Regional Technology Classes
Jaws and Word Processing for Teachers and Parents

Who is this class for?

This is a course for teachers (VI and general education), paraprofessionals and parents who are planning to teach a student with a visual impairment to use Jaws with a word processor (especially Microsoft Word). This course will also be useful for adults who are supporting students who are utilizing computers in classroom work.

What do you need to know about computers before taking this class?

You should be able to type and know the keyboard. You should also be able to find, open and save files in a program such as Microsoft Word. It will be helpful if you have a basic understanding of the computer and use it daily in either your professional or personal life.

What is the purpose of this class?

This course has two primary purposes. The first is to teach you the basics of using Jaws with a word processor. The second purpose is to give you tools that will support you in teaching students. When you leave this class you will have a curriculum specifically designed to teach someone Microsoft Word using Jaws for Windows. At the end of this class you will have the materials to teach the first six lessons in the curriculum. An advanced class is planned to support you in teaching the remainder of the lessons in the curriculum.

What resources will you have to take home at the end of the class?

• Teaching Microsoft Word Using Jaws for Windows from DeWitt & Associates
• Handouts & Tip sheets: Overview of Jaws, Setting up Microsoft Word for use with Jaws, Jaws Troubleshooting and Help Tips, Keyboarding: An Important Skill, and others.
• Tactile graphics to be used with students.

What is the length of this class?

This class is 1 ½ days in length. Your class can either take the entire class on back-to-back days or you may choose to finish the final ½ day about a week following the first session (full day).

Who can I contact if I have questions following the class?

Once you complete the class you will be added to a listserv. This listserv will be a format to share successes and challenges with others who have taken this class. Instructors of this class will also monitor the listserv and provide answers and tips to questions posted. Only people who have completed this class will be added to this listserv.

How many people are needed to schedule a class in my area?

Four people need to register for classes in Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne ISDs. In all other areas of the state there is a minimum requirement of two people to register for the class.

How much does this class cost?

The class is $75 for teachers, paraprofessionals and other school personnel. The cost for parents is $37.50. Scholarships are available for family members who meet the financial need criteria. Please see our scholarship information page for more information. The cost includes all materials, 7.9 hours of instruction, and lunch on the full-day of class.

How do I get a class scheduled in my area?

If you have the minimum number of participants required to hold the class complete the interest form. If you would like a class in your area and do not have the minimum number please complete the interest form and LIO staff will look for other people in your area to take the class.

Where will the class be held?

Once we have the minimum number of participants who have registered for a class in your area staff from MSB-LIO will make arrangements for a room in your area for the class. All equipment is provided so all the room needs is tables, chairs and electricity.

Are Michigan State Board of Education CEU’s or ACVREP Credits available?

SBE CEU's will be available upon request. When SBE CEUs are requested there will be a delay in providing the class (about 45 days). This delay is required by the Department of Education to process the request for CEU's.

ACVREP Credits will also be available upon request. There will be approximately a 30 day delay in providing the class due to the time needed to process the request for the credits. There will be a fee of $15.00, in addition to your registration for the ACVREP Credits.

For more information

For more information, contact msdb-outreach@michigan.gov or call (810) 257-1403.