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Rehabilitation Teaching

UALR Master of Arts Program in Rehabilitation of the Blind with emphasis in Rehabilitation Teaching

Dr. Patricia Smith, Department Chair and RT Program Coordinator, RTC
Department of Counseling, Adult and Rehabilitation Education (CARE)
University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR)
2801 S. University Avenue
Little Rock, AR 72204
Voice/TDD: (501) 569-3169
Fax: (501) 569-8129
E-Mail: pbsmith@ualr.edu

Professor Patricia Smith
Hi! Welcome to UALR's Rehabilitation Teaching web page. Some of you might be exploring career options and others have already made the decision that the profession of rehabilitation teaching is their goal and are wondering what UALR's Rehabilitation Teaching (RT) program has to offer. UALR has several other programs closely related to rehabilitation teaching; numerous options are available for electives and the opportunity to earn a second master's degree or certification in related areas such as Orientation and Mobility(O&M), Rehabilitation Counseling (RC) or Teaching Students with Visual Impairments (TSVI). All of the programs may be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Beginning in the fall of 2002, the RT program began an internet-based online program. Most of the online courses utilize video-streaming as a major avenue to deliver information. The RT degree program is 42 credit hours and is offered as a online program utilizing videostreaming as a major avenue to deliver information. With online videostreaming you will see and hear your instructors lecturing, demonstrating, etc. similar to a regular classroom. The videostreams will be presented in short segments approximately 15 - 20 minutes in length and can be accessed at each student's convenience 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Several of the courses require some on-site hands-on sessions. Hopefully, whatever your purpose for visiting our web page, you will find information that will answer your questions. If you have additional questions or concerns, just give me a call at 501-569-3169 or e-mail me: pbsmith@ualr.edu.

Link to one page vitae, Dr. Pat Smith

Table of Contents

Rehabilitation Teaching Program Information

What is Rehabilitation Teaching?
Required Courses for RT Degree
Course Descriptions
Required Textbooks for RT Program
Equipment Requirements
Sample Sequence of Courses
Program Options
RT and RC Option
RT and O&M Option
(FAQ) Frequently Asked Questions
Application Process for UALR-RSA Scholarships
Practicum Handbook
Internship Handbook
Links to RT Related Sites
Maps and Driving Directions

Students engaged in simulated learning activity

What is Rehabilitation Teaching?

Are you interested in entering a career field that would involve nontraditional teaching within the area of human services, and disabilities (primarily visual impairment)? Since its inception in 1975, the UALR master's program in Rehabilitation Teaching has been preparing quality Rehabilitation Teachers (RT's) to instruct and provide guidance to adults who are blind and visually impaired. RT's give instruction in adaptive independent living skills, enabling adults who are blind and visually impaired to confidently carry out their life activities.

Where do Rehabilitation Teachers work?

Rehabilitation Teachers are active members of multidisciplinary service teams. In addition to direct instruction, they provide consultation and referrals utilizing community resources within federal, state, private, and other agency structures that serve people who are blind and visually impaired.

What is our employment track record for the RT program graduates?

A total of ninety-six percent (96%) of all of the program graduates have initially obtained employment in Rehabilitation Teaching with the remaining 4% working in a related field; 83% of the program's graduates continue to maintain current employment within the field of blindness. The status of the remaining 17% of the earliest graduates is unknown.

Our Mission Statement:

The UALR master's program in Rehabilitation Teaching provides pre-service and in-service quality education to a heterogeneous student population through a primarily internet-based online format preparing students to work in private and public agencies providing instruction and guidance in activities of daily living skills, enabling adults who are blind and visually impaired to confidently carry out their life activities.

1. Program Description

The UALR master's program in Rehabilitation Teaching (RT) is 42 semester hours of online courses that can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Four of the courses have a required hands-on assessment workshop. The program includes field service experiences with practicum and internship requirements at the end of the academic program.

2. Accreditation Status

Rehabilitation Teaching approved program: UALR's Rehabilitation Teaching program has been approved by the Association for the Education and Rehabilitation for the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) as meeting guidelines for university RT Personnel Preparation Programs.

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock [UALR] is fully accredited by North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, having completed the latest review in 2000. UALR received accreditation for the maximum possible, ten years.

3. Required Courses for RT Degree

*Courses marked with an asterisk require hands-on workshop.
+Courses marked with a plus require a grade of "B" or better to be accepted toward the RT degree.

Note: Courses are 3 credit hours each

Fall Semester Course Offerings:

RHBL 7312 Braille and Relevant Formats

+RHBL 7314 Principles of Rehabilitation Teaching

RHBL 7315 Medical Aspects of Blindness and Associated Disabilities

Spring Semester Course Offerings:

+*RHBL 7311 Methods of Teaching Communication Skills to Persons with Impaired Vision [prerequisite: Braille] Offered on alternate years with RHBL 7310

+*RHBL 7310 Methods of Teaching Independent Living Skills to Persons with Impaired Vision [prerequisite: Basic IL Skills and Braille] Offered on alternate years with RHBL 7311

RHBL 7325 Low Vision [prerequisite: Med. Aspects]

*CNSL 7302-999 Techniques of the Counseling Interview

COUN 7362 Psychological Aspects of Disability

Summer Semester Course Offerings:

+*RHBL 5302 Basic Independent Living Skills for Persons with Visual Impairment

Courses Offered Every Semester:

EDFN 7303 Introduction to Research

COUN 7360 Rehabilitation Foundations

Elective [may be taken at a local university and transferred to UALR; must be approved by RT program advisor]

+RHBL 7390 RT Practicum [9 weeks, 1/2 day 5 days/week] All RT courses must be completed prior to enrolling in Practicum

+RHBL 7395 RT Internship [full time = fifteen weeks; may be completed on a half time basis = 30 week; prerequisite: RT Practicum]

Total: 42 credit hours

N.B. All graduate degrees must be completed within a six-year time frame.

4. UALR RT Program Course Descriptions

RHBL 5302 Basic Independent Living Skills for Individuals with Visual Impairments

Introduction to concepts and techniques to teach individuals with visual impairments the skills and knowledge needed to function in diverse environments. Topics related to the expanded core curriculum will include: concept and motor development, spatial organization and orientation, and skills in the areas of basic orientation and mobility, personal management, communication, and recreation & leisure. The course will be offered online with a required one-week hands-o assessment workshop.

RHBL 7314 Principles of Rehabilitation Teaching

Principles and philosophies of providing rehabilitation teaching services to adults of all ages with visual impairments; includes conducting needs assessment interviews, writing individualized teaching plans.

RHBL 7310 Methods of Teaching Independent Living Skills to Persons with Visual Impairments

Pre-requisite: RHBL 5302 Basic Independent Living Skills and RHBL 7312 Braille. Methodologies for teaching adaptive skills necessary to perform daily living activities; includes personal management, home management, medical management, and workplace management. Required one week hands-on assessment workshop as part of the online course.

RHBL 7312 Braille and Relevant Formats

Skills of reading and writing Contracted (Grade II) Standard English Braille, including transcription rules and formats, use of slate and stylus, use of Perkins Braillers. Students taking this course must have the potential ability to tactually or visually discriminate embossed Braille configurations and may use assistive devices as needed. Students who are uncertain of their ability to meet this requirement and who wish to be assessed, should contact the program coordinator.

RHBL 7311 Methods of Teaching Communication Skills to Persons with Visual Impairments

Pre-requisite: RHBL 7312 Braille. Methodologies for teaching expressive and receptive adaptive communication skills, including Braille, keyboarding, handwriting, recording, and use of assistive computer technology. Required one week hands-on assessment workshop as part of the online course.

