TFL Team Meeting - 10/20/2020

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TFL Mission

  • Increase access to and acquisition of assistive technology devices and services so Georgians of all ages and disabilities can live, learn, work and play independently in communities of their choice.

Team Meeting Expectations

1. All TFL team meetings are no/light device meetings. This means using your device professionally, minimally, as an accommodation, or for emergencies.

2. Be mindful of the time you are given for your updates.

3. Provide thoughtful and comprehensive updates to the team. This time is the opportunity for everyone to learn about TFL projects and activities.


Agenda

TFL Director Updates (Carolyn)

  • Check In -
  • TFL - CR funds released in Late October
  • Projects:
    • Georgia Division of Aging (DAS) - CARES Act
    • GaDOE FY20 & FY 21 - Co-PI Gina
    • GVRA Contract FY 21 - In Discussions with GT Leadership - Co-PI Martha & Zerrin
    • CDC Contract (9 Mths) - Co-PIs Liz, Johan & Maureen
    • HHS DRRP - Aging Well ACCESS - 5 Yr. $2.5 Million
    • 3 Yr HHS DRRP - AT Database - $1.5 Million
    • NEW - Wireless RERC - $35K
    • ATAP/AT3 - $8K

CDC/F Trainings & Activities (Category 3) (Carolyn)

