AAACT Tech Training Program

"The lack of technicians trained to assess the needs of employees with disabilities, purchase, install the equipment, train the employees with disabilities and provide ongoing support is hampering the ability of employees with disabilities to fully access the information networks. The result for employees with disabilities is that the government's electronic network becomes a barrier." Treasury Board 1999 05 06

Through the support of Treasury Board Secretariat and the Employment Equity Positive Measures Program, Environment Canada's Accessibility, Accommodations and Adaptive Computer Technology AAACT Program has created a multi-dimensional instructional program for Information Technology professionals within the Public Service. Recognizing the unique expertise of AAACT, the Employment Equity Positive Measures Program (EEPMP) funded the development of a course to train technicians in supporting adaptive computer devices. Information Technology support staff throughout government departments have the opportunity to be instructed on how to effectively support and implement Adaptive Computer Technology in their own departments.

International Recognition 

Environment Canada's Accessibility, Accommodations and Adaptive Computer Technology Program has actually gained international recognition for the unique services provided to persons with disabilities. In 1998, the AAACT program was a nominee for the SAP Stevie Wonder role model organization of the year award for an outstanding organization for the integration of the blind or visually impaired into its workforce.

Program Part 1 - On-line Introduction to AAACT

Participants will engage in a custom designed on-line computer course administered by Dr. Norman Coombs of the Rochester Institute of Technology. This interactive introduction to AAACT takes approximately four weeks during which participants are electronically introduced to several disability issues and the basics of AAACT. Each week, participants should dedicate six hours to complete the assigned on-line lessons. Successful completion of the four-week on-line component is a pre-requisite to Part 2 of the program.

Program Part 2 - Hands-On Adaptive Technology

An elaborate multi-platform laboratory has been set up for participants to become familiar with the technical issues surrounding AAACT implementation and support. This two-week component involves lectures, demonstrations, site visits, case studies, and hands-on exposure to the various tools. During the two weeks, participants will produce a document outlining how AAACT could be used in their departments.

Participant Criteria

The program is designed specifically for computer professionals employed within the Public Service. Participants are to have at least two years of microcomputer and system support experience. Familiarity with their department's technical environment is essential. Participants should have a CS designation and some programming experience in a Windows environment.