RHBL 7315 Medical Aspects of Blindness and Associated Disabilities

Anatomy, structure, function of the eye; frequently occurring diseases, malfunctions in children and adults; includes treatment procedures for disease process, rehabilitation and education implications of handicapped effects.

RHBL 7325 Implications of Low Vision

Pre-requisite: RHBL 7315 Medical Aspects or consent of instructor. Principles of visual perception development; implications of visual field losses; introduction to optics; optical, non-optics low-vision aids, procedures for vision screening; vision stimulation activities; low-vision simulation experiences.

CNSL 7302-999 Models and Techniques for Counseling Interviews

Techniques, procedures for counseling interviews, emphasis on mastery of levels of skills within a microskills hierarchy for counseling interviews, appropriate use of skills in various stages of counseling. Required hands-on on-campus workshop as part of the online course. Prerequisite CNSL 7301-999 or consent of the instructor

COUN 7360 Foundations of Rehabilitation

Philosophy of vocational rehabilitation; includes history, legislation, related professional organizations, particularly as they relate to services for visually impaired.

COUN 7362 Psychological Aspects of Disability

Prerequisites: COUN 7360 or consent of the instructor. This course outlines the psychological and sociological aspects of disability, including community attitudes toward individuals with disabilities, strategies to change negative attitudes, adjustment factors in living with disabilities, and methods for supporting successful adjustment to disabilities.

EDFN 7303 Introduction to Research and its Applications

Application of scientific approaches, methodology to problem solving; includes research design, data techniques analysis, their relation to action research, requires a research project.

ELECTIVE [3 credit hours] (Must be approved by the RT Program Coordinator)

RHBL 7390 Supervised Practice

Prerequisite: consent of the instructor. Faculty supervised practice in the use of required skills and competencies in the rehabilitation of individuals with visual impairments in rehabilitation or education settings.

RHBL 7395 Internship

Prerequisite: consent of the instructor. Professional rehabilitation work experiences in an appropriate rehabilitation or educational setting with individuals with visual impairments.

Textbooks Required for the UALR RT Program

5. Electives

A total of three (3) graduate credit hours of electives are required to complete the RT master's degree. All electives must be approved by the program coordinator. Students may choose to take a course at a local university and transfer the credit hours to UALR (with prior approval from the RT Program Coordinator). Here is a list of courses that UALR offers online that would be acceptable as electives in the RT program:

*Graduate standing is required for all graduate courses. Some courses have additional prerequisites.

A. CNSL 7301 Theoretical Approaches to Counseling--Required for Rehabilitation Counseling majors (Required as prerequisite to COUN 7366, COUN 7633, COUN 7364, CNSL 7307, CNSL 7302)
B. RHBL 7393/ST: Placement Techniques in the 21st Century for People with Visual Disabilities
C. COUN 7633 Vocational Counseling Assessment & Placement÷Required for Rehabilitation Counseling majors, Consent of Instructor (Prerequisite: CNSL 7301 or consent of instructor)
D. COUN 7364 Rehabilitation Case Management öRequired for Rehabilitation Counseling majors, Consent of Instructor (Prerequisite: CNSL 7301 or consent of instructor)
E. CNSL 7307 Theories and Techniques of Group Counseling--Required for Rehabilitation Counseling majors, Consent of Instructor (Prerequisite: CNSL 7301 or consent of instructor)
F. GERO 5385 ST: Suicide and Self-Destruction [note: course number may change; may not be offered every semester.]

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6. Equipment Requirements

In order to complete the online courses, you will need a computer system with the following requirements:

Minimum Computer System: PC Windows Based Computer with a Pentium 400 MHz or greater with 64 MB of RAM (128MB of RAM if using Microsoft Office XP) with multimedia capabilities including speakers and sound card, and a DSL, Cable, or T1 Internet connection. Accessing course materials with a 56k modem and dial-up Internet service may be possible in some geographic areas, but a faster connection is strongly recommended. The latest version of the RealPlayer 10.5 (available free at http://www.teletrain.com/va) is needed for video-streaming. Course materials are designed to work optimally with Internet Explorer 6 or greater and the Microsoft Office package including Word.

Note: If using adaptive equipment involving Braille and speech output, more memory is needed. A minimum of 128 MB of RAM are commonly required to access the online course delivery system used for some of the required RT program courses. Screen reader programs such as JAWS will require the newest versions, 3.5, 3.7, 4.0, or 5.0 in order to access the program course delivery software.

Computer Applications Upgrade (Free online software programs to install for routine evaluation of PC applications; scans PC and makes recommendations for software application upgrades as soon as they become available to consumers.)

CNET Catchup Utility
http://download.cnet.com/downloads/1,10150,0-10001-103-0-1-
7,00.html?tag=srch&qt=CatchUp&cn=&ca=10001

BigFix
http://www.bigfix.com/website/index.html

7. UALR RT Program Options

UALR has several other programs closely related to Rehabilitation Teaching. Numerous options are available for electives and the opportunity to earn a second master's degree or certification in related areas. A minimum of 60 credit hours is required for two master's degrees. Students electing to complete two master's degrees must be accepted and enrolled into both programs concurrently and be advised by both program advisors. The two most common double degrees in rehabilitation at UALR are:

a. MA in Rehabilitation Teaching and MA in Rehabilitation Counseling
b. MA in Rehabilitation Teaching and MA in Orientation and Mobility

Here is a list of courses that would be required for each of these combinations of two master's degrees.

Link to Required Courses for two masters' degrees in Rehabilitation Teaching and Rehabilitation Counseling

Link to Required Courses for two masters' degrees in Rehabilitation Teaching and Orientation and Mobility

N.B. Double degree combinations are not limited to RT and O&M, or RT and RC.

For information about specific courses in a related area, such as Orientation and Mobility (O&M), Rehabilitation Counseling (RC), Teaching Students with Visual Impairments (TSVI), Teachers of Students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing or Gerontology, please contact the program coordinator:

Orientation and Mobility (O&M) [Online]
Dr. William H. Jacobson, Program Coordinator
Emai: whjacobson@ualr.edu
Link to O & M Program:
http://www.teletrain.com/ualr/om/

Rehabilitation Counseling (RC) [Online]
Larry Dickerson, PhD, Program Coordinator
Email lrdickerson@ualr.edu
Link to RC Program:
http://www.teletrain.com/ualr/

Teaching Students with Visual Impairments (TSVI)
Ms. Margaret Robinson, EdD Candidate, Program Coordinator
Email mcrobinson@ualr.edu
TSVI Web-site: http://www.ualr.edu/coedept/teached/emphasis_4.htm

Teachers of Students Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH)
Pamela Broadston, EdD, Program Coordinator
Email pmbroadston@ualr.edu
DHH Web-site: http://www.ualr.edu/coedept/teached/emphasis_2.htm

Gerontology
Terry Richard, PhD, Program Coordinator
Email ttrichard@ualr.edu
Gerontology Web-site: http://www.ualr.edu/ahmarks/id4.htm#core_courses_

8. Introduction to Sample Sequence of Courses for the UALR RT Program
To assist you in envisioning what order you might complete the courses and how long it may take you to complete the degree, here are some sample programs of study, detailing the sequence of courses to be taken each semester. An individualized program of study will be created for each student by the RT Program Coordinator after acceptance into the program. Most students find that taking two courses online, especially if they have other commitments, is the recommended number they can successfully complete during one semester. The examples show a potential program of study for a student who begins the program fall semester and another program of study for a student who begins spring semester. Note, these are just examples. Students may wish to take only one course a semester. It is important to note that graduate degrees must be completed within a six year time frame.
Link to Sample Sequence of Courses

9. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
A. What are the requirements for being accepted into the UALR RT program?