  • CDC Category 3! Review & Discuss. How would You like to help?
    • COVID-19: Apps for Promoting Independence and Safety
      • Format: Webinar
      • Draft Description:
      • Life looks different for many as we collectively navigate through this COVID-19 crisis. Staying safe, healthy and physically distanced is more important now than ever. Apps, extensions and the accessibility features built into various technology platforms can help people stay safe. Come learn and share valuable information about apps for connecting, shopping, navigating and even relaxing. This interactive webinar will leave you full of knowledge and resources for navigating COVID-19.
      • Presenters: Tools for Life – Danny Housley and Ciara Montes
      • Organizers & Content Creation: Danny
      • Tentative Date(s) depending upon approval: November 11, 2020; 2-3 PM EST
    • COVID-19: Sanitization of Personal Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
      • Format: Webinar
      • Draft Description:
      • Sanitizing durable medical equipment is a top priority for individuals with mobility disabilities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This webinar will share up-to-date CDC guidance and resources that go beyond the everyday cleaning process and discuss what it means to optimize infection prevention. While COVID-19 is more dangerous because we lack treatments and infected persons do not always manifest symptoms, other viruses (e.g., norovirus) persist on solid surfaces much longer. By understanding more about COVID-19 transmission and adopting best practice guidance for cleaning and disinfection, individuals who use DME have another important way of protecting themselves from infection.
    • Presenters:
      • FODAC
      • Project MEND
      • REquipment or AT3
    • Facilitators: Carolyn Phillips and Liz Persaud
      • Organizer & Content Creation: Trish!
      • Tentative Date(s) depending upon approval: November 18, 2020; 2-3 PM EST
    • COVID-19 Glossary of ASL Signs
      • Format(s): Video
      • DRAFT Video Description:
      • As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, so does American Sign Language (ASL). This video will demonstrate COVID-19 ASL signs to more effectively communicate vital information about COVID-19.
      • Target Audience:
      • This is an introductory-intermediate level video intended for anyone interested in learning more about COVID-19 ASL Signs.
      • Presenters: Deaf Link ASL Interpreters
      • Facilitator(s): Maureen Linden & Sheryl Ballenger
      • Content Development: Norah Sinclair
      • Tentative Date(s) of Release depending upon approval: December 16, 2020
      • Method of Delivery:
    • This video will be produced in ASL with captioning and guidance to go along with the video. It will be designed with UDL principles and hosted on an accessible platform.
    • A Closer Look: Face Masks and People with Disabilities
      • Format: Webinar
      • Draft Description:
      • COVID-19 brought with it a need for everyone to follow individual safety measures including the important guidance of wearing face masks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing a face mask or facial covering in public places/retail establishments (e.g., grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) where it is difficult to maintain at least six feet of physical distance (social distancing) from others. In addition to the CDC recommendations, many state and local governments have required or recommended the use of a face mask or facial covering in indoor and outdoor public spaces. This webinar will outline the CDC guidelines, and explore solutions to challenges some people with disabilities may experience in attempting to follow the guidance. Some disabilities may make it difficult or impossible to wear a face mask and some individuals with mobility/movement disorders may have difficulty putting on, adjusting, and/or removing a face mask without great difficulty or without assistance. Participants will receive tips, resources and guidance regarding face masks as we collectively navigate this challenging time.
      • Presenters:
    • Autism Speaks or AUCD
    • Deaf Link or NDBA
    • MDA and/or
    • NFB or ACB
      • Facilitators: Liz, Danny or Carolyn
      • Tentative Date(s) depending upon approval: Dec. 9, 2020; 2-3 PM EST
    • A Closer Look: Mental Health and Resilience within the Disability Community during COVID-19
      • Format: Webinar
      • DRAFT Description:
      • The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have an active and direct impact on our lives which can affect our mental health on various levels. Within the disability community, there have emerged some unique challenges and surprising outcomes. Many people are experiencing heightened anxiety locally and around the world, social and physical disconnection from others, and ongoing concerns as the unknown unfolds. Interestingly, many people within the disability community have reported they are experiencing increased inclusion and more connectedness than before. This webinar will explore, through the lens of the disability community, various factors for understanding the mental health and resilience impacts of individuals with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants will receive tips, resources and guidance for increasing mental health and building resilience as we collectively navigate this challenging time.
      • Presenters:
    • AUCD, CLD, etc.
    • NAMI, DBHDD, etc.
    • NCIL or APRIL
      • Facilitator: Carolyn Phillips and Danny Housley
      • Organizer: Danny
      • Content Creator: Trish
      • Tentative Date(s) depending upon approval: Dec. 16, 2020; 2-3 PM EST
    • First-hand Perspectives of COVID-19’s Impact on Individuals with Disabilities and Loved Ones
      • Format: Podcast
      • Podcast DRAFT Idea:
      • Individuals with disabilities who have contracted and survived COVID-19 will share their first-hand experiences and lessons learned. Listeners will learn tangible tips about wearing masks, hand washing, staying connected while physically distancing, navigating shopping safely and how to clean during COVID-19. Steps will be shared on how to advocate for safety during COVID-19 in working with personal care attendants and direct support providers. Presenters will also share guidance on how to be safe, yet connected, in your friendships and relationships. Participants will receive COVID-19 tips, resources and guidance directly from survivors as we collectively navigate through this pandemic.
      • Presenters: Several individuals have been identified
      • Facilitator: Carolyn, Sam or John
      • Tentative Date(s) depending upon approval: January 13, 2021; 2-3 PM EST
    • First-Hand Perspectives of COVID-19’s Impact on Individuals with Disabilities and Loved
      • Format: Webinar
      • Webinar DRAFT Idea:
      • Individuals with disabilities who have contracted COVID-19 will share their first-hand experiences and lessons learned. Participants will learn tangible tips about staying connected while physically distancing, navigating shopping safely and how to clean during COVID-19. There will also be demonstrations on wearing masks, hand washing and cleaning. Steps will be shared on how to advocate for safety during COVID-19 in working with personal care attendants and direct support providers. Presenters will also share guidance on how to be safe in your friendships and relationships. Participants will receive COVID-19 tips, resources and guidance directly from survivors as we collectively navigate through this pandemic.
      • Presenters: Several individuals have been identified.
      • Facilitator: Carolyn, Sam or John
      • Tentative Date(s) depending upon approval: February 3, 2021; 2-3 PM EST
    • A Closer Look: Guidance for Business and Employers Considering the Needs of People with Disabilities during COVID-19
      • Format: Webinar Panel Discussion
      • DRAFT Description:
      • As businesses continue to operate and/or reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many questions about how businesses can continue operations safely while considering the needs of employees and patrons with disabilities. Join us for a panel discussion with disability leaders, business owners, consultants and professionals as we explore issues and share strategies, solutions and resources.
    • Presenters:
      • Disability:IN
      • EY or PWC
      • Publix or Walgreens
      • Facilitator: Liz or Carolyn
      • Tentative Date(s) depending upon approval: December 16, 2020, 2-3 PM EST; OR January 20, 2021, 2-3 PM EST; OR February 10, 2021, 2-3 PM EST
    • COVID-19 Simplified Text 2-Minute Videos
      • Format: Simplified Text Scripts for 2-minute videos
      • DRAFT Video Description:
      • These 2-minute videos will demonstrate information found in the CDC guidance related to COVID-19 to more effectively communicate vital information to individuals with limited literacy skills who would benefit from Simplified Text (at grade level 3 or below).
      • Target Audience:
      • This is an introductory-intermediate level video intended for anyone interested in learning more about COVID-19 and for individuals who would benefit from information in Simplified Text.
      • Presenters:  ? A user/presenter??
      • Facilitators: Carolyn Phillips, Karen Erickson
      • Content Development: Norah Sinclair
      • Tentative Date(s) of release, depending upon approval: February 17, 2021
    • Making Social Media Accessible for People with Disabilities
      • Formats: Podcast, Brief PDF Tip Sheet
      • DRAFT Podcast Description:
      • A skilled user of social media with accessibility expertise will demonstrate how to make shared information more accessible on frequently used platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok. Based on needs assessments, these platforms may have a greater likelihood of being used to share CDC guidance related to COVID-19 to more effectively communicate vital information to individuals with disabilities.
      • Target Audience:
      • This medium targets user audiences who are less likely to use the mainstream internet to seek protective healthcare guidance.
      • Method of Delivery:
      • This podcast will demonstrate how accessibility principles can be applied to platforms designed for brief messaging or posting. It will be designed with UDL principles and hosted on an accessible platform. A related Tip Sheet will be posted on the CIDI website. This podcast will be xx minutes long.
      • Presenter(s):  ??PwD??
      • Facilitator: Sam Peters
      • Tentative Date(s) of Release, depending upon approval: Dec. 18, 2020

