A Project of

Self Advocates Becoming Empowered

With contributions made by self advocates, 

Project Advisory Committee and NTAC for 

Voting and Cognitive Access Vote Team

This Logistics Project Funded by

Copyright © 2014 

by Self Advocates Becoming Empowered. 

All rights reserved.

SABE

PO Box 12239

Florence, SC 29504

sabenation@gmail.com

My Technology 

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My Technology 

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My Technology

Handbook

Using my computer, 

accessories and skills

September, 2014
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Table of Contents

Topic Page Number

HOW TO USE THIS HANDBOOK 8

PEOPLE WE LIKE TO THANK 9

EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSIBILITY 12

SECURITY: Identity and Internet Safety 26

SMART PHONES 31

NEWSLETTERS 41

EMAIL 44

WEBSITES 48

BLOGGING 53

Blogging 54

Vlogging 62

SOCIAL MEDIA 67

Facebook 68

Twitter 75

Skype 84

TELECONFERENCING 88

Google Hangout 96

Gotomeeting 102

GoToWebinar 108

CONCLUSION 115

WORDS YOU NEED TO KNOW 117
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WHY WE WROTE THIS BOOK

Okay, we live in the 21st century and 

questions you might be asking yourself are:

I want to use the technology available to 

me, but I still have not learned the skills I 

need to do it. How do I learn about these 

things?

How do I find the right computer, tablet, 

smart phone, apps and programs that will 

work best for me?

How do I stay safe when using my 

computer?

How do I learn about security options?

And then, there is the internet.

No one is using the telephone anymore just 

to talk. They say they have all these “apps” 

and different kinds of phones that do everything from letting me ask it to call someone, 

to telling me how much money I have in my 

bank account. Can I really learn how to do 

all that?

And then, we have the social media craze 
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(Facebook, Twitter, and Skype, oh my!), so 

how do I become a part of it? I see others 

sharing their opinions. I want to let people 

know what I think too. I do not want to be 

left out anymore. Can this Blogging and 

Vlogging that everyone is talking about 

work for me?

My employer and the community groups I 

volunteer with are using technology instead 

of having face-to-face meetings, so how 

can I learn it? What is a Google Hangout? 

And how do I GoToMeeting?

To help you do this and more, The 

Administration on Intellectual and 

Developmental Disabilities (AIDD) 

has funded Self Advocates Becoming 

Empowered (SABE) as well as SABE’s 

National Technical Assistance Center for 

Voting and Cognitive Access to help you 

become users of this type of computer 

and communication technology. SABE has 

developed this Handbook based on the 

experiences of people with disabilities. 

We believe that you will find MY 

TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK easy and fun 

to use. You can even write personal notes 

in it to help you remember what works best 
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for you. But, in order for you to become 

confident in using this technology, you must 

practice! 

Do not skip over the chapter on Safety and 

Security! We want you to learn how to use 

your equipment and develop skills as well 

as for you to use them safely and wisely.

In closing, we want to hear from you about 

your experiences in using technology. If 

you have any questions or great ideas 

for this Handbook, please contact us at 

sabenation@gmail.com

Good luck, practice and have fun!

The SABE 

MY TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK 

Team

• Juliana Huereña (Phoenix, AZ)

• Teresa Moore (Phoenix, AZ)

• Essie Pederson (Cincinnati, OH)
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HOW TO USE THIS 

HANDBOOK

Welcome to MY TECHNOLOGY 

HANDBOOK, it was written to help you 

understand the world of computers and 

technology. The materials are presented 

so that someone who has never used 

technology may be able to do so with 

confidence. 

Our top priority as we wrote MY 

TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK was to make 

it meaningful to new technology users. 

To help you best use this handbook, we 

have included definitions and helpful hints. 

When the blue bubble appears on a page, 

it will include a helpful hint about the topic 

being discussed. We have also included 

“hyperlinks” from words that are highlighted 

to a definition of what the word means or 

it will take you to the chapter that explains 

how to learn the skill. You will also notice 

that each topic has a space for you to 

make personal notes at the end of each 

topic; and, resources are listed for more 

information. 
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PEOPLE WE LIKE TO THANK

MY TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK explains 

how to use the computer, accessories 

and the skills needed to connect with 

the internet and to other computer and 

communication devices and programs. 

This information will assist you to find 

important information and people on the 

internet and people. The Administration on 

Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities 

(AIDD) provided support to Self Advocates 

Becoming Empowered (SABE) as well 

as SABE’s National Technical Assistance 

Center for Voting and Cognitive Access to 

develop this handbook that you can make 

your own. 

