Education and Training--ETL Workshops, Seminars, and Classes

The Enabling Technologies Laboratory offers a number of seminars that discuss the philosophies and concepts of enabling technology. Some of the seminar topics include the following:

* An Introduction to the Region IV/ETL Consortium
        This seminar provides a brief history of the ETL/Region IV collaboration as well as the need to leverage Region resources with respect to enabling and assistive technology needs. Videotapes and slides are used to demonstrate the application of ETL devices at Region IV facilities. The basic concepts of poka-yoke (error-proofing), design for assembly, and lean/agile assembly techniques are presented.

* The Elements of a Good Design
        The intent of this seminar is to educate the consumer as to what constitutes a good design for consumer products. The design principles are presented and illustrated by example and counter-example to form the basis for device and product evaluations. These principles are particularly important when evaluating enabling technologies.

* Kaizen Concepts and Applications
        This seminar presents Kaizen concepts and provides examples of these applications in industrial, special education, and vocational rehabilitation settings. the applications demonstrate the ability of Kaizen techniques to create jobs and enhance the job performance of individuals with disabilities.

* Job Creation and Performance Enhancement for Individuals with Physical and/or Cognitive Disabilities using Poka-Yoke Techniques
         This seminar provides a definition of poka-yoke, error-proofing techniques, and the philosophy behind their development. Numerous examples are presented and discussed in order to illustrate assembly operations, packaging, sorting, weighing, and other industry related applications.

*  Lean/Agile Devices: A Region IV/ETL-General Motors Workshop
        At this workshop participants actually design and build products using Creform technology. Participants are required to submit sketches or a written description of their ideas two weeks before the workshop. These proposed devices must address a need within the participant's organization, and this need must be documented with the original sketch or device description. A mobile cart for severely physically disabled children's seating orthoses, mobile and adjustable height medial carts, mobile therapist stools, and conveyor belt systems are examples of devices designed and built at one-day workshops.

* Class: ECE 610/OT 662 (Enabling Technology)
        This class is a cross-listed, four-credit hour class that is offered during the Winter semester to individuals working in fields that deal with people who are physically or cognitively challenged. The course views enabling technology in the broadest sense. It addresses the technology needs of individuals across all life stages--birth to death. The primary focus will be on the individual, the individual's needs, and how the individual can use technology to meet his or her goals. The class includes lectures, exercises, and panel discussions. There are opportunities to visit and tour facilities which exemplify the principles and technologies that are presented in class.

Seminars are offered to Region IV Consortium Members as part of the membership services, and non-Consortium members will be charged a fee to cover expenses.