On the 21st of May, Patrick Fitzgerald presented the SAID project at the National AT Conference GATHER, run by Ahead and NALA. Patrick shared what it means to be a Digi Coach and about learning to use assistive technology (AT). Patrick shared how he and the men and women started using technology in the service in 2014 to support self advocacy. Now, they use lots of digital assistive technology to support their independence. Patrick is training to be a Digi-Coach with the SAID Project. As a Digi-Coach, he will work in schools, teaching children and teachers how to use fun educational digital assistive technology. There are two teams in Ireland, one in Dublin and one in Kerry. Digital Coaches support teachers and children with digital skills, internet safety, and fun educational games.
Our Digital Coaches at the Dublin team, Patrick, Niamh, Doris, and Lisa, say that being Digital Coaches gives them a great sense of achievement to help others become more independent. They share their digital skills, help others, and show that people with disabilities can be experts, too. They share, teach, and make a difference!
