Table of contents
Course Overview
The Access Technology Trainer Certification Course is an instructor-led program for professionals who teach access technology. It is taught by CathyAnne Murtha, who has trained access technology professionals and trained trainers for more than two decades.
This is a comprehensive and challenging course on which trainers can build a career. Each lesson pairs skill instruction with pedagogical reasoning. Students learn:
- What to teach
- When to teach it
- How to teach it
Trainers learn how to engage students and assess progress as they guide students to independence.
How the course is organized
The certification consists of eleven required components completed in sequence. Each component builds on the previous one.
Pedagogy and training technique are integrated throughout the course, not isolated in a single module. For that reason, all eleven components are required, and there are no test-out options.
The eleven training components are:
- Windows
- JAWS
- NVDA
- Edge
- Outlook
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- OneNote
- Class Preparation and Lesson Design
- Class Presentation
This course is founded on concept-driven training. We emphasize concepts, controls, and interface access. Keystrokes are taught in context.
Learning environment
All training is remote in a Zoom classroom. Students train on their own computers at home or in the office.
Course materials are provided in multiple formats, including Word, HTML, audio, and plain text. Tests, worksheets, and reviews are included in every component.
Students receive direct support throughout the certification process and beyond.
Forum access and professional community
Enrollment in the certification course includes limited access to the Access Technology Trainers Forum.
While enrolled, students may observe discussions, review selected materials, and participate in designated areas that support their coursework.
Upon graduation, full forum membership is included as part of our continuing education services.
Graduates retain access to the professional community, monthly training sessions, discussion forums, and shared resources as long as ATI continues to offer continuing education services.
The forum exists to support how and why we teach. It is a professional space for pedagogy, instructional design, and trainer development.
Career outcomes
Graduates of the certification program work across a wide range of settings. Many run assistive technology centers or private training practices. Others teach online, work with rehabilitation agencies, manage university labs, or support large organizations.
Graduates are not trained for a single role. They are trained to teach.
Investment and pacing
Each component is priced at $3,800.
The full certification consists of eleven components.
Total program cost is $41,800.
Student progress reports are submitted after each component. Students must maintain an average score of 80 percent or higher on coursework and assessments to remain enrolled.
Administrative notes
ATI is not accredited and is not affiliated with any government or academic institution. The program stands on the strength of its curriculum and the work of its graduates.
Authorizations are accepted from Departments of Rehabilitation and third-party payers.
Continuing education and support
Graduates receive ongoing support and access to ATI textbooks, training courses, and Forum training materials as part of their continuing education. The field changes constantly. This ensures ATI Certified Trainers are among the best in the world.
Contact Us
If you are interested in teaching access technology and can step up to the challenge of weekly study, discussions, demonstrations, and pedagogical debates, this course may be a good fit.
For enrollment information, or questions, complete this form.