N.B. Potential graduate students apply to the UALR Graduate School, not to the regular UALR Admissions.

Admission Requirements for the UALR RT Program

A. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution of higher education.

B. An overall undergraduate GPA of 2.75 (3.0 in the last 60 hours) or a masters degree or higher from an accredited institution of higher education.

C. A personal interview with the RT Program Coordinator. The interview may be conducted by telephone.

D. A personally-written essay of no more than 500 words describing applicant's background, experiences and goals for choosing a career in rehabilitation of the blind. There is no specific form or format that is required. Be sure that the applicant's name, address, telephone, email, major, and semester to begin program are included in the essay. Send essay directly to Dr. Pat Smith (pbsmith@ualr.edu; UALR, Dept. of CARE, 2801 S. University Ave., Little Rock, AR, 72204).

E. A completed application to UALR's Graduate School. Only official transcripts documenting degrees attained need be submitted unless additional transcripts are necessary to make a determination of the overall GPA.
N.B. Send a copy of the official transcript(s) and a copy of the initial application to the RT program coordinator. Please notify the RT program coordinator (pbsmith@ualr.edu) when sending copy of transcript(s) and application copy.
Send the official transcript(s) directly to the graduate school. If there has been a name change between previous university attendance and your current application, please note the name change on the application.
Applications must be submitted electronically. Enter the UALR BOSS system web site to apply to graduate school.
Link to UALR BOSS system website: http://boss.ualr.edu/
F. Applicants to the Rehabilitation Teaching Program are expected to have basic computer literacy skills and personal independent living skills. Applicants must have the potential ability to tactually or visually discriminate embossed Braille configurations and may use assistive devices as needed. Potential students who are uncertain of their ability to meet this requirement should contact the RT Program Coordinator for further information or clarification.
G. Rehabilitation students who wish to complete two related masters degrees must be accepted and enrolled into both programs concurrently. The two most common double degrees in rehabilitation at UALR are:

a. Rehabilitation Teaching and Orientation & Mobility
b. Rehabilitation Teaching and Rehabilitation Counseling

N.B. Double degree combinations are not limited to RT and O&M, or RT and RC.

Admission Process for UALR RT Program

A. Applicant sends required graduate admission materials to the UALR Graduate School.

Application forms available online: Link to UALR BOSS system website: http://boss.ualr.edu/

B. Graduate School notifies student that application has been received, and lists any materials that are lacking. A temporary identification number and PIN number will be assigned to the applicant, allowing the person to track the progress of his or her application [e.g., incoming transcripts from other universities, etc.].
C. Graduate School sends completed application to the respective Program Coordinator (RT, Dr. Pat Smith).
D. Applicant is notified of graduate school status upon acceptance into a UALR graduate school program.
E. After student has been accepted into a UALR program, the student receives a new permanent UALR identification number (ID) and personal PIN # which will be used throughout graduate school. These ID #'s are used for the following activities: registering for courses; determining selection of courses offered in upcoming semesters as well as course schedules; accessing online library databases, grades, and unofficial transcripts; financial status (any finances owed or awarded by financial aid or grant funding)

Conditional Status for UALR RT Program Admission

If not meeting the standards for regular admission, applicants may be considered for conditional admission with an overall GPA of 2.5 and submitting documentation showing evidence of their ability to succeed in graduate-level work in their chosen field of study. This documentation may include official transcripts from all universities attended, successful graduate course work from an accredited university, examples of academic and professional work, test scores from the GRE or MAT, and letters of reference. The College of Education Admission Committee will evaluate the documentation. Students must move from conditional to regular status at the completion of 12 semester hours in the program with an overall GPA of at least 3.0 and a grade of "B" or better in designated program courses.

Pending Status for UALR Graduate School Programs

Students can enroll in classes for one semester while your application is under consideration (pending). In order for candidates to enter pending status you must submit an application for admission to the graduate program, a photocopy of a transcript showing that a bachelor's or higher degree in an appropriate field has been conferred, and transcripts of graduate work (if applicable). Grade point averages must meet the standards for regular or conditional admission. Pending status would be allowed for one semester. (Two summer sessions will be considered the equivalent of one semester.)

B. Are there deadlines for submitting applications to the UALR graduate school?

It is recommended that new students seeking admission apply at least 2 months prior to initial semester.
Fall Semester (beginning mid-August): Applications should be submitted by the first of June.
Spring Semester (beginning mid January): Applications should be submitted by first of October
Summer Semester (beginning late May): Applications should be submitted by first of March

C. Can I transfer graduate credits to the RT program that I earned at another university?

Students may transfer graduate course credits from other universities if the course content is comparable to required courses at UALR and if they are approved by the program coordinator. Up to 50% of the total number of hours required for the rehabilitation of the blind degree may be accepted from accredited institutions for courses equivalent to those required at UALR. They must at least be grades of a "B" or better and earned within five years of admission to the program. Courses that were part of another degree may not be transferred and counted as part of the credit hours toward a second degree. However, if course content is comparable, the course taken as part of a degree awarded by another university may be used to request an exemptionto a required course. Contact the UALR RT Program Coordinator for more information (pbsmith@ualr.edu).

D. What kind of educational background is acceptable for admittance into the RT program?

Any Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university will be acceptable for admittance into the program.

E. Is the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) or the Miller's Anthology test required for program admittance?

No testing is required for entrance to the RT program if G.P.A. requirements are met.

F. Are thesis or comprehensive examinations required?

No thesis or comprehensive examinations are required for completion of the RT program.

G. What is the cost of the Rehabilitation Teaching (RT) program?

Tuition

Beginning Fall semester, 2004, the UALR Rehabilitation Teaching, Orientation and Mobility, and Rehabilitation Counseling courses will cost $240 per credit hour (regardless of state of residence). It is anticipated that tuition costs at UALR will increase approximately 5% yearly, beginning with each fall semester.
N.B. All courses are 3 credit hours each.

N.B. There are financial penalties for late registration and late payment of tuition.

If a student is awarded grant funding for a particular semester, grant funds would cover tuition costs for one UALR course per semester as well as a small stipend; the grant payment for tuition is made directly to the University; the grant scholarship recipient is responsible for the tuition and fee costs of additional courses. For students who have applied for federal loans, payment of tuition is expected by the university at the regular payment deadline even if loan funds have not yet been received by the student. Grant and/or any scholarship awards are deducted from the total amount of any federal loan awarded to the student.

N.B. Go to UALR's secured access BOSS site (Banner Online Student Services) to view information including key dates for semester registration, payment of tuition, and other student information (e.g., financial aid status, grades, and schedule of classes).

Link to BOSS website: http://boss.ualr.edu/

Refer to the UALR Academic Calendar for a list of key dates through the academic year.
Link to UALR Academic Calendar: http://www.ualr.edu/provost/calendar.html

Other UALR RT Program Costs

In addition to tuition and fees, students are responsible for other
program costs, which include:

A. Textbooks and course project materials.
Rehabilitation Teaching students will be notified by the RT Program Coordinator about mid-semester about the required textbooks for the following semester.

