Center for Assistive Technology Training
The regional Center for Assistive Technology Training – Southwest (CATT or CATT-Southwest) program is a collaboration between Foundation for Blind Children (FBC), American Printing House for the Blind (APH) and Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind (AIDB). Together, we are committed to empowering individuals with visual impairments through cutting-edge assistive technology training. Experience the impact of our united expertise at CATT.
Our mission is to provide assistive technology training as well as access to assistive technology products to students, educators, service providers, parents, administrators and other community members.
APH fills the gaps in access to assistive technology options. FBC’s CATT team will provide training and other support.
Who We Serve
At CATT, we are dedicated to empowering providers, teachers, and therapists with the highest level of education on Blind and Low Vision Assistive Technology to allow them to effectively educate others in the visually impaired community. Partner with us to harness the power of technology and enhance lives.
Where We Provide Services
CATT proudly serves a six-state region, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. Our trainers travel throughout the region to meet the needs of providers. We specialize in training and educating on assistive technology for the Blind and Low Vision community.
What The Center for Assistive Technology Training Provides
We provide comprehensive training to empower our partners, whether they are Educators, Parents, or Students. Here’s what you can expect:
- We cover all hosting expenses
- Expert Trainers
- Access to our 25 Assistive Products/Software
- Range of engaging training formats… lunch and learns, one-on-one sessions, group training in person or online
- Earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
- And More
Targeted Training: Empowering Proficiency
At the Center for Assistive Technology Training, CATT, we provide targeted and in-depth training in key areas to ensure proficiency and empower our partners. Our training programs cover:
- Braille Displays & Notetakers
- Braille Embossers
- Braille Teaching Tools
- Code/STEM
- Magnifiers
- Screen Access
- Screen Readers
- Access Technology Book
Blind and Low Vision Aids Provided by CATT
Below is a listing of the many products that we provide and provide training for. Be sure to reach out to us if you have any questions about these products and how we may assist you.
Braille Displays/Notetakers
Chameleon
Featuring Text-to-Speech, the Chameleon 20 is the perfect device for learning and reinforcing braille literacy skills. As a portable braille display with local apps, like an editor and library, this device is perfect for improving productivity whether you are in the classroom or the workplace.
Mantis
Keep braille at your fingertips anytime, anywhere, with the Mantis™ Q40: a Bluetooth® keyboard and 40-cell refreshable braille display.
Monarch
The Monarch is a next-generation braille display that can be used to read text books and full-sized graphics, all on one surface.
This product is yet to be released. We will update as availability and more information on this exciting technology becomes available.
Braille Embossers
PageBlaster
The tractor-fed design provides smooth paper handling and produces double sided interpoint braille. Use PageBlaster to emboss PRN files from APH’s Tactile Graphics Image Library or create your own using the included Firebird tactile graphics software.
PixBlaster
PixBlaster easily produces double-sided interpoint braille with smooth, rounded dots for improved readability along with industry-leading, high-quality tactile graphics with seven variable dot heights for color representation. Connect to Wi-Fi to translate and emboss documents on the fly from your computer or mobile device using the included PIXie box.
Braille Teaching Tools
Polly
Polly is an electronic Wi-Fi enabled braille learning device that teaches reading, typing, writing, vocabulary, and spelling in both contracted and uncontracted braille using a gamified approach. With immediate feedback, incorporation of music, and competitive games, Polly puts the fun into learning braille! This device includes multiple input methods, a speaker for instruction and feedback, and an online teacher portal that allows remote access and progress monitoring for educators/parents. Polly contains both a 6-dot braille keyboard and an electronic slate to accommodate the preference of the user.
Code/STEM
Code Jumper
Code Jumper™ assists students in learning computer coding and programming skills through a unique, physical system.
Code Quest
CodeQuest is a FREE, interactive and accessible app for iPad and iPhone mobile digital device that teaches preschool to early-elementary age players coding, logic, and orientation skills.
Code & Go Mouse
Coding is easy with Colby! The Accessible Code & Go Mouse provides a hands-on introduction to coding concepts and tactile graphics as students program Colby the mouse to race through the maze toward the cheese. The race is on to build hands-on coding skills with Colby, the programmable robot mouse!
Snap Circuits Jr.
The Snap Circuits Jr. Access Kit turns Elenco’s commercial product into an inclusive learning opportunity. The kit teaches kids about circuits, current, resistance, switches, motors and other electronics concepts. The brightly colored parts are labeled in braille, so they’re accessible to students who are blind or have low vision. Just like the commercial version, the durable parts can be easily assembled on a grid into projects that make sounds, light up and more.
Snapino: Access Kit
Learn about coding and electronics with Snapino!
RC Snap Rover
Learn all about electronics with the RC Snap Rover® Access Kit.
BRIC: Structures
Build an understanding of construction and electronics, one brick at a time!
Magnifiers
Juno
Magnify on-the-go with this powerful, 7-inch LCD touchscreen handheld video magnifier with Optical Character Recognition (OCR).
Jupiter
The Jupiter Portable Magnifier is a sleek and compact device that helps users of all ages, who are visually impaired, see the world in high definition.
MATT Connect
The MATT (Magnifier and Tablet Together) Connect is a compact all-in-one magnifier, distance viewer, and educational Android tablet.
Video Mag HD
The Video Mag HD is a durable and kid-friendly, handheld video magnifier.
Screen Access & Readers
JAWS
JAWS allows computers to become accessible through text-to-speech and braille support.
Zoom Text
Make computers accessible for low-vision users with Zoom Text.
Specific Needs Products
Mini-Lite Box & Materials
The LED Mini-Lite Box is an all-inclusive person-centered learning tool for students who are visually impaired. Students with CVI and other disabilities can benefit from the Light Box Materials kits and commercially available mounts that can be attached to the LED Mini.
Select Switch
A battery-powered switch with function control features that enable disabled individuals to communicate and control battery-operated appliances, toys, and devices.
Joy Player
Enjoy jamming to your favorite music or listening to your favorite audiobook on the easy-to-load, switch-activated Joy Player.
Access Technology Book
Access Technology for Blind & Low Vision Accessibility
Access Technology for Blind and Low Vision Accessibility emphasizes opportunities for independence, leadership, and timely access to information for people who are blind or visually impaired. This follow up to the 2008 edition gives an overview of currently available technologies and tools, and presents a new process for technology evaluation that ensures every student is supported to build the toolbox they need to break down barriers to access.
For more information, please contact our
CATT Program Coordinator | Niraj Parikh
Direct: 602.337.8241
Or email us using the form below.
Training on Demand
In addition to our CATT Program, we offer a variety of instructional and educational videos. Here you will find all of our Tech Tips videos on our Youtube channel.
