New AUCD Resource Helps Programs Leverage Technology to Support Training

Source: Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD)

Technology can be a powerful tool for training healthcare professionals across multiple locations, enabling the exchange of ideas and practices that can benefit communities – including those that have been traditionally underserved. Many programs/centers have expressed a desire to build their knowledge base in this area, thereby increasing their capacity to engage non-traditional trainees and those outside major metropolitan centers.

To support these efforts, the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) Interdisciplinary Technical Assistance Center on Autism and Developmental Disabilities (ITAC) contracted with an independent education consultant with expertise that includes universal design for learning (UDL), instructional and assistive technology, social media in education, and web access. The result is a package of resources to support the increased use and effectiveness of distance learning technologies across the AUCD network and in the healthcare field more broadly.

This package includes a series of tables that break down the types of distance learning tools programs/centers are (or could potentially be) using across the spectrum of training activities. Users can access information about the software, tools, platforms, etc. which support specific functionalities, such as: ease of use, typical costs, reported use and accessibility features.