B. Travel, room and board costs for required on-campus or on-site hands-on workshops.

C. Students in the RT program who do not have frequent access locally to the use of a Braillewriter, may borrow one from the University. If the Braillewriter becomes damaged beyond normal use of the machine, the student is responsible for the costs of repair or replacement of the Braillewriter. Students who wish to borrow a Braillewriter from UALR should contact Dr. Pat Smith to make specific arrangements.

D. All equipment necessary to complete course assignments, primarily personal computer hardware and software.

If you anticipate needing to make copies of resource information, articles, etc. while in Little Rock, copying charges locally are 7 cents to 10 cents per page.

H. What financial assistance is available for the UALR RT program?

Financial Assistance

The Rehabilitation Teaching program currently has a Federal Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) grant. The grant provides some financial assistance to a limited number of qualified students enrolled in one of these degree programs. The current grant will end the summer of 2005. Students receiving grant funding enter into a contractual agreement requiring a graduate to work for a state, federal or nonprofit rehabilitation agency for two years per every year of scholarship grant funds received (the requirement is the same, regardless of student status [full or part-time] per each year of funding received). Part-time student pay-back time is pro-rated on full-time equivalent.

Eligibility Criteria for RSA Scholarship through UALR: (scholarship information also applies to UALR O&M Program)

A. Must be a U.S. citizen.

B. Must be admitted to the UALR RT (O&M) degree program as a student in good standing [regular admission].

Funding Priorities:

A. Likelihood of working as an RT (O&M) instructor.

B. Prior experience in the field.

C. Continuing students will receive priority over new applicants.

Eligibility Criteria for Continuation of Scholarship:

A. Must have successfully completed all prior coursework.

B. Continuous enrollment.

C. Funding only guaranteed through July 31 of each year, based on grant fiscal year.

Amount of Scholarship per semester: Tuition for one course taken at UALR and a total stipend of $400.00 per semester (total stipend will be paid at the beginning of the semester).

Applications for scholarships may be submitted in the semester in which students will have completed at least six credit hours online. Scholarships will be awarded for the following semester as soon as grades are posted for the current semester. Students who know they will be successfully completing coursework for the current semester can expect continuation of scholarship funding pending enrollment in the next semesterâs coursework, unless grant funding has ended. Future availability of grant funding is not possible to predict.

Application process to apply for a UALR-RSA Scholarship

N.B. Since original signatures are required on the RSA forms, hard copies must be mailed to the UALR RT program coordinator, Dr. Pat Smith (for O&M, Dr. Bill Jacobson).

A. Complete application form for UALR-RSA Scholarship [Link to Scholarship Application form: UALR-RSA scholarship application form

B. Sign and date Scholarship Agreement form [link to Scholarship Agreement form: Scholarship Agreement form]

C. Sign and date Certification for Eligibility form [link to Certification for Eligibility form: Certification for Eligibility form]

D. Mail (no faxes) hard copies of the forms to the appropriate program coordinator.

Rehabilitation Teaching majors to Dr. Pat Smith (Orientation & Mobility majors to Dr. Bill Jacobson)

University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR)
Dept. of CARE
2801 S. University Ave.
Little Rock, AR 72204

[To download copies of the required applications forms: Highlight document(s); Edit>>select all>>copy; open new word processing document; edit>>paste; add personal information needed to complete document(s); save copy of document(s) on disk/hard drive for own records; print document(s); send hard copies to appropriate program coordinator.]

Additional information regarding Federal Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) and Personnel Preparation Long-term Training grants may be found in the RSA Scholarship Information Handbook.
Link to RSA Handbook: (Click on the RSA scholarship manual)
http://www.rcep7.org/projects/cspd.html
Other Resources for Financial Aid
Other resources for financial assistance may include the following: local libraries have books listing scholarships potentially available to graduate students; UALR's Ottenheimer library also contains reference materials listing financial resources for graduate school scholarship funds. Link to Ottenheimer Library: http://library1.ualr.edu/

Link to general information regarding graduate Financial Aid opportunities via UALR graduate school website: http://www.ualr.edu/graddept/gbtn/front.html#aid

N.B. Some financial aid resources require a student to be enrolled as a full-time student. At UALR, full-time status is a minimum of nine credit hours for graduate students for the academic year semesters and six credit hours for summers.

Link to financial aid and scholarship websites: http://www.sas.calpoly.edu/ub/finaid.html ; http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ ; http://www.pin.ed.gov/

P.E.O. Scholarship Awards Program: The P.E.O. Scholar Awards Program, established in 1991, provides educational awards for women of the United States and Canada who are either pursuing a graduate degree or are engaged in advanced study and research at an accredited university or college. Awards are made regardless of race, national origin, religious affiliation, or disability. This is a one-time award.
Link to Drew Financial/P.E.O. Scholarship Awards Program Information: http://www.drew.edu/finan/request.html

The UALR Trebing Scholarship: A special scholarship fund has been established for the Rehabilitation of the Blind students that was initiated through a small endowment fund from the Trebing estate. Presently the Trebing fund is very limited pursuant to an increase in the principal. Tax deductible donations to the Rehabilitation of the Blind scholarship fund may be sent to the UALR Development Office, 2801 South University, Little Rock, AR 72204; Attention: Trebing Scholarship Fund.

For additional information on how you can support the programs through online giving, planned giving, etc., visit the UALR Office of Development website. Link to UALR Office of Development website: http://www.ualr.edu/development/opportunities.html

The Carl Foley Graduate Student Continuing Education Scholarship: Sponsored by the Council of Citizens with Low Vision International. The scholarship fund awards annually a special $1,000 graduate scholarship. The purpose of the award is to help the recipients to increase their qualifications for employment in occupations where they would work effectively with low vision persons (applicants do not have to be visually impaired to apply). Contact information to inquire about the scholarship:

By Mail:
Graduate Scholarship Committee
Mr. Carl E. Foley
1357 East David Road
Kettering, OH
45429-5703
Email carlfoley@earthlink.net

I. How do I register for courses?

The UALR online BOSS system is used for all student transactions including registration. Your student identification number and personal PIN number allow you access into your student account. The BOSS system allows UALR students online access to register for courses; view course schedules, holds, grades and unofficial transcripts of UALR courses; financial aid requirements and awards; view account balance and make online payments if needed.
Link to UALR BOSS system website: http://boss.ualr.edu/

Do I have an email account as a UALR student?

All registered students have a UALR email account. You can access yours through any Internet connection at http://mail.ualr.edu.

To login, enter your first initial, middle initial, and last name for your username. Your initial password will be your student ID.

The university sends important university-related information to student e-mail accounts. You are responsible for regularly reading e-mail messages. While the mail system allows you to forward your e-mail, use this option with the understanding that you are responsible for messages sent to your university e-mail address.

J. What is the length of time required to complete the UALR RT program?

The length of time required to complete the program will depend on the number of courses taken each semester. For example, if two online courses are taken fall and spring semester and one course during the summer semester, the degree can be completed in three years. The university requires that advanced degrees be completed within six years. The program coordinator will draft a tentative program of study for each student based on the individual's preferred course load, so the anticipated time frame may be determined prior to actually beginning the program. Sample programs of study can be found on this webpage.

K. Do I have any recourse if I feel I have been treated unfairly by an instructor?

Students have the right to appeal grades or other pertinent issues. Refer to the UALR Student Handbook for specific steps to initiate an appeal process.