TFL Research Updates (Ben S., Zerrin & Carolyn)

Assistive Technology Outcomes & Benefits (ATOB) Journal

  • ATOB Vol. 15 - Article on DBHDD Project has been conditionally accepted!
    • Some revision is required
    • May need assistance from the co-authors to get these changes addressed.

What Users of AT Wish Developers Knew...

  • Interest from "GogyUp" - the makers of Snap Reader - in possible replication of "What AT Users Wish.." study
    • SBIR-NSF Stage 1 grant - March `21 submission contemplated
    • Thanks to Ciara for her help in making this connection
  • Presentations have been accepted at these virtual conferences:
    • GA Ed. Tech Conference (Nov) What Users of AT Wish Teachers Knew..
    • ATIA (Feb) What Users of AT Wish Developers Knew..

Work ACCESS Project (Decision Tree Project) Content

  • Just completed "Telework" - webinar Oct 14th
  • Ben has submitted final draft of "Communication" branch.
  • Ben, Sheryl Ballanger are beginning 2 new branches:
    • Supports for Remote Meeting Participation (Tentative Focus Group Oct 29)
    • Communication in workplace for Deaf/ASL users
  • Other members of the team wrapping up first round of tasks on "Reading & Writing":
    • proofing, short descriptions, validation, tagging & mapping to decision tree, etc.)

Work ACCESS Programming

  • Functioning model (skeleton) is out on a server for preliminary review.
  • More robust version coming later this month.
  • Annabel is helping with visual design for interface

Mastery of Assistive Technology

  • MoAT Small Bets project is completing analysis on first round of data collection.
    • Round 2 is being designed and is expected to be launched by the end of October.
  • Research Team is contemplating submission of a NIDILRR FIP proposal in December.
    • Would commence July or September of 2021 - when Small Bets grant ends
    • Apply the framework and the tool developed in MoAT Small Bets project


CDC

  • Needs Assessment for Braille is complete
    • John has conducted the interviews
    • Zerrin has analyzed the data and developed the report
  • Needs Assessment for Minimizing Text Complexity (MTC) is complete
    • Ben & Ciara have conducted the interviews
    • Zerrin has analyzed the data and developed the report
  • Message Testing for Braille is complete
    • John has conducted the interviews
    • Zerrin has analyzed the data and developed the report
  • Message Testing for MTC is under way
    • Ben & Ciara have conducted interviews
    • Subject Matter Expert panel has been launched
    • Expect to wrap up next week


USG BOR Survey

  • Survey for the 2019-2020 has been disseminated
  • Had a group meeting with Dr.Sheeks to discuss ideas for revising the survey & platform
  • We will present at ACLD meeting

TFL State Leadership Activities - (Liz)

Data Reminder: Don't forget to include your presentations, trainings, public awareness, education, etc. in the database each month.

