VIDBE-Q Volume 68 Issue 4
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are blind and low vision. CATT trainers work directly with people within the
region by offering a variety of intensive training sessions and conference
workshops. Ancillary support for professional development includes the provision
of continuing education units and sponsorship of regional events and national
conferences. To meet the mission of deploying a train-the-trainer model, the CATT
also supports others to develop their own training resources and host local training
activities.
Because of the regional focus of each CATT program, there is great
potential in how the CATT program can encourage broader development of
communities of practice (COPs) (Wenger, 2000) around assistive technology and
accessible information. For example, CATT regional programs outreach to local
chapters of professional organizations such as the Association of the Education and
Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AERBVI) and carry out
community-building efforts that are specific to the resources within each region.
Efforts may differ depending on varying cultural contexts. Here are examples of
how each regional CATT program supports COPs around technology:
