Photo of man using headphone and a laptop with the screen dark, text to the right of that photo reads "Assistive Technology for BEP Operators"

 Assistive Technology for BEP Operators

About the Program

The BEP Assistive Technology Training course is designed to equip Business Enterprise Program (BEP) operators with essential technology skills to enhance business efficiency and accessibility. This comprehensive course provides foundational training in assistive technology tools, focusing on key business applications such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and the Square POS system. Clients taking this course will receive a combination of one-on-one instruction and guided learning through the Canvas LMS to ensure mastery of critical business tools.

Upon completion, students will gain confidence in desktop navigation, file management, and internet use while learning how to optimize assistive technology for business operations. These skills are vital for managing sales, tracking records, and staying connected in today’s digital marketplace.

Assessment

Before enrolling in the BEP Assistive Technology Training, each client must complete a pre-requisite assessment. This evaluation measures assistive technology proficiency, written and oral communication skills, and academic readiness in reading comprehension, writing, and math at a 12th-grade level. The results will help determine the client’s readiness for the course and identify any areas that may require additional support. Clients who do not pass the assessment will be referred to the Assistive Technology Fundamentals course for foundational training.

Assistive Technology and Business Tools

A strong foundation in assistive technology is essential for any blind entrepreneur operating a business. This course will help students develop proficiency in the following key areas:

Desktop Navigation: Learn to navigate a Windows computer efficiently using screen reader technology.

File Management: Organize and manage files using File Explorer to maintain essential business documents.

Microsoft Word: Create, edit, and format professional documents for business communication and record-keeping.

Microsoft Excel: Use formulas and functions to track sales, manage inventory, and analyze business data.

Internet Navigation: Develop strong web navigation skills to access online business tools and resources.

Square POS System: Learn to operate the Square point-of-sale system with a screen reader for seamless sales processing and transaction tracking.

By mastering these tools, students will be prepared to run their businesses effectively while leveraging assistive technology to improve accessibility and productivity.