Updates

  • Tools for Life
    • TFL Policy and Procedures - Liz, Sam
    • Keeping wiki updated and organized - Tori
    • TFL Website - Sam, Shaina
    • Working on training plan to host more virtually
    • GATE 2020 update - Sam
    • NDEAM presentation for the ACEC (American Council of Engineering Companies of Georgia) Georgia Inclusion & Diversity Task Force this Wednesday at 11 - Tori & Liz
  • CDC
    • Accessible Materials and Culturally Relevant Messages for Individuals with Disabilities
    • Carolyn PI, Johan, Maureen and Liz Co-PI, Sam Project Management
      • Dissemination - project messaging, microsite, presentations/webinars
  • Social Media
    • Send articles, webinars, videos, general information, etc. to post and share with TFL followers
    • Like, Follow, and Share our pages with your networks and others
  • ATAP (AT3)
    • Exploring 2021 contract and deliverables - CP & Liz
      • AT Reuse Activities (PIOC)
      • Social Isolation/Connectedness Coalition (ACL/n4a) - Liz, Rachel, Martha, Sal
  • TechSAge 2 RERC - Training and Outreach
    • Carolyn and Liz
    • Design Competition - Carolyn & Danny lead, Liz support
    • Check out the RERC TechSAge website to learn more.
  • Webinars
    • Working on expanding our webinars
      • Updating CRC's and CEUs for live and archived webinars - Liz & Tori
    • Wired Wednesdays
    • ASK series
    • More webinar offerings from TFL?
  • Wireless RERC - Training and TA
    • Carolyn, Liz, Sam, Raminta
    • Outreach & Public Awareness ongoing (Sam lead)
    • Submitting to the Technology and Disability Policy Highlights (TDPH)
  • Work ACCESS - Decision Tree/AT Software KnowledgeBase
    • Carolyn and Liz - Telework
      • focus groups, training

TFL K-12 Initiatives and Updates (Gina)

  • K-12 Contract FY 20 Updates
    • Portal
      • 268 Users registered representing:
        • 146 local districts
        • 10 Charter Schools
        • 4 State Schools
        • 7 Georgia Network for Educational and Therapeutic Supports (GNETS)
        • Total of 167 Local Education Agencies (LEA’s) Represented
  • Software
    • 105 districts signed and operational
    • Software in 103 districts; 287,987 licenses provisioned 377,057
  • Consultation Requests (3 new requests submitted came in since last meeting; 6 this month)
    • loan requests
    • on-going; multiple meetings & support
  • EdTrade

TFL Direct AT Services - AT Access Updates (Martha)

  • Device Demo 10/1-19- 9/30/20 All Centers 481
  • Device Demos 10/1/19 - 9/30/20 TFL 79
  • Device Loans 10/1/19- Present All Centers 236
  • Device Loans 10/1/19- Present TFL 91
  • Device Reutilization 3361


  • Wired Wednesdays- Danny will be presenting at the next one on emergency preparedness Still need people to sign up!
  • DAS Cares Act Funding- Working with Carolyn on the subcontract. Still working with Yolanda on how to get the 39 individuals for equipment and then the 16 for AT Assessments
  • Working with Yolanda and Karen on the first training in November- will present TFL 101 and some AT for social isolation. Should be 1 hour.
  • Those in the Text Complexity group have been working on items.
  • Working on DOE Consultations- have completed 2 on AT Access and they went really well. Clarke Co will be returning to face-to-face in November and will put in for loans. Have sent heads up email to Annabell
  • Working with Gina on new AT Equipment and ordering that equipment
  • Working with the CDC on focus groups and MTC of articles
  • Sal- update on Social Isolation Friday meetings

TFL AT Acquisition Updates (Danny)

Device Loan

  1. I got a chance to do some hands on with the Orcam Read
  2. Other equipment was returned including the Vision Buddy, Trifecta and MyEye 2

Presentations

  1. UGA Today
  2. APRIL next Thursday
  3. GSU next Friday
  4. Completed one on physical access with a work focus
  5. Working on a presentation for safety

Other Updates

  1. Working with GT HR on an accommodation for an employee

AccessGA Initiatives and Updates (John)

  • AccessGA
    • DHS – Consent Order addressing Section 504/ADA compliance
      • Web Evaluation
      • Technical assistance
    • Disability Awareness & Sensitivity Training
      • Office of Pardons and Paroles
      • Georgia Dept. of Corrections
      • Dept. of Community Supervision
      • Attorney General’s Office
      • Dept. of Juvenile Justice


  • ADA Conference moved to 1st quarter of 2020


  • Office of Pardons and Paroles
    • An accessibility review of recently updated policies and procedures
    • Web accessibility evaluation
    • Follow-up technical assistance


  • Georgia ADA Conference
    • Scheduled for 1st quarter of 2020
    • One presentation (Overview of a11y related to online meeting/webinar platforms)


  • Virginia Commonwealth University
    • beginning work on deliverables


  • CDC Foundation
    • ongoing UX testing/Compliance and best practice reviews
    • Overview of web accessibility evaluation


  • The NORA Project
    • The Nora Project’s award-winning school programming allows students to explore disability, adaptation, and friendship in exciting and innovative ways.


  • Emory University (Rollins School of Public Health)
    • Web a11y evaluation and technical assistance review of application

TFL & ADA 30th Celebration

  • October
    • Employment
      • Tool Kit: National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

What can YOU do? Campaign for Disability Employment (CDE) Resources: Employment from the ADA National Network Podcasts & Resources: ADA Live! by Topic - employment (ADA Title I) ADA Live! Episode 73: Do You Want a Job or a Career?

    • Reflections on National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)
    • More ways to listen:
      • SoundCloud ADA Live! Episode 73
      • Accessible Captioning & Interactive Transcript for ADA Live! Episode 73
      • Interactive Transcript for ADA Live! Episode 73
    • Hashtags:
  1. NDEAM #RightTalentRightNow #ThanksToTheADA
  2. WhatCanYouDo #ChooseToInclude #Disability #ADA
  • November
    • Veterans
      • "Honor all who served - In times of war - In times of peace"
    • Publications & Fact Sheets
  • Veterans - ADA Fact Sheets & Publications from the ADA National Network
  • Veterans Resources from the Southeast ADA Center
  • Veterans & Families Resource List from ADA Live!
  • ADA Live! Episodes by Topic - veterans
    • Social Media
  1. HONORINGVETS – Show your Support on Twitter
    • VAntage Point Blog from U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs
    • Greenlight a Vet Program and help show that every Veteran has a story
  • December
    • Shaping a Universal Future
      • National ADA Symposium - Save the Date! Registration opens in January.
  • Resources: International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD)
  • United Nations (UN)– International Day of Persons with Disabilities
  • Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)
    • Sharing ADA Stories
  • StoryCorps & Disability Visibility Project
  • StoryCorps MobileBooth Tour
    • ADA Legacy Project - Preserve. Celebrate. Educate.

Open Enrollment begins October 21st!

  • Open Enrollment for 2021 Benefits selection begins tomorrow October 21st and ends November 6th. This is an active enrollment - meaning you must log into the system and confirm your benefits even if no changes are being made. Additionally, you will need to certify you and your dependent(s) (age 18 and older) tobacco use status. Tobacco users will be charged $100 per month, per person for using tobacco products and system automatically defaults to tobacco user.


    • Virtual Benefits Fair - USG Benefits Fair – October 19th – October 23rd. This event will include live events daily & Vendor 1:1 chats between 10am – 2p. (This event replaces GT Benefits Fair) - https://usg.vfairs.com/


Action Items & Follow Up

  1. Send in your Success Stories and ensure your TFL Data is submitted.
  2. Complete your Open Enrollment for 2021
  3. Send CP your ideas for get togethers
  4. TH - Create and Share your Social Media posting plan for TFL's 30th & ADA's 30th.