Training programme
We, at Insight, try to make it easier for visually challenged persons to use computers and computer enabled Information and Communication Technology (ICT). For that we use the latest technology and applications exclusively developed for the visually challenged.
There are several software, hardware and applications that claim to be useful for visually challenged people. They are costly and have restricted use. Therefore only a few people have access to them.
This is where free operating systems and software become significant.
Free software gives everybody the right to use it for free, copy, distribute, modify and study it with little or no restrictions.
The Insight training
We use free operating systems and applications for the training process, thus making it accessible to all sections of the society. Also the entire training is offered free of charge.
Operating system
We instruct the participants in the Ubuntu, operating system. Ubuntu is a community developed linux-based operating system that is perfect for laptops, desktops and servers. It contains all the applications you need - a web browser, presentation, document and spreadsheet software, instant messaging and much more. Ubuntu is and always will be free of charge. It doesn’t have any licensing fees.
Assistive technology
We use the tool called as Orca. Orca is a free, open source, flexible, extensible, and powerful assistive technology for people with visual impairments. Orca eases computer navigation by reading out whatever appears on the monitor and whatever the user types. With the help of a speaker and headphone, the visually challenged person can thus use the computer competently.
Course Details
Visually disabled people of all age groups who have an aptitude for learning can attend the course. The topics on which training is provided is detailed in the table below.
|
Sl. No |
Description |
Total hours |
| 1. | Keyboard familiarization | 20 |
| 2. | Familiarizing with Operating System | 15 |
| 3. | Familiarizing ORCA | 10 |
| 4. | Using Open Office Word Processor | 20 |
| 5. | Using Open Office Spread sheet | 15 |
| 6. | Internet Learning | 30 |
| 7. | Using Utilities (CD Writing, Music, Messenger etc.) | 20 |
| 8. | Operating System Installation and trouble shooting | 10 |
| TOTAL | 140 |
The Pilot Training Programme
Under the pilot programme at the Insight Centre, Vellayambalam, Thiruvananthapuram, around 50 visually challenged persons have completed the course so far. Now preparations are underway for the project roll out to other districts in Kerala. Akshaya centers will act as training centres. Highly qualified and competent Master Trainers who are also visually challenged, will train the participants. A number of Master Trainers have already been trained from different parts of the State.