9.1 Introduction to Notetakers (3 to 6 hours)

Introduce notetakers using the following steps.

  1. Explain the architecture of the notetaker software (linear structure or Windows type).
  2. Provide instruction on the external features of the device including ports, jacks, and chargers.
  3. Provide instruction on changing speech parameters.
  4. Provide instruction on accessing and using the help menus.
  5. Provide instruction on file management including
    • creating, opening, and deleting files and folders; and
    • moving through a list of files and folders and renaming them.
  6. Provide instruction on reading in a file including
    • reading by word, sentence, and line; and
    • using spell mode.
  7. Provide instruction on writing functions including
    • entering and deleting text, and
    • using find and replace.
  8. Provide practice locating the cursor.
  9. For notetakers with refreshable braille display, provide instruction on locating the braille cursor.
  10. Provide practice reading a file using the braille display.
  11. Provide instruction on using the cursor routing keys.
  12. Provide instruction on how to navigate the device menus such as pull-down, file, and status menus.

9.2 Performance Objectives and Measurements

Measure the following during the introduction to notetakers.

  1. The consumer can locate the charger, jacks, and ports on the notetaker — Yes or No.
  2. The consumer can change the rate, pitch, and frequency of speech — Yes or No.
  3. The consumer can create, delete, and rename files and folders — Yes or No.
  4. The consumer can read, write, and edit text within a file — Yes or No.
  5. The consumer can locate the braille cursor on notetakers with a braille display, if applicable — Yes or No.
  6. The consumer can use the braille display to “pan” the display and read by word, line, and paragraph — Yes or No.
  7. The consumer can use the cursor routing keys — Yes or No.
  8. The consumer can navigate notetaker menus — Yes or No.

9.3 Advanced Functions of Notetakers (2 to 4 hours)

Teach the following during advanced notetaker training.

  1. Review the previous lesson (Introduction to Notetakers).
  2. Provide instruction on using removable media with the notetaker including
    • saving to and retrieving from removable media;
    • backing up files to removable media; and
    • saving files in braille, text, or other format supported by the notetaker.
  3. If applicable, provide instruction on connecting the notetaker to other devices including
    • uploading and downloading files from a computer, and
    • sending files to a printer.
  4. Provide instruction on miscellaneous functions of the notetaker including
    • setting the time and date,
    • using the calculator,
    • using the address book for contact information, and
    • formatting documents.

9.4 Performance Objectives and Measurements

Measure the following during advanced notetaker training.

  1. The consumer can save to and retrieve from alternative or removable media — Yes or No.
  2. The consumer can connect and operate the notetaker effectively with a printer and a computer — Yes or No.
  3. The consumer can set the date and time, operate the calculator, and enter contact information into the address book — Yes or No.
  4. The consumer can format documents — Yes or No.