MCB/DDS Train the Trainer Project
for Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity
About
Train the Trainer Project for Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity is a collaborative program presented by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB). The goals of the Project are to strengthen outreach re: Human Guide (formerly known as Sighted Guide) and Vision Loss Sensitivity to co-workers at the agency where the trainer is employed:
Train the Trainer Project for Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity is a collaborative program presented by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB). The goals of the Project are to strengthen outreach re: Human Guide (formerly known as Sighted Guide) and Vision Loss Sensitivity to co-workers at the agency where the trainer is employed:
- Colleague to colleague training for new staff and/or
- Refresher training for existing supervisors and staff
How it Works
Selected trainers will spend a 6 hour session (inclusive of lunch and breaks) with our team of Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists. Activities will include lecture and sitting, walking and being guided while wearing a blindfold. At the end of the session* each trainer will receive all of the materials, including a training agenda, “Let’s Walk Together” video, handouts, occluders, attendance forms, etc. needed to conduct small group in-services on Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity. *Each candidate must meet specific requirements, including the passing of a multiple choice test, in order to receive the above materials, and the certificate of completion.
Selected trainers will spend a 6 hour session (inclusive of lunch and breaks) with our team of Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists. Activities will include lecture and sitting, walking and being guided while wearing a blindfold. At the end of the session* each trainer will receive all of the materials, including a training agenda, “Let’s Walk Together” video, handouts, occluders, attendance forms, etc. needed to conduct small group in-services on Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity. *Each candidate must meet specific requirements, including the passing of a multiple choice test, in order to receive the above materials, and the certificate of completion.
Collaboration & Follow–Up
Trainers will receive ongoing support, including an invitation to attend an annual meeting with fellow Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity (HGVLS) trainers from across each DDS Region.
Trainers will receive ongoing support, including an invitation to attend an annual meeting with fellow Human Guide & Vision Loss Sensitivity (HGVLS) trainers from across each DDS Region.
Benefits for All
Individuals with Vision Loss:
Individuals with Vision Loss:
- Enhance personal safety and quality of life by working with staff and caregivers sensitive to unique needs of living with a vision loss.
- Increase the skill set of employees regarding working with individuals who have vision loss.
- Increase personal knowledge regarding Human Guide Technique and Vision Loss Sensitivity;
- Enhance presentation skills;
- Become part of a Regional collaborative team;
- Gain opportunity to support co-workers in a unique way.
Requirements
Candidates for the Train the Trainer Project must agree to the following:
Candidates for the Train the Trainer Project must agree to the following:
- Attend a 6 hour session (inclusive of lunch and breaks) that includes lecture, blindfold experience, and multiple choice test.
- Wear appropriate footwear, comfortable clothing, and dress for the weather as there is an outdoor portion of the training.
- Conduct 45-60 minute HGVLS trainings at his/her agency according to agency training needs. An annual “refresher” HGVLS training is recommended for all staff at an agency.
- Prepare all necessary paperwork: sign in sheets, evaluation forms prior to each training and send copies of all sign-in sheets and evaluation forms to MCB/DDS Partnership Project contact after each HGVLS training conducted at his/her agency.
- Notify MCB/DDS contact if the Trainer leaves the agency.
Training Locations and Dates
- Southeast Region: April 2019
- Central West: May 2019
- Northeast Region: June 2019
- Metro Region: September 2019
How to Apply
1. Download the application. Applications available 6-8 weeks prior to training dates. See Training Locations and Dates above.
2. Please fill the application out completely.
3. Mail, email, or fax as indicated on the application by .
4. You will receive confirmation via email of either your seat OR a notice that the session is full*.
* Please Note: Space is limited to the first 10 applications.
Approval from both an employee’s direct supervisor and agency director is required prior to applying.
1. Download the application. Applications available 6-8 weeks prior to training dates. See Training Locations and Dates above.
2. Please fill the application out completely.
3. Mail, email, or fax as indicated on the application by .
4. You will receive confirmation via email of either your seat OR a notice that the session is full*.
* Please Note: Space is limited to the first 10 applications.
Approval from both an employee’s direct supervisor and agency director is required prior to applying.
More Details about Training Days
Refreshments:
Refreshments:
- Light refreshments and water will be provided.
- Lunch will not be provided. Please do bring your own lunch.
- Please wear closed toe supportive shoes.
- Please wear comfortable clothes.
- Please bring hat/rain jacket as needed for weather. We will be working outside as well as indoors.
- Time spent under a blindfold is required throughout the day.
Questions
Please feel free to contact:
Lisa DiBonaventura, MA, COMS
Statewide Director for Vision & Vision Loss Services, DDS
Lisa.DiBonaventura@state.ma.us
Please feel free to contact:
Lisa DiBonaventura, MA, COMS
Statewide Director for Vision & Vision Loss Services, DDS
Lisa.DiBonaventura@state.ma.us