Link to UALR Student Handbook: http://www.ualr.edu/www/handbook/handbook.html

L. Do I have to come to the campus, or is the program offered by distance education?

Since the fall of 2002, the UALR RT program has been offered as a primarily internet-based online format utilizing videostreaming as a major format to deliver information. Some classes require a hands-on assessment workshop attendance to complete the degree. For three of the required RT courses [RHBL 5302 ST: Basic Independent Living Skills for Persons with Visual Impairment, RHBL 7310 Methods of Teaching Independent Living Skills for Persons with Impaired Vision, and RHBL 7311 Methods of Teaching Communication Skills to Persons with Impaired Vision] there will be a one week required hands-on assessment workshop for each of these courses. The week will usually be scheduled during the last quarter of the course. For another one of the required RT courses [CNSL 7302-999 Techniques of the Counseling Interview] there will be a three-day on-site workshop which is usually scheduled toward the end of the semester from Thursday through Saturday.

See #3, Required Courses for the RT Degree Program with Course Descriptions.

Link to Map from Little Rock Airport to UALR campus:
N.B. If you will be bringing a vehicle to the UALR campus, you must obtain a student vehicle parking sticker from the UALR Safety Department and obtain a map indicating the authorized parking areas for student vehicles.
Link to UALR Campus Parking Options: http://www.ualr.edu/dpsafety/parking.htm

M. What can I expect will happen during the workshop hands-on activities?

You will be actively participating in structured assessment activities related to the specific course in which you are enrolled. Unfortunately, some of your family, co-workers, and friends may think you are coming to Little Rock for a vacation and it may be frustrating to get them to understand that you are going to be incredibly busy and your trip will not be an "R&R" [rest and recreation]. Anticipate that the last session of the hands-on workshop time will be spent in taking the final exam for the course.

N.B. The hands-on activities are a requirement for each course where indicated. Failure to participate in the activities can result in failure of the course.

N. Where can I stay when I come to Little Rock for the hands-on sessions?

It is anticipated that the required hands-on assessment workshop for the UALR RT courses of Basic IL, Methods of IL, and Communication courses will be held in the conference room at the Best Western Governors Inn Suites (not the UALR campus). The costs listed for the rooms are subject to change. [The hands-on workshop for the techniques of counseling is usually held on the UALR campus.] Students are responsible for making their own hotel reservations and for all costs.

Best Western Governors Inn Suites
1501 Merrill Drive
Little Rock, AR 72211
501-224-8051

The hotel has 49 guest rooms, arranged in a rectangle around a center, indoor atrium. All rooms have electronic door locks and open to the indoor atrium. The one person suites contain: one king size bed, couch, large upholstered chair, small table with two chairs, small room refrigerator, small microwave, iron and ironing board, hairdryers, coffee maker, television with cable and HBO, free internet access, free local calls. Suites are available with two double beds and a sofa-bed. Single rooms: $75 per day; double: $85 per day; three persons: $95 per day.

Hotel guests have access to the hotel's outdoor swimming pool [in season], free health club privileges at the Powerhouse Gym [half a block from the hotel] and complimentary full breakfast buffet.

Hotel's website: http://www.bestwestern.com/governorsinnsuites

A grocery store (Harvest Foods) and K-mart are about three blocks away, with sidewalk access. There are several restaurants and stores within easy walking distance.

The class will be held in the hotel's conference room, located at one end of the main floor.

Driving Directions

Specific directions from your point of origin to the hotel can be otained from internet websites, such as:

http://www.mapquest.com
http://www.mappoint.msn.com
http://www.mapblast.com

General Directions:
From I-40 take the I-430 exit south
From I-30 take the I-430 exit north
From I-430 take the Rodney Parham Road exit, turn west
[coming from the north, it will be a right hand turn off the exit ramp; coming from the south, it will be a left hand off the exit ramp]

Turn left onto Shackleford Road [0.27 miles from I-430]

Turn right onto Merrill Drive [about 2 blocks from Rodney Parham]

Best Western Governors Inn Suites is about 2 blocks on the left on the southwest corner of Merrill Drive and Huron [called Market Street on the north side of Merrill Drive, Huron on the south side of Merrill Drive].
N.B. Students are responsible for lodging costs, and if needed, transportation costs.

O. What is the dress code for onsite workshop sessions?

UALR does not have a specific dress code. It is recommended that you wear layered, casual, comfortable clothes that can be adjusted to the environment. In the summer, Little Rock can be hot and humid outdoors. The temperature of the hotel conference rooms can vary from warm to very chilly--needing a sweater or sweatshirt. If you are staying at the Best Western Governors Inn Suite, you will also have access to the Powerhouse Gym so you may wish to bring swimming attire and work-out clothes. If you wish to bring a sack lunch to the on-site workshop, you will need to bring a thermal lunch container since you will not have access to the use of a refrigerator.

P. If I've never taken an online course, what kind of equipment do I need?

Equipment Requirements:

In order to complete the online courses of the UALR RT program you will need a computer system with the following requirements:

Minimum Computer System: PC Windows Based Computer with a Pentium 400 MHz or greater with 64 MB of RAM (128MB of RAM if using Microsoft Office XP) with multimedia capabiities including speakers and sound card, and a DSL, Cable, or T1 Internet connection. Accessing course materials with a 56k modem and dial-up Internet service may be possible in some geographic areas, but a faster connection is strongly recommended. The latest version of the RealPlayer 10.5 (available free at http://www.teletrain.com/va) is needed for video-streaming. Course materials are designed to work optimally with Internet Explorer 6 or greater and the Microsoft Office package including Word.

If you will need to use adaptive equipment involving Braille and speech output, more memory is needed. A minimum of 128 MB of RAM are commonly required to access the online course delivery system used for some of the required RT program courses. Screen reader programs such as JAWS will require the newest versions, 3.5, 3.7, 4.0, or 5.0 in order to access Blackboard, the course delivery software used in UALR's RT program.

Screen Reader Support is available: Contact Tanya VanHouten; Email: vanharris@centurytel.net

Spell Checker for BlackBoard and Other Text Files (works with screenreader software)
Spelling Checker that works within Internet Explorer when you have a Text Box. Once you have put your text in, you highlight the text, right click with your mouse, and select Spelling Checker. It checks spelling within your text box.

Link to IE Spell: Internet Explorer add-on that spell checks text input boxes on a webpage: http://www.iespell.com/download.php

Note: Interactive software application programs are essential for the performance of online courses. UALR's RT program utilizes Blackboard, a commercial course delivery system with interactive software technology and videostreaming as a major avenue to deliver information. (See below in next section for additional information about Blackboard).

WebCT Start-Up Guide: For students enrolled in other UALR courses using the WebCT course software, see the following website: http://www.ualr.edu/scholars/files/start.html

For troubleshooting technical problems with WebCT courses, contact Ms. Dawn Wolford [Technical Assistant]; Phone number: 501-569-856.

Computer Applications Upgrade (Free online software programs to install for routine evaluation of PC applications; scans PC and makes recommendations for software application upgrades as soon as they become available to consumers.)

CNET Catchup Utility
http://download.cnet.com/downloads/1,10150,0-10001-103-0-1-
7,00.html?tag=srch&qt=CatchUp&cn=&ca=10001

BigFix
http://www.bigfix.com/website/index.html

Students who will be enrolling in the Rehabilitation Teaching program will be required to have frequent access to a Braillewriter during the semester they are completing the Braille course and at different intervals during the Methods class and the Communications class. Students who do not have local access to a Braillewriter may borrow one from UALR. Please contact Dr. Pat Smith, pbsmith@ualr.edu, to make specific arrangements.
N.B. Computer Braille will not be accepted to meet the Braille course requirements.

Q. What assistance is available to new students in learning how to use the technology and other resources available to online students?

