The Wayside Computer Skills Development Therapy
is a
unique and innovative program designed to
teach
our
residents basic computer skills. This
amazing
program
has opened up a whole new
world to our
residents who are
now able to be a
part of the
information superhighway and
communicate over the
internet. Students begin
by learning
basic computer
skills and advance
onto learning how to
use email,
search the
internet, create cards, practice
typing
skills,
and research their favorite topics. Each
student
is given an Individualized Computer
Plan by their
instructor, Tim Caskey, which
spells out their goals,
objectives, timeline and
outcomes for each
student's program of study. This program has allowed our
residents
to learn new skills while building their
self-esteem. Many
students are now able to communicate via email to their family and classmates. "The most gratifying aspect of teaching these exceptional individuals is the look on their faces when they see messages in their Yahoo "In Box" from family, Wayside staff and classmates," notes Tim.
The program, started in 2001, has grown from six students to over 25 students with a waiting list. Efforts are currently underway to expand the class so at least eight to ten more residents can participate. Classes are currently held three times a week on computers outfitted with special keyboards, touch screens and roller ball mice so that each student is able to fully use the computer station, all of which were graciously donated by foundations. The program has been a success from the start and has been a wonderful addition to the many services that Our Lady of the Wayside offers to its residents.
The students even have their own web page, www.geocities.com/waysidecomped, where they display their work, along with pictures and newspaper articles on the program.
This program, while critical to our resident's development and quality of life, is not covered by Medicaid reimbursement and is funded solely by caring donors, organizations and foundations.
The program, started in 2001, has grown from six students to over 25 students with a waiting list. Efforts are currently underway to expand the class so at least eight to ten more residents can participate. Classes are currently held three times a week on computers outfitted with special keyboards, touch screens and roller ball mice so that each student is able to fully use the computer station, all of which were graciously donated by foundations. The program has been a success from the start and has been a wonderful addition to the many services that Our Lady of the Wayside offers to its residents.
The students even have their own web page, www.geocities.com/waysidecomped, where they display their work, along with pictures and newspaper articles on the program.
This program, while critical to our resident's development and quality of life, is not covered by Medicaid reimbursement and is funded solely by caring donors, organizations and foundations.
