HLAA Completes Another Successful HAT Training
Consumers from around the country joined HLAA’s Hearing Assistive Technology (HAT) Training Program October 26-28. Supported by a grant through the National Institute on Deafness and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) and the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Hearing Enhancement (RERC-HE) at Gallaudet University, HLAA’s HAT Training program seeks to ensure that consumers get the information they need about HAT. The people who are selected for this hands-on train-the-trainer program agree to take what was learned and teach others in their local community about HAT.
This year a terrific group of 21 motivated people gathered at the Marion Downs Hearing Center in Aurora, Colorado. We covered everything from hearing aids and cochlear implants to listening systems to alerting systems and hearing aid accessible phones. Trainees were immersed in the technology that makes lives easier for people with hearing loss, taught by experts in the field. The training was accessible to the consumers via CART and an assistive listening system.
Even as the session came to a close, plans are underway for the 2013 HAT Training. If you are interested in joining the training, please send an email to HAT@hearingloss.org.
What is Hearing Assistive Technology Training?
Hearing Assistive Technology (HAT) Training is a hands-on, weekend training session covering hearing aids, cochlear implants, assistive listening systems, alerting and signaling devices, and telephone technologies The training also includes instruction on how to advocate for technology in the workplace and public places. Training is conducted by experts in the field of assistive technology.
For whom?
The training is for adults interested in learning more about HAT and willing to teach others about HAT.
While no experience with hearing assistive technology is required, successful trainees typically have a basic knowledge of electronic devices and moderate computer skills. If you have the desire to be the go-to person in your HLAA Chapter or community and want to learn more on the topic, this training could be for you.
How much?
There is minimal cost to participants. The training is funded by a grant to the Rehabilitation Engineering Resource Center from the U.S. Department of Education (NIDRR grant number H133E030006). There is no charge for the training and most meals are provided at no cost. Trainees must cover the cost of traveling to and from the training site. Typically, the training is held yearly at various locations across the country. We also cover hotel accommodations for out-of-town participants.
Why?
Because we want you to share what you learn with people in your community. In return, you must volunteer to be a resource for people with hearing loss by working with local HLAA Chapters, civic organizations, schools, libraries, etc. Trainees must sign an agreement to conduct a minimum of three outreach activities within one year of the training.
How?
There is an application process, so check back periodically for an announcement for the 2012 HAT training. Get on our mailing list to make sure you don’t miss it! Here’s where we’ve held some of the past HAT training sessions:
- 2012 - Denver, CO
- 2011 - Washington, DC
- 2010 - Iowa City, IA
- 2009 - San Diego, CA
- 2007 - Storrs, CT
- 2006 - Gainesville, Fl
- 2002 - Portland, OR