Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey was about to launch its long-awaited Technology Learning Lab when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the nonprofit to temporarily close its locations. Nine students had signed up for the six-week pilot to learn the Microsoft Windows 10 operating system for desktops and laptops. They would use JAWS, a screen reader, or Fusion, a combination screen reader and text magnifier.
VLANJ put the Technology Learning Lab on hold, and introduced Tech Talks, a monthly webinar that covers a different technology topic each session. The webinar is funded by a major grant from The Provident Bank Foundation.
In Tech Talks, instructors Susanne Sytsma and Christina Brino demonstrate a technology and answer participants’ questions during the hourlong class. For example, the 15 people who participated in the first Tech Talks were shown how to use the Zoom video conferencing app for computers, iPhones and iPads. “There’s a lot to learn, especially on computers because it involves many key strokes,” Brino said. During a second session in May, participants discussed grocery store shopping apps. Zoom has become an important platform for VLANJ. The nonprofit in early April began offering virtual versions of its Beyond Sight wellness classes, support groups, and an apps club using Zoom to keep participants active and connected.
Future Tech Talks topics include navigating Facebook; using the Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) service; an introduction to Fusion; and Amazon Basics. The free sessions are held the fourth Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. They are open to all with vision loss. To register, or if you have questions, send a message to BeyondSight@vlanj.org. Registrants gain access to the VLANJ Tech Talks Facebook group.
Not yet knowing when locations can reopen, VLANJ now plans to roll out a virtual version of the Technology Learning Lab, VLANJ Executive Director Kris Marino said. One student is currently enrolled in a test run. The Technology Learning Lab will teach participants computer skills that could help them gain employment, Marino said. The initiative has attracted financial support from The Provident Bank Foundation, The William G. and Helen C. Hoffman Foundation, and The Hyde and Watson Foundation. While VLANJ participants have embraced the virtual class offerings, “we’re all missing Vision Loss Alliance and being together,” Sytsma said.