Special Thanks To

SABE would like to especially thank Aaron 

Bishop, Commissioner of AIDD for listening 

to us when we expressed how important 

this knowledge is to people with disabilities 

and for supporting our goal to create an 

easy to use and understand Technology 

Handbook. We look forward in working with 

AIDD to continue improving the lives of 

people with intellectual and developmental 

disabilities.
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SABE’s National Technical Assistance 

Center for Voting and Cognitive Access 

wishes to thank the National Disability 

Rights Network (NDRN), especially 

Michelle Bishop, for supporting the 

development of this handbook. NDRN 

supports voters with disabilities becoming 

familiar with technology. By using the 

internet, voters can register to vote and 

become well-informed voters who know 

their voting rights.

 

Thanks to the 2012-2014 SABE Board 

of Directors, especially Bryon Murray, 

President, for making sure people with 

disabilities have access to the technology, 

equipment, and skills to continue their 

leadership roles. The opinions, ideas and 

concerns of all people must be heard to 

make sure they lead independent, inclusive, 

self-determined lives. 

Michelle Bishop

Bryon Murray
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Written By

• Juliana Huereña, SABE’s Technology 

Handbook Coordinator and National 

Advisor

• Teresa Moore, SABE Website 

Coordinator and NTAC for Voting and 

Cognitive Access Technology Coordinator

• Essie Pederson, Co-Director of SABE’s 

NTAC for Voting and Cognitive Access

Technical Advisors

• Bill Lucero, Youth Action Council of 

Arizona-member, AZ

• Sarah Park, International Technical 

Designer, CA

• Robin Lunceford, Alabama Disabilities 

Advocacy Program, AL

In Consultation with

• Eric Treat, SABE Board Member and 

Our Community Standing Strong (OCSS) 

Advisory member, AK

• Nancy Ward, Co-Director of SABE’s 

NTAC for Voting and Cognitive Access 

and OCSS Advisory member. OK

• Richard Chapman, SABE’s OCSS 

Advisory Member, FL 

• Tia Nelis, SABE’s NTAC for Voting & 

Cognitive Access, IL

• Vicki Hicks Turnage, Co-Director of Our 

Community Standing Strong, AL
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Equipment 

and

Accessibility
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Equipment 

Every day we use all kinds of equipment 

and accessories to connect with others.

We use low technology and high 

technology equipment. What does that 

mean? Low tech would be something you 

find in your house; like: pens, paper, your 

landline phone, answering machine, and 

TV with remote. 

High tech equipment would be equipment 

that most of us are not as familiar with and 

have to learn how to use. 

There are many reasons for this. For 

example, in the past, computers were 

expensive and hard to use, nowadays, 

computers are not as expensive and are 

friendly to use. Some examples of high 

tech equipment include: computer, laptops, 

tablets, and smartphones. 

You have a choice of can choose to use all 

kinds of equipment often called devices

and programs. In this handbook, we will 

talk about several common devices, and 

operating systems you can use. 

How many other 

low technology

equipment can 

you think of ?

______________

______________

______________

______________

______________

______________

How many other 

high technology

equipment can 

you think of ?

______________

______________

______________

______________

______________

______________
Accessories

Many of us use our technology equipment 

to communicate with friends, family, coworkers or even to gather information from 

the internet. However to do this, specific 

accessories might need to be added to your 

computer.

 Adding accessories 

 to your equipment 

 can help meet 

 your individual 

 needs for accessibility 

features and make the equipment work 

better. Possible accessories to think about 

are: a webcam, speakers, headset and 

microphone, mouse, storage cards or 

flash drives, device cases, extra battery, 

chargers and software programs.

Webcam and Speakers

Many laptops have webcams, microphone 

and speakers already built into the 

computer. If you have an older computer, 

you may need to buy one. 

Find where the speaker’s settings are 

located on your equipment so you can 

turn them on high enough so you can hear 

the other person or group talking. You 

can change this setting by going to your 

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.....need to explain how

You can change this setting by: 

1. going to your start menu, 

2. go to control panel, and 

3. then go to hardware. 

There you will find the webcam, speaker, 

and microphone device. Once your 

computer downloads the required software 

so your webcam works with your computer, 

you are now ready to learn how to use the 

features. You will need to see where you 

can increase or decrease the volume for 

the speakers and the microphone. You will 

probably want to know what else you have 

control of when using the webcam.

Microphones

Many laptops and tablets have built-in 

microphones. If you cannot hear clearly 

when suing using your microphone, you 

can change the setting of your microphone 

by going to your control panel and click 

sound or on your tablets, tap on settings.

Headphones are used to hear the speaker 

better and to keeps you focused, as well as 

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others will not have to hear the discussion. 

Headphones today are small and compact 

and can be inexpensive or expensive, 

depending on the brand and the quality of 

sound you want.

If you are in a loud room, please use your 

mute button on the computer or smartphone 

or *6 on your landline phone.

Mouse 

A mouse is a corded or wireless device that 

moves your computer’s pointer while you 

move the mouse.

You can go to the control panel, go to 

devices, then mouse setting and slow your 

pointer down, change the size and the 

image of the pointer.

NOTES:

___________________________________

___________________________________

___________________________________

___________________________________

Internet

The World Wide Web (WWW) opened 

new doors of possibilities for technology 

users. Before the internet you had to read 

information in the local newspapers, hear 
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it on the radio, attend community meetings 

or lectures, or watch the advertisements 

between your favorite shows. 

Now you can use the internet 

to research hot topics, find 

people and family members 

from the past, view other’s opinion 

on issues, and do some research 

about candidates and their views on 

issues that affect your life. You can even 

buy things, like food, clothing, appliances, 

computers, and accessories, and then have 

them delivered to your home.

Operating system

For your computer to work at its best, it is 

important to keep your Operating system

up to date. Your computer will let you know 

when there are updates ready for you to 

install. 

You will have the option to do

 automatic updates or you 

can choose to view and 

update later. Many times the updates 

will occur when you turn on or off your 

computer. 

It will be helpful to find out what system 

your computer is using. To do this, go to 
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your Start Menu go to Control Panel. Go 

to Systems and it will tell you what you 

have.

For later use, write down what system your 

computer has: ______________________

The reason to know this is because 

sometimes before you can download and 

 use certain programs you 

 will be asked if your computer, 

 laptop or tablet have the 

 ability to use the program’s 

 features. For example, 

 GoToWebinar will tell you 

 what system requirements it 

has. It requires that you have 

Windows 7, VISTA, XP, or 2003, and now 

you will know if your system has it.

If you need to upgrade your operating 

system, you may need to purchase it.

Battery

Always know how much battery power your 

device has!

Technical Support

Technical support resources are important 

for you to have. Who can you think of 

that knows a lot about technology and you 
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can connect with them anytime? It can be 

someone close by; it can also be a family 

member. They can help you when there 

is an update available or trouble-shoot

problems.

It is important to find someone you can 

trust; and write their name down and put on 

a post-it. Keep it close to your computer. 

Another way is to connect with the software 

program technical assistance support line. 

Practice, Practice, Practice

When buying equipment

Ask yourself: What’s important to me? 

Calling or texting, taking pictures, videos, 

listening to music, social media, games, 

looking for things on the internet.

Ask the salesperson: Where do I find 

the power button or the volume control 

buttons? I am just learning about apps, 

which ones do you have or recommend? 

Does the device work with Google 

Hangouts, Gotomeeting, etc?

Practice, practice, practice

Answer these questions on all of your 

devices. Make a list of questions to ask at 
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the store. Then practice, practice , practice 

asking the questions to a friend. They may 

also help you think of other questions to 

ask at the store. Devices look and work 

differently. If someone has a different 

device than you, ask them to show you how 

it works before you buy yours. 

ACCESSIBILITY

You will get the most use out of your 

equipment and programs if you personalize 

them to meet YOUR needs. Each device 

has ways to personalize them and make 

them accessible and more user friendly 

for you. You need to consider how well 

you, see, hear and move around when you 

buy a device and when you choose your 

programs and apps.

 

Questions to ask yourself when you are 

customizing your devices are: 

• How well do I see? 

• Do I need a larger font to see the 

alphabet letters or a larger monitor 

screen? 

• If my vision is poor, would a screen 

reader help me to better use my 

computer?. 
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to tell a story or replacing words helps me 

use my device better. 

• If you have problems using parts of your 

body like your arms and hands, you 

might want to think about using some 

of the accessories we already talked 

about.

SPEAKING AND READING 

PROGRAMS

There are software programs that make 

information accessible for computer users 

who cannot see or understand words. 

These are call screen readers. These 

programs have the ability to read the words 

out loud for the user. There are a number 

of these types of programs available that 

you can learn about by doing an on-line 

search. If you are interested in using this 

technology it is important that you find the 

one that will work best for you. Take the 

time to test them out to make sure they will 

meet your needs. Also, many states have 

an Assistive Technology Specialist you 

might want to speak to get suggestions and 

recommendations.

Microsoft Word has an accessibility feature 

for screen readers if the documents only 
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contain text, no photos, no graphs and no 

clipart. 

The screen reader may not work if the 

picture does not have a description 

embedded (hidden in the program)

It may also be helpful to have someone 

who uses a screen reader show you how 

it works before you decide on a reader for 

you. 

Tips to make your documents 

accessible

1. Consider the type and size of font

All documents we make, including 

PowerPoint, must use a sans serif font such 

as: 

Arial

This is Arial font. 

Tahoma

This is Tahoma font.

Verdana

This is Verdana font. 

A Font not to use is Times New Roman 

because it is NOT as clear as others and 
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easy to read. Your ability to read the letters 

of a font is as important as the size.

The recommended minimum font size: 

• 14 point for regular print copies

• 18 point for large print copies

• 24 point for PowerPoint slides 

2. Backgrounds

A light colored background with dark text 

is the preferred way for documents to look. 

For some people, red writing is hard to 

read.

Using a plain background without any 

watermarks or designs behind the text is 

best for people with visual problems to see. 

Fancy backgrounds like below are too busy 

and distracting for many readers.
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3. PDF

 Documents converted to Adobe PDF 

format may or may not be accessible.

To check if an Adobe PDF document is 

accessible, click on the “Select Text” icon.

If you can select the text with your mouse, 

then the document is accessible. If you 

are unable to do so, the document is not 

accessible. 

4. Add pictures

4. Add pictures

The use of pictures in a document will 

make the document accessible. 

Whenever possible use a real photograph 

rather than a cartoon figure.
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5. Using tables and graphs

Tables can make information more 

accessible for readers because it can 

break that information down into short 

descriptions that are easier to see and 

understand. Also when numbers or 

percentages are talked about it is 

often easier to understand then when 

placed in a chart or in a table. 

 
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SECURITY:

Identity and

Internet 

Safety
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SECURITY: Identity and 

Internet Safety

Your personal security and identify is very 

important to protect. It is estimated that 

every day in the United States over 21 

million have their identity stolen. Stolen 

identities allow hackers to use your credit 

cards to purchase items, get into your 

banking accounts to withdraw money, 

and learn your passwords to get into your 

computer and learn personal information 

about you. Hackers use many ways to get 

this information. 

For example, if someone tries to sell you 

an item on the telephone or computer that 

is too good to be true then it is probably not 

a good idea to purchase it. These people 

usually are eager to ask for your credit 

card or your banking information. NEVER

assume you can trust just anyone with your 

personal information.

Do not share your password, bank 

numbers, social security number, and your 

home address especially if it is someone 

you do not know. 
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Internet red flags

• Requests for specific personal 

information. Remember, banks will never 

ask you to reply to an email with any 

personal information such as your Social 

Security number, ATM or PIN number.

• Urgent appeals. These are often email 

messages saying that your account may 

be closed if you do not respond now 

to check on your personal information. 

Banks will NEVER ask you to check your 

information this way!

• System and security messages. This 

type of message often says that the bank 

needs to make sure important information 

about you must be updated on-line. 

Banks will NEVER ask you to check your 

information this way!

Email Safety Tips

• Offers that sound too good to be 

true might ask you to fill out a short 

customer service survey. If you 

do, they say they will give you money 

credited to your account. They will ask 

you to provide your account number for 

proper routing of the supposed credit. The 

bank will never ask for this information.
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• Misspellings and grammatical errors

in emails, often are a sign of fake emails 

or websites. Be on the lookout for words 

spelled wrong or strange writing.

• Odd-looking Uniform Resource 

Locator (URL). The long blue writing. 

Many mail programs will display the URL 

of a link when you place your cursor on 

the link. 

Do not click the link. 

An example of an URL: 

bankofamerica.suspicious.com

It will take you to a page suspicious.com 

site, not the Bank of America site, even 

though Bank of America is used as part of 

the URL.

Messaging Tips

• Don’t put something you do not want 

your boss to know on Facebook and 

twitter pages.

• Don’t talk rude to people.

• Don’t tell people your day to day 

schedule, like work or doctor visits or 

that you are on vacation.
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A note about passwords

• Change your password regularly, 

 every 4 months or so. 

• At least 15 characters recommend

• Do not use 1234567890

• Do not use your birthdate

• Do not use any anniversary dates

• Use a combination of UPPERCASE, 

lowercase, numbers, symbols, 

 Example: Self#123?*
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SMART

PHONES
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SMART PHONES

Each and every smart phone is not the 

same. The most commonly used phones 

are the Android phones and the iPhones. 

Microsoft and Amazon have phones, but 

they are not as commonly used, so we 

will not cover them. If you are interested 

in these phones, you can find additional 

information on their websites.

What are applications or apps?

A program designed to serve a specific 

purpose. For example, if you need a 

flashlight, there is an for that. 

 We all wish that all apps 

 were available for all phones. 

 Unfortunately, many 

 applications are only available on one 

version of a phone. 

There are different categories of apps 

from flashlights to dictionaries to music to 

calendars to maps to games to social media 

sites. And still more categories include 

finances, healthy living, and books. Many 

are free but some cost anywhere from 

$0.99 up to $14.99.
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Android OS Phones

When you purchase a phone you may need 

to create a Gmail account. 

This will help keep your contacts saved 

online so if anything should happen 

to your phone, you have a backup 

with Google.

If you already have a current 

GMAIL account, then you can 

sign into your phone with that account. 

If not, you will have to create an account. 

You can learn how to do that at the email 

section.
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How to download apps on the Google 

play store

Tap your screen with your finger, 

(Touch the screen at the Play Store)

• There are plenty of free apps, but if you 

would like to purchase an app, follow 

these steps.

• You may need to have your credit card 

saved in the Google Play Store, have 

a Google Play Gift Card purchased at 

a store or on-line, or have the charges 

added to your cell phone bill. 

Examples: current music, movies, and 

games 

You can now browse the Play Store
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How to search for apps

• You can tap the magnify glass on the 

top right corner to search apps, music, 

movies and books.

• You can type the item you want in.

• You can tap the app of your choice to 

download. 

• Read the reviews and look for: Rating

• Read others comments to see if it is 

something you want.

• If you download and you do not like it, 

you can remove (uninstall) the app.
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Cell phone bill

Your services provider may charge you for 

Data usage when you are downloading 

apps.
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• Buyer beware: Contract phones, from 

some companies are not a good choice 

as they often have hidden fees and 

charge more than advertised. 

• When purchasing a phone always ask 

for a list of other charges, talk to the 

salesperson and have them to print a list 

and tell them what you want to do with 

the phone. 

• (Example: play games, talk to a friend for 

a hour a day, make pictures, etc.)

• Make sure that your contract covers what 

you want to do so you are not paying 

more.
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SMART PHONES: 

Apps On iPhones 

When you purchase a new 

iPhone

You will be asked to log or sign in

or create an account. If you have 

owned an iPhone or any other 

Apple product in the past, you will 

already have an Apple ID account, 

it will have your contacts, music 

and apps.

How to download apps on the 

App Store

• Tap App Store 

• When you purchase an iPhone 

you may need to create an Apple 

account. This will help keep 

your contacts saved online so if 

anything should happen to your 

phone, you have a backup.
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account. You can learn how to do that by 

reviewing how to create a Gmail account

• If not, you will have to create an account. 

You can learn how to do that at the email 

section. 

 You can now browse 

 the Apple Store. 

Purchases

When you purchase an app it will ask you if 

you want to buy the app and then it will ask 

for your Apple ID.

If you do not want to purchase, press 

cancel.

Tips

• Make sure you save your contacts before 

you buy a new phone.

• When you transfer phones, your contacts 

may not be saved, even when your 

carrier helps you out. 
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your contacts on your phone and not in 

your Gmail or Apple account online. 

This can get very technical and will require 

a SIM card. Remember the “post it note” 

you made with the name and phone 

number of someone to help you,

Call them !!! 
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NEWSLETTERS
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Newsletter

In the past, Newsletters were 

sent by the mail. You could 

be very creative, add photos 

to keep others informed 

about what the organization 

or groups were doing. But 

as soon as that newsletter 

was placed in the mail, it was 

out of date or “old news”. 

Information changes that 

quickly, but now we have a 

way to easily keep readers 

up-to-date. 

With internet technology, On-
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line Newsletters can easily be 

updated to keep the reader 

almost instantly informed of 

new developments.

Changes and new information 

can be added easily so the 

reader knows the information 

is the most reliable. For 

example, if the newsletter has 

a call to action, readers can 

quickly and easily respond.

Newsletter templates can 

be found in Microsoft Word 

templates or publisher 

templates.
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EMAIL
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EMAIL

• You can use email communicate with 

others instantaneously.

• Share documents with others.

• Get announcements and confirmations.

• Send a longer message than a text. 

Finding an email site to use.

• Most email sites will ask you the same 

questions to sign up with their service. 

We will cover a few of them here.

GMAIL 

• Go to mail.google.com and sign up

• Create an account

• You will be asked a few questions to create an email account. 

You will need:

1. Your first and last name.

2. Create a Username (name you will use).

3. Create an 8 character password and 

 confirm password.
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4. Your birthdate.

5. Your gender.

6. Your mobile phone (cellphone) is 

 optional.

7. Current email, in case you lose your 

 Gmail and need to recover.

Captcha: These strange looking letters and 

numbers are used as a type of security. It 

also lets the account know that you are a 

real person and not a robot.

8. Location: USA.

9. Read the terms.

10. Click on box for Agree to the terms.
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To set up your profile

1. Add a picture, if you like.

2. Click next.

3. Google will send you information to your 

 current email.

4. Continue with Gmail.

5. It will take you to your new Gmail 

 account.

Add friends and family.

You can label them as: 

• friends 

• family 

• co-workers 

• you can create 

 a custom group
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WEBSITES
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The Internet is made up of many websites. 

Each website contains different information. 

There are many types of websites. 

Websites are for businesses, blogs, social 

media sites and gaming websites.

Getting there

To get to a website type the website name 

into the bar on your internet browser.

• No need to type http://www 

 

• Just the “websitename.com” and press 

enter. 

• Your website will load.

Search

What if you cannot remember the name of 

the website?

• Simply type in the ‘keywords’ of what you 

think is in the website name in the top 

box and a Google search will occur.
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No need to go to Google.com or another 

search engine. Just type in the search 

terms you want into your text box and 

search happens automatically.

There are other search engines like Google 

that you can use to find the information 

you are looking for on the Internet. You 

can use Bing, Yahoo or other search sites. 

These search engines allow us to learn 

more about topics or get answers to our 

questions. When researching or looking 

for information, you should use keywords to 

describe what you are looking for. 
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Search tips

• Keep your search terms or words simple

• Usually your wanted results will be on 

page 1

• Mix it up. If you don’t see what you 

 need in your first search, try new terms.

• http://www.google.com/insidesearch/

tipstricks/

• Know what information you want to get 

and tailor your keywords around that,

• Opening Times or store hours

• “About us” section

• Contacts

• a blog about issues important to the 

company.

• The recipe for dish to make for 

dinner.
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On the website

Once on your website read the top and side 

bars for menus. If you are looking for a time 

a place is open, usually that will be under 

the menu title: hours or info.

Click into that menu.

You should not have to click into a website 

more than twice to get the information you 

need.
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Web site safety examples

• Do not give out your credit card 

information unless you are ordering 

something from a site you know is good.

• Never give out your checking account 

information. 

• Never give out any passwords. 

Website safety tips

• Remember anyone can create a 

 website, so you want to be careful 

 on giving out your personal information 

 to any website.

• Look for https 

 That “s” at the end 

 means secure 

• If it feels wrong, look for a 

 phone number.

• Most reputable sites will 

 have a phone number for 

 you to call
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BLOGGING

Blogging and Vlogging
Blogging

A blog is a personal website that you can 

create to tell your personal story or share 

ideas with other people on a regular basis. 

It is a way for you to express and share your 

opinions and feelings with others. You can 

share your name or keep your identity a 

secret when writing your blog.

People who read your blog can comment 

on your story or ideas. This is a way to 

begin a discussion with them if they want 

to share their thoughts and their personal 

experiences that relate to your story.

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The cool thing about blogging is that it can 

be done in many ways. You can type your 

story, videotape it (Vlogging) or even some 

computers have a way you can use your 

own voice to tell your story. 

Why blog?

There are many reasons to blog. The 

biggest reason is that you can share your 

experiences and see if others have had 

similar things happen to them. 

You can stay in touch with people, like 

other members of yourself advocacy group, 

friends, family, and more. 
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You can feel free to express your thoughts 

and opinions about an issue without 

anyone else telling you what or how to say 

it.

You can start a conversation with people 

you know or even people you might not 

know.

You can ask a question and get many 

answers.

 

Tips for starting your blog entry

• Decide what you want to write about.

• Make it short and to the point.

• Create separate entries for each new 

topic.

• Pick your audience.

• Is this an entry that you want to share 

with people you know and do not know, 

or is it a story you want to share only with 

your friends?

• Always use respectful words (words can 

hurt).
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• What you think is funny might not be 

funny to someone else, use your words 

and pictures carefully (If not this could be 

a form of “Cyber-Bullying”).

Different Ways to Use Blogging

Blogging is another way we can let people 

know our personal ideas about an issue or 

situation. Not everyone will agree with what 

you have to say.You have a responsibility 

to respect what others say but you can also 

give more information explaining why you 
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feel the way you do. Ultimately everyone 

will make their own decision.

When writing your blog write about things 

you know about, for example use a 

personal story to make your point.

FREE PLACES TO BLOG

• Blog Spot Google 

• Tumblr.com

• Facebook 

• WordPress

• Editorial section in newsletters 

• Blog.com

You can go to many of these websites and 

sign up to create a blog. They will have 

standard layouts and themes for you to 
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pick. Remember what your blog looks like is 

not as important as what you have to say.

Topics for self-advocacy group blogging

There are many ideas that you can get from

your own life on what to talk about. Below 

are ideas that can also get you thinking 

about what to write about. 

• Share information from SABE news and 

your region. 

• Share ideas that you learned from others 

in your local group.

• Share a time that you overcame an 

obstacle and hints for how others can 

follow your lead.

• Talk about a political issue and your 

views on it.

• What has worked for your self-advocacy 

group.

• Near Election Day, talk about the 

importance of voting, how to register to 

vote, and more.
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There are many other topics that you can 

write about. When preparing to write your 

blog, help yourself by staying on topic and 

just covering one or two points. 

Vlogging

What are video blogs or Vlogs

A vlog is a blog that is primarily in video 

format. 

It can be:

• One idea or person.

• One person or a group 

 of people talking about 

 an issue.

• Interviewing someone.

• Problem solving a situation

 by using “Before and 

 After” scenarios.

Example of a video blog outline

Before pressing record on your video camera, come up with an idea and outline what 

you are going to discuss. This will allow 

your vlog to be organized and easy to understand.
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Here is a list of things to consider when 

starting your vlog.

• Title of your piece – what do you plan on 

talking about or covering.

• Introduce yourself and others that are 

talking on your video.

• Introduction of your topic by giving a brief 

overview

• Discuss your topic.

• Close your discussion.

• Thank those that helped you.

There are many places on the internet that 

you can get help on how to create your video blog. Below are a few places to start. 

SABE’s Our Community Standing Strong

Regional Technical Assistance Center has 

a PowerPoint and Webinar about Blogging. 

To find it, go to: 

• www.sabeusa.org
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• http://www.wikihow.com/Make-aGreat-First-Vlog

• http://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-DailyYouTube-Vlog

THINGS NEEDED TO 

VIDEO BLOG

Now that you have your topic and 

your outline ready, it’s time to start 

recording. There are many things 

that you need to create your blog. 

Hardware

Vlogging starts by having equipment in 

good working condition. A video camera, 

is needed to record you. There are many 

devices you can use, like your cell phone, 

tablet or computer webcam. Remember 

they all must be able to connect to your 

computer and put the recording file there.

To see if your device works, create a quick 

recording and watch and listen. If you are 

clearly seen and heard, you have the right 

camera

You will need a computer or tablet to 

upload your video to your vlog website. The 

computer will be connected to the internet. 
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Software

Your computer may come with software 

that allows you to edit your video. The 

edits can include getting rid of some of the 

recording. As you get better at this part, 

then you can add subtitles and different 

special effects. Remember what you have 

to say is the most important part, so the 

effects are not as important. 

Options of software that can be purchased 

to edit your recording. These vary in cost 

and have many features. 

• iMovie (requires Apple Computer)

• Window share 

• Movie Maker

Important Tips for video blogging

Keep your videos short - no more 

than 3- 5 minutes long 

Make sure the location you 

record your video is well lit, 

not cluttered, and has a pleasant 

background. You do not want your 
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viewers to be distracted by looking

at messy desk rather than listening

to what is being said.

Before you start, check your recording 

volume so that you can be heard clearly 

and accurately when playing back on 

speakers

PRACTICE using the camera 

before your first taping and then 

PRACTICE some more.

Example of a video blog

SABE -Ashley x

http://www.youtube.com/

watch?v=Be1eYxtvVNE

Places to post your video blog

Remember SABE has a YouTube 

channel you could consider to post 

your vlog. Search for the Self Advocates 

Becoming Empowered Channel. 
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Other SABE options and other sites you 

could use are: 

• SABE Website www.sabeusa.org

• SABE Facebook page Self Advocates 

Becoming Empowered

• Tumblr

• WordPress

You can make your vlog more accessible 

by adding closed captions. The internet 

can teach you how to do this.
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SOCIAL 

MEDIA
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Facebook

Social Media is an online website where 

people can gather and share information, 

photos, videos and other forms of media 

with each other. Social Media is a way you 

can build relationship from the comfort 

of your home or favorite WIFI Hotspot. 

Social Media allows you to stay in touch 

with friends, family and strangers. You can 

also use it to network with associates and 

colleagues. Social Media is the new form of 

communication. 

In My Technology Handbook we will 

talk about Facebook, Twitter, Skype, 

Teleconferencing, Google Hangout, 

GoToMeeting and GoToWebinar. There 

are other social meeting programs not 

discussed in this handbook that we 

encourage to research by using the internet 

as discussed in the previous Website 

Chapter.
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What is Facebook?

It is currently the most popular of many 

social networking sites. 

People use Facebook to keep up with 

what their friends are doing. You can share 

updates, photos and videos about yourself, 

get “Likes” or comments on your post from 

friends and can have a text or group chat 

with a lot of friends or just a few of your 

select friends.

How to join Facebook?

Go to www.facebook.com

• Facebook will ask questions for you to 

answer like what is your name and email 

address

• Next you will be asked to create a 

password to join Facebook. 
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NEW password,

do not reuse 

passwords

• Over time as 

you open more

accounts you 

will be asked for more passwords. 

