Step Five: Technology for Your Studies

The latest technology equipment can offer additional support to your studies. And it could bridge the gap of accessibility to learning should you be unable to, or not require support staff assistance.

Knowing what technology is out there, how it can help you and how to use it can be a game-changer; empowering you to learn in a way which is easier, more productive and works for you. We have created some great resources to help you make the most of technology to super-charge your studies, with our Technology in Education section.

Technology options in mainstream college may be limited due to funding restrictions and limits. And there may be equipment that has been used previously by other students which is then issued to you. Despite this, there are many great built-in features available on devices such as laptops, smartphones and tablets which could make a massive difference to how you access your learning. Check out our guides to making your computer and smartphone/tablet accessible for education to take your tech game to the next level!

Where You Can Find More Support with Technology

Ability Net and Blind in Business. Both offer advice on moving into education or work including assessments, equipment supply, ICT training and employment services.

Click here for information on Ability Net
Click here for information on Blind in Business

Queen Alexandra College (QAC) Sight Village. Their annual events provide a great opportunity to learn more and try out a wide range of equipment and assistive technology first hand.

RNIB. They provide all the latest information and updates on the technology that is available to support you throughout your studies. RNIB also has their technology and independent learning series, where students share experiences of how technology has supported their studies.

Top Tips

  • Mainstream technology ownership. Assistive technology in mainstream colleges will almost always remain as owned by the college. This means you may have to return the equipment at a certain point, and be liable for its condition.
  • New technology adaptions. Stay posted for the latest technology developments across the sector and explore how they can best support you with your studies.
  • Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP) consideration. Your EHCP may require that you have access to specific assistive technology so keep this in mind throughout your assessment and its review.
  • Attend QAC Sight Village events. QAC Sight Village is a great opportunity to try out assistive technology in person so you can find out which technology can support you throughout your educational journey.

Check out the other steps...

Step One: Your Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP)

Find out all the information you need for completing a Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP) to support your studies at mainstream college.

Find out more about 'Step One: Your Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP)'

Step Two: Applying for Mainstream Colleges

Discover how you can put the right preparations in place to begin your mainstream college search and find the best place to study as a blind or partially sighted student.

Find out more about 'Step Two: Applying for Mainstream Colleges'

Step Three: Getting the Right Support in Place

Explore what support may be available to you within mainstream college as a blind or partially sighted student, and how you can access it.

Find out more about 'Step Three: Getting the Right Support in Place'

Step Four: Funding Available

Learn what funding options may be available to you when studying at mainstream college as a blind or partially sighted student.

Find out more about 'Step Four: Funding Available'
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