunity available to join the HKNC team as Instructor of Adaptive Technology. The Instructor plans lessons and provides skills training in content areas of Adaptive Technology curriculum based on the finding of the evaluation and as determined by student’s personal needs and preferences, employing appropriate techniques materials and communication preferences in the training program. Also, instructs NY state consumers in the use of adaptive technology and telecommunication/distance communication equipment. This portion Instruction is community-based.
Adaptive technology includes hardware and software such as: screen magnification, related software applications, braille adaptive equipment and telecommunications equipment.
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
- Plans lessons and provides telecommunication and skills training in content areas of Adaptive Technology curriculum based on the findings of the assessment and as determined by consumer’s personal needs and preferences.
- Employs appropriate techniques, materials and communication preferences. Investigates and researches new adaptive technology.
- Keeps abreast of national trends and innovations. Gains knowledge and skill on operating and instructing others in the current products, programs and equipment utilized by individuals who are deaf-blind.
- Participates in department meetings and scheduled inter-departmental team meetings, and general staff meetings.
- Accompanies and serves as a guide and/or facilitates communication for students and professional staff members when assigned. To accomplish this, it may be required to use personal vehicle on occasion.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree required with emphasis in issues related to the education of blind and visually impaired, or Special Education degree or a degree in Computer Science. Knowledge of personal computers, hardware components, current technology, educational software and adaptive equipment for visually impaired learners (i.e., refreshable Braille displays, screen readers, screen magnification). Knowledge of Braille, sign language, and other methods of communication preferred by individuals who are deaf-blind is preferred.