New Employment Training Guide
By Bryen, Diane Nelson, PhD; AAC-RERC eNews, Vol. 1, No. 2Publication Date: January 2005
Article discusses the Augmentative Communication Employment Training and Supports (ACETS) program, which was created by the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University and focuses on improving employment outcomes for people who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Three guiding principles are the focus of the ACETS program: (1) inclusion in workplace culture, (2) developing a wide range of job-related skills and experience, and (3) the support of individual goals. The ACETS program focuses on a wide range of job-related skills, as participants learn the fundamentals of a job search, with a direct focus on aspects unique to people who use AAC, such as using a personal assistant and dealing with transportation. Information technology skills are an integral part of the ACETS program, and lessons designed to improve these skills are emphasized. All class sessions include time in a computer lab, in which participants learn to use the Internet to increase their marketability, independence, and productivity. A system of online forms and charts are used to track students’ progress, while participants can stay in touch with one another and their professors through e-mail, list serves, and instant messaging programs.
Published by: Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Communication Enhancement (AAC-RERC) (Website:http://www.aac-rerc.com)
Link to text: http://www.imakenews.com/aac-rerc/e_article000344189.cfm?x=b11,0,w