1. As a prerequisite to taking the first course online, all students will receive a technical orientation to prepare them for participating in internet-based course work. The UALR online programs in RT, O & M, and RC have hired technical assistants that will provide this orientation. The orientation will be scheduled individually with the student prior to the beginning of the semester. In addition, most courses will utilize the first class session explaining the technology features that will be needed to participate in the course (i.e., e-mail, sending attachments, how to engage in chat rooms and threaded discussions etc.).

A. A demo of a Rehabilitation Teaching Videostream with Dr. Pat Smith is available to enable students to view a videostream prior to enrolling in an online videostreamed course. Note: A current version of RealPlayer is needed to access the videostream.

Link to sample online videostream: http://learningmanager.teletrain.com:554/ramgen/stream6/UALR2/pat/Patdemovideo.rm

B. Link to a Sample Course Online using Blackboard: http://www.teletrain.com/ualr/demo/
Note: You must have the Real Player and sound capabilities to view the video stream.

C. Blackboard offers a text-based tutorial for students who will be using an adapative screen reader device.
Link to the Blackboard screen reader tutorial: http://products.blackboard.com/cp/bb5/access/screen_reader_tutorial.htm

D. Screen Reader Support is available: Contact Tanya VanHouten; Email: vanharris@centurytel.net

E. Spell Checker for BlackBoard and Other Text Files (works with screenreader software)
Spelling Checker that works within Internet Explorer when you have a Text Box. Once you have put your text in, you highlight the text, right click with your mouse, and select Spelling Checker. It checks spelling within your text box.

Link to IE Spell: Internet Explorer add-on that spell checks text input boxes on a webpage: http://www.iespell.com/download.php

2. Problem solving if Blackboard server is not functioning
The majority of the RT and O&M and RC courses are delivered through the server at the Teletraining Institute, in Stillwater, OK. Although the BlackBoard server at the Teletraining Institute is rarely down, there have been a few instances when it was not functioning. Because the biggest problem comes from not knowing service is down, Teletraining has set up a ãhelpä e-mail contact if services go down after hours or on the weekend. Thus even if UALR's server is down, you will still be able to access the course(s) through the teletraining server (see www.teletrain.com/ualr).

Please e-mail Gerald McClain at gerald@teletrain.com and also copy the e-mail to Dr. Bill Garner wegarner@ualr.edu). The problem will then be addressed ASAP. Before you e-mail Gerald, try to access both the www.teletrain.com/ualr website and the www. blackboard.teletrain.com website. Also make sure your Internet Service Provider is working. If you are able to access other websites but not Teletraining websites, then the problem is most likely going to be with the Blackboard server and not your computer.

Please note that if service goes down during business hours, contact Sherri Campbell [Technical Assistant]; sdcampbell@ualr.edu; 501-683-7084, or Dr. Bill Garner, wegarner@ualr.edu; 501-569-3555 before contacting Teletraining.
3. The UALR Ottenheimer library provides assistance to all UALR students for accessing library resources.

Accessing Indexes available through the UALR Online Library:
Your primary resource for online literature search is through the EBSCOhost databases at our main UALR library site (http://library1.ualr.edu). The database can be found there under: Databases and Research Tools; Indexes and Databases. A good EBSCOhost database with which to start is Academic Search Elite, but many of the other databases will yield useful resources.
Hint: When searching, checking the Full Text search option and the Scholarly (Peer-Reviewed) Journals search option will help narrow results.

If the article you are seeking is not available in full text, you can use the UALR library’s online Interlibrary Loan System, ILLiad, to have copies of the article delivered to your desktop. Please see the UALR library webpage for more information on using ILLiad.

For persons with visual impairments: If you are using a screen reader, such as JAWS, choosing the "Ebsco Databases -- No Graphics, Text based" will be very helpful in moving around the databases.

Important Note: If you are off-campus, make sure you click on the http://library1.ualr.edu/screens/proxypage.html link for access. You will see it when you reach the Indexes, Abstracts, and Full Text by Title screen (http://library1.ualr.edu/screens/indexes_homepage.html). The database will require you to enter your 14-digit UALR Library Card ID number. The 14-digit card number should be on the back of your UALR Campus I.D. card if you have one. If you do not, the 14-digit number is available through UALR’s BOSS system. This is same system you use to register online. You can access BOSS at UALR’s homepage: www.ualr.edu.

You will need to have your six-digit PIN number to get into BOSS. You should have received this when you received your Letter of Acceptance from UALR’s Graduate School. If you did not, please contact the Graduate School at 501-569-3206.

Once you are logged into BOSS, click on "Personal Information", and then "View UALR Library Card ID Number." If you have problems with finding or using the Library Card ID number, please e-mail our Head Information Technology Librarian, Linda Stipsky (lbstipsky@ualr.edu) with your request, and your name and address.

Although some of the resources at the online Rehabilitation Counseling (affiliated with the RT and O&M Programs) library site (library1.ualr.edu/pub/library/rehabcouns.htm) are still useful such as the Galileo Public Databases, Galileo Licensed Databases are no longer available there. There is no longer a working Password.

American Psychological Association (APA) style (format required for graduate research papers):
http://www.apastyle.org/elecref.html

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact a reference
librarian at 501-569-8806.

R. What accessibility is available for full program participation?

Students with disabilities who may need accommodations with the online courses and/or during the activities hands-on are urged to contact their program coordinator and Disability Support Services (DSS) when the application to Graduate School is submitted:

Ms. Susan Queller, DSS Director, 501-569-3143; Email: slqueller@ualr.edu
Dr. Bill Jacobson, O&M Coordinator, 501-569-8505; Email: whjacobson@ualr.edu
Dr. Pat Smith, RT Coordinator, 501-569-3169; Email: pbsmith@ualr.edu
Dr. Larry Dickerson, RC Coordinator, 501-569-3428; Email: lrdickerson@ualr.edu

Some of the services offered by DSS include:

1. Assistance obtaining taped texts, Braille, large print, and raised line drawings.

2. Coordination of the purchase of adaptive equipment.

3. Help with the use of assistive technology on campus.

Link to Request for Disability Accommodations in Distance Education Courses:
http://www.ualr.edu/dssdept

Disability Support Services (DSS) Student Handbook:
http://www.ualr.edu/dssdept/shwelcome.html#miss

For a List of Adaptive Technologies and Equipment for Students Who Are Blind or Who Have Low Vision:

Visit the UALR DSS Website and select the following: Information for Students; Helpful Tools; Adaptive Technology; Adaptive Technology for Students who are blind or who have low vision. You may be able to enter the specific page from your search engine with the following web address: http://www.ualr.edu/dssdept/infostudents.html

S. What should I do or who should I contact if I experience technical problems or have difficulties with tuition or registration etc.?

Depending on the problem or issue, consider the following options:

A. Technical problems with Blackboard (the software course delivery system): Contact Dr. Bill Garner [Online Coursework Technical Coordinator and faculty member]; Email wegarner@ualr.edu; 501-569-3555 OR Ms. Sherri Campbell [Technical Assistant]; Email sdcampbell@ualr.edu; 501-683-7084.

N.B. Technical assistance is for troubleshooting issues related to the course delivery system, Blackboard, not for the student's personal computer (pc) equipment.

B. Technical problems with your pc equipment: If your computer is not functioning properly, seek assistance from the vendor where the computer was purchased, or contact a computer technical consultant in your local area.