Sometimes it is hard to remember all 

of your different passwords. Some 

people find it helpful to create a 

PRIVATE notebook or paper to list your 

usernames and passwords.

 How to create an account

 You will be asked to write 

 down the letters or numbers 

 you see in the captcha. 

 Facebook wants to make sure 

 you are a person and not a 

 computer trying to talk to 

 another computer.
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Profile and a Photo of You

Your profile or personal Facebook page 

can have a photo to show people who you 

are. Take or upload a picture that you want 

people to see or recognize you. If you are 

not comfortable putting a snapshot of yourself, you do not have to. Some people use 

pictures of their children, dog, cat, flowers or even a photo of a place they love, 

instead of a personal photo. Since this is 

your personal page, you get to decide what 

you want to do. 

You will see a list of other questions for you 

to answer in your profile, but you do not 

have to answer them. You must be careful 

not to give too much information because 

people you do not know might contact you. 

To be safe, you might want to discuss how 
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 much information to share with a

 family member or friend. 

You will also want to make sure 

your privacy settings are where 

you feel comfortable. Many people 

only allow their friends to see 

anything other than their name 

and profile photo. The friends that 

you have on Facebook have to be 

approved by you first before they 

can see your personal information. 

What you can do on Facebook?

• Post information: You can post a daily 

quote, share what you are doing, where 

you are at this very moment, share that 

your cat had kittens, announce the date 

and time of your next self-advocacy 

group meeting and much more.

• Invitations: On Facebook you can invite 

people to an event like SABE’s 2014 

National Conference in Oklahoma or a 

birthday party. You can invite all your 

Facebook friend, only a select few or 

even everyone on Facebook!

• Advertise or announce an upcoming 

event: Some groups use Facebook to let 

people know when their next meetings 
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will be or even if the meeting had to be 

cancelled at the last minute.

• Ask questions: Before you decide to go 

to an event, ask questions to make sure 

it is something you want to sign up for or 

let your friends know about. You 

can also ask questions on your 

status and have a group 

discussion in the comments. 

• Safety: When using any 

website like Facebook, make 

sure you only share information 

that you are comfortable a stranger 

will know. For more information about 

Facebook safety, visit their page.

 https://www.facebook.com/safety

7 easy steps to posting to Facebook

• Step 1: Open your Facebook page.
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• Step 2: On the top of the page you will 

see an ‘Update Status’ Box.

• Step 3: Click in the post.

• Step 4: It will ask, “What’s on your 

 mind?” Move your mouse curser into 

 the box and start to type.

• Step 5: If you want to add a picture or 

video, click on the add photos/Video 

button. 

• Step 6: Go to where the picture is or 

select from your photo collection and 

select.

• Step 7: Click on the small blue button 

that says Post.
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TWITTER
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Twitter

What is Twitter?

Twitter is an online social networking website that allows people to send and read 

tweets, which are messages, limited to 140 

characters. 

Only registered users can read and post 

tweets from the people and networks that 

they are following. 

Unregistered users can only read them. 
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How do you join Twitter and make a new 

account?

To create an account:

Step 1: Go to http://twitter.com and find 

the sign up box, or go directly to https://

twitter.com/signup.

Step 2: Enter your full name, email address, and create a password.

Step 3: Click Sign up for Twitter.
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Step 4: Select a username (for example 

NEATPeertoPeer) - type your own or 

choose from the names twitter 

Step 5: Double-check your name, email 

address, password, and username. 

Step 6: Click Create my account.

Step 7: Twitter will send a confirmation 

email to the address you entered on sign 

up, click the link in that email to confirm 

your email address and account.

Step 8: Write your first Tweet.
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What is a tweet? 

• A Tweet is a posting made on the 

social network Twitter that is only 140 

characters. 

• It’s usually sharing a thought, a feeling, 

or an experience (for example “what a 

great time I had at the state house”)

What is hashtag #?

Hashtag is a word or phrase preceded by a 

hash or pound sign (#) and used to identify 

messages on a specific topic. 

For example, if I want to share what a great 

time I had at the state house, I would use 

#DisabilityAwarenessDay at the beginning 

or end of my tweet. 

How does twitter work?

Twitter is one of the most confusing and 

overwhelming social networking sites. 

Because of this, it makes it very difficult to 

explain in words. We recommend viewing 

a video or the help section on twitter to 

learn how to use the website. 
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Here are some links that explain how to use 

twitter:

• http://support.twitter.com/groups/50-welcome-to-twitter

• http://www.youtube.com/

watch?v=J0xbjIE8cPM

• http://www.youtube.com/

watch?v=ddO9idmax0o

People use twitter in many ways: 

• You can follow celebrities or companies 

you like.

• You can follow close friends and family.

• You can follow news or entertainment 

sites to keep up with current events