VIDBE-Q Volume 68 Issue 4
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and function as critical complements to knowing where and how to access
resources for training and information (Siu, 2015).
Overcoming the Remaining Problems of Practice
The Technology and Training Gap: Overview of the Center for Assistive
Technology Training (CATT)
As funded through the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind (AIDB) and
supported by the APH, the Center for Assistive Technology Training (CATT)
originated at AIDB in 2019. The mission of the CATT program is to provide
assistive technology training to teachers of blind/low vision children, utilizing a
"train the trainer" model, while also providing support and training for other
professionals working with blind or low vision children as well as
parents/caregivers of a child who is blind or has low vision, including those with
additional disabilities. Whereas funding for the CATT program is secured in the
federal congressional budget via AIDB, all assistive technology options are
provided by APH. It is important to note that the CATT program is meant to
support professionals and parents/caregivers in the United States (U.S.) and
territories; it is distinctly separate from the existing federal quota system (hosted
by APH), which provides funding for APH products including technology to blind
and low vision students. At the time of publication, the CATT program covers the
provision and training of 23 assistive technology products from APH, including