N.B. Students are expected to have a full contingency plan for use of a backup computer system that can be accessed in the event that the student's computer breaks down while he/she is enrolled in online courses. Possible alternative computer resources may include:

1. Public libraries.

2. Agency owned computer (if you are currently employed, your agency may allow use of an agency computer for completion of course requirements).

3. Friends or family members.

C. Tuition or Registration difficulties: Contact Ms. Barbara Silaski [Adult Student Advocacy)]; Email basilaski@ualr.edu; 501-569-3370. The Adult Student Advocacy is designed to provide encouragement and assistance to adults entering or returning to college. This office seeks to provide the support students may need to make a successful transition to college life.

D. Grant funding problems, other issues specific to the UALR Rehabilitation Teaching program: Contact the RT Program Coordinator; Dr. Pat Smith, Rehabilitation Teaching Program Coordinator, Email pbsmith@ualr.edu; 501-569-3169.

T. How do I purchase the textbooks required for the courses I am enrolled in?

Rehabilitation Teaching students will be notified by the RT Program Coordinator about mid-semester about the required textbooks for the following semester.

Options for obtaining textbooks:

Purchase textbooks directly from the publisher (online).
Borrowing textbooks from a friend or co-worker.
Some agencies that have a professional library may purchase required textbooks for their employees for the duration of a course with the understanding that the textbooks become part of the agency's professional library after the course is completed.

U. What if I already know Braille? Do I have to enroll in the Braille and Relevant Formats Course?

Braille Proficiency Test

Students who already know contracted Braille may wish to take a proficiency test. For specific information, contact the Program Coordinator, Dr. Pat Smith, pbsmith@ualr.edu. The test consists of three parts: Braille to print, print to Braille, and proofreading. Students who demonstrate Braille competency have two options:

1. Request an exemption to the Braille course requirement and pay tuition to take a different three credit hour course in order to complete the required 42 credit hours of the RT master's degree.

OR

2. Register for the Braille course and pay the tuition. The grade received on the proficiency test will be processed as the course grade at the end of the semester. Students do not have to complete the Braille assignments required in the class.

N.B. Computer Braille will not be accepted to meet the Braille course requirements.

V. How are students evaluated in the UALR RT program?

Individual student progress is evaluated throughout the degree program by a variety of means including but not limited to the following: course projects, individual projects (e.g. term papers, lesson plans, client progress reports and assessments etc.), overall interpersonal skills (e.g. ability to develop rapport with faculty, peers, clients, and others), level of own personal independent living skills, communications skills (e.g. receptive communications skills [acquiring or recording information received from others,] and expressive verbal communications skills [informal dialogue as well as speaking in front of a group]), and observation of teaching skills (within the classroom, individual lessons with the instructor, and field experience). To remain in good academic standing, students must maintain an overall G.P.A. of 3.00 and a minimum of a "B" in key RT courses.

Students are expected to abide by all rules and regulations in the UALR Student Handbook and the Code of Ethics for Rehabilitation Teachers. Infractions may result in failing a course, dismissal from the program or University. (A copy of the RT Code of Ethics is included in the UALR RT Practicum handbook: Link to UALR RT Practicum Handbook)

Advisement Process

An individualized program of study is developed for each student admitted into the RT Master's degree program. There will be a mid-term conference scheduled for each student with the RT program faculty advisor to review current progress in the RT program and to revise the individualized program of study for each student.

N.B. The required meeting can be arranged as a phone call conference for students who live outside the Little Rock area.

W. It has been a number of years since I have attended school and I am not sure how I will do in the RT program. What if I don't understand something about the course requirements?

It is normal for students who have not attended school recently to have a higher level of anxiety about participating in a graduate school program. Due to the unique nature of web-based learning, certain problems are not as visible as they would be if courses were conducted within a traditional classroom. Therefore, it is very important that you "speak up in a timely fashion" if you are having difficulties. Your instructor and/or program coordinator will not necessarily be aware of the difficulties you may be experiencing. Some students who have previously completed online courses required for the RT program are available for mentoring new students. Contact the RT Program Coordinator for contact information and other details (pbsmith@ualr.edu).

X. What if something happens that I'm not able to finish the UALR RT program courses for a particular semester?

If a student has justifiable extenuating circumstances that can be appropriately documented, a time extension request may be submitted to the instructor to allow for successful completion of course requirements. However, a student with incompletes may be prevented from progressing in the RT program if the incompletes are not removed within the time frame authorized by the program faculty member. During the time period extended for making up incompletes, grant funding will be discontinued. When the student has successfully completed all outstanding courses, she/he may apply for a grant scholarship and will be considered as though submitting a new application.

Y. How are the UALR RT practicum and internship experiences handled? How does this part of the program work?

Practicum

Upon successful completion of all key rehabilitation teaching courses, students enroll in a three credit hour practicum, which encompasses direct service experience for half a day, five days/week for nine weeks at a rehabilitation agency serving individuals with visual impairment. The student may be concurrently enrolled in related required courses. It is recommended that the rehabilitation agency have a recognized certification, such as NAC or CARF. The rehabilitation setting must provide opportunities for the practicum student to gain sufficient experience in teaching a wide range of independent living skills. The mentoring supervisor must be an ACVREP certified rehabilitation teacher with a master's degree in rehabilitation teaching with three years experience. A field placement agreement is completed between UALR and the rehabilitation agency. Practicum placements are individualized and may necessitate students commuting or relocating temporarily from their home communities. Placements are finalized by the UALR RT program coordinator in agreement with the student and the rehabilitation agency.

The UALR RT practicum experience provides hands-on teaching experience for the rehabilitation teaching student. Students are given the opportunity to become familiar with all of the services and responsibilities associated with the respective agency, observe other rehabilitation teachers and related services, and most importantly, to teach a variety of independent living skills to a diverse client population. In-depth supervision will be provided by the mentoring supervisor on-site and the UALR RT program coordinator. When possible, the UALR RT coordinator will also make on-site visits. Copies of required paperwork will be sent to the UALR supervisor as well as videotapes of several lessons, intakes, etc. Additional information may be obtained from the UALR Rehabilitation Teaching Practicum Handbook.

Link to UALR RT Practicum Handbook

Internship:

Internship is the final course of the Rehabilitation Teaching degree--just before Graduation! All other coursework must be successfully completed, including practicum. Internship assignments are made by the RT Program Coordinator, with respect given to the students' preferences for target population, service delivery system, geographical area, and whether financial assistance is necessary. Students enroll for a three credit hour internship course which encompasses direct service experience full time for fifteen weeks or half days for thirty weeks.

The agency supervisors must have a minimum of three years successful rehabilitation experience. ACVREP RT certification, and preferred master's degree in Rehabilitation Teaching. It is recommended that the agency have a recognized certification, such as NAC or CARF. The rehabilitation setting must provide opportunities for the RT intern to gain sufficient experience in teaching a wide range of independent living skills to a diverse client population. A field placement agreement is completed between UALR and the rehabilitation agency. Internship placements are individualized and may necessitate students commuting or relocating temporarily from their home communities. Placements are finalized by the program coordinator in agreement with the student and rehabilitation agency. It may be possible for students to complete the practicum and internship experiences at the same agency in immediate succession. It is preferable for students to complete the practicum and internship courses at different agencies in order to broaden and increase the students' range of experiences. Additional information may be found in the Rehabilitation Teaching Internship Handbook.

Link to the UALR RT Internship Handbook

Z. Is it true that student teachers (practicum students and interns) need to secure malpractice insurance? Where can I obtain malpractice insurance?

It is recommended that students completing professional field experiences have professional liability insurance coverage, but it is not required. The professional organization, AER (Association for the Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired), has arranged for a Group Insurance product through Forrest T. Jones and Company, Inc. to provide professional liability insurance to professionals in our field. For information: 1-800-821-7303 or http://www.ftj.com/).

Link to AER:
(Association for the Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired):
http://www.aerbvi.org/

AA. Will I earn a state teaching certificate with a master's degree in Rehabilitation Teaching?

There is no state teaching certificate given with the master's degree in Rehabilitation Teaching, but graduates are eligible to apply for professional certification through ACVREP (Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals).
Link to ACVREP website: http://www.acvrep.org/

N.B. Students who wish to complete a double major in RT and in Teaching Students with Visual Impairments (TSVI) would need a state teaching certificate to meet the eligibility requirements for the TSVI program. However, RT students can take TSVI courses as electives without having a state teaching certificate. Most of the TSVI courses are not available online, but may be in the future.

Teaching Students with Visual Impairments (TSVI)
Ms. Margaret Robinson, EdD Candidate, Program Coordinator
Emai: mcrobinson@ualr.edu
TSVI Web-site: http://www.ualr.edu/coedept/teached/emphasis_4.htm

BB. Is sign language a part of the RT coursework?

No, it is limited to an overview of Fingerspelling (the manual production of the 26 letters of the alphabet).

N.B. Students could take courses in the Master of Arts program, Teachers of Students Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH) as electives for the RT program requirements. Currently, most of the DHH courses are not available online, but may be in the future.

Teachers of Students Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH)
Pamela Broadston, EdD, Program Coordinator
EMail pmbroadston@ualr.edu
DHH Web-site: http://www.ualr.edu/coedept/teached/emphasis_2.htm

CC. Is it possible to earn a Master of Arts degree in Rehabilitation Teaching with an emphasis in Gerontology?

Students may take electives in Gerontology for the UALR RT program requirements and focus many of the course projects on gerontology related issues. Currently there is one online course offered in Gerontology (WebCT course delivery system) with more courses anticipated in the future:

GERO 5385 ST: Suicide and Self-Destruction [note: course number may change]

N.B. A Master of Arts in Gerontology and a Graduate Certificate in Gerontology [18 cr.hrs.] are available through the UALR Gerontology program. Currently, two more gerontology courses are currently being developed for on-line delivery.

Gerontology
Terry Richard, PhD, Program Coordinator
Email ttrichard@ualr.edu; (501) 569-3173
Gerontology Web-site: http://www.ualr.edu/ahmarks/id4.htm#core_courses_

DD. What kinds of job opportunities are available for graduates of the UALR RT program?

Rehabilitation Teachers are typically employed in a variety of agencies, schools, and organizations within federal, state, and private settings. Instructional delivery systems for rehabilitation teaching occur within both center-based programs (rehabilitation teaching is provided to clients at a rehabilitation facility) as well as itinerant teaching programs (client needs are addressed in the home environment or other nearby facility within driving distance). Employment scenarios can range from full-benefit receiving employees with traditional job responsibilities, to contract-based employment [usually without company benefits], with more flexible job requirements. Teaching responsibilities may be one-on-one and small group instruction or both and may cover a single subject (e.g. Braille) to an entire range of subjects and skills (e.g. Communications, Home Management, Personal Management, Basic Orientation and Mobility, and Recreation/Leisure).

The UALR RT program maintains a listing of potential jobs to assist students in seeking employment.

1. Link to website for Jobbank/Employment Resources for VI Professionals:

http://www.tsbvi.edu/programs/jobbank.htm

a. Listing of professionals looking for positions.

b. Post your information to the job bank.
c. Web Sites and Other Resources Listing Vacancies and Resumes
2. AER Job Exchange (Exchange available to members only):
http://www.aerbvi.org/general/benefits/job_exchange.htm

3. National Clearinghouse Rehabilitation Training Materials: Rehabilitation Recruitment Center:

http://www.nchrtm.okstate.edu/rrc/index.html

Alternative job markets for qualified Rehabilitation Teachers:

Specialist within an university disability support services department (internal to all colleges and universities within the U.S.); University faculty or support staff for a university degree program in Rehabilitation Teaching; Member of a medical team (e.g., consultant/staff at eye clinic; low vision specialist, adaptive devices specialist); Retirement center staff (e.g., recreation director, independent living specialist); Consultant or other organizational representative (e.g., advocacy for disability legislation enforcement); Leadership and/or supervisory position (for experienced RT's).

N.B. Doctoral degrees may be preferred for advancement into certain key leadership positions. Suitable doctoral degree programs are available at other universities (currently, UALR does not offer a doctorate program directly related to the profession of Rehabilitation Teaching.) Contact the RT Program Coordinator if additional information is desired. (pbsmith@ualr.edu)

EE. What would a typical salary be for an RT program graduate?

According to a survey in the fall of 2000, targeting agency directors, Rehabilitation Teacher salaries range from a low of $20,000 to a high of $50,000, depending on the particular agency, type of job, and experience level of the teacher.

FF. How are UALR graduation activities handled? What is required for graduation?

Students must successfully complete all required courses and maintain an overall 30 G.P.A.
A minimum of a "B" or better is required for key RT courses.

N.B. Students must apply for graduation. The process is not automatic; applications for graduation should be submitted upon successful completion of all courses prior to beginning the internship semester. Participation in the commencement ceremony is not required; however, many students have expressed surprise at the positive feeling they had after participating in commencement. It gave them a wonderful feeling of success and closure for all the hard work they had done.

10. Links to RT related sites

a. ACVREP (Academy for the Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professions):

http://www.acvrep.org/

b. AER (Association for the Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired):

http://www.aerbvi.org/

c. AER Listserv: This is the largest listserv dedicated to all areas of visual impairments, with an emphasis on educational issues. If you want to subscribe to the AER listserv, send an e-mail message to majordomo@list.pitt.edu

In the body of your message write: <subscribe aernet>

For more information see http://www.dil.sched.pitt.edu/aernet/

d. Association of Vision Science Librarians (AVSL): A comprehensive topical listing of publications, web-sites, and other resources related to vision and vision loss.
http://webeye.ophth.uiowa.edu/dept/websites/eyeres.htm

e. National Rehabilitation Teaching site (website of the professional organization of the AER-RT division):

http://www.rehabilitationteaching.org/

f. The RT Listserv:

http://www.rehabilitationteaching.org/rtlistserv.htm

g. Blist: The Comprehensive Index of Blindness-Related Emailing Lists:

http://www.hicom.net/~oedipus/blist.html

h. Other Blind-related links and publications:

http://www.rehabilitationteaching.org/publications.htm

i. National Clearinghouse Rehabilitation Training Materials: Rehabilitation Recruitment Center:
http://www.nchrtm.okstate.edu/rrc/index.html
j. Jobbank/Employment Resources for VI Professionals:

http://www.tsbvi.edu/programs/jobbank.htm

k. JAN (Job Accommodation Network):

http://www.jan.wvu.edu/links/adalinks.htm

l. Hall of Fame for Leaders and Legends of the Blindness Field

http://www.aph.org/hall_fame/hofindex.html

M. Low Vision Information Data Base (Compiled by Gregory Goodrich, Ph.D.):

http://www.visionconnection.org

Back to Top

Return to the main RHBL Homepage: Link to the UALR RHBL Homepage

Link to Orientation and Mobility website: http://www.teletrain.com/ualr/om/

Link to Rehabilitation Counseling website: http://www.teletrain.com/ualr/

Link to UALR Homepage: http://www.ualr.edu/www/index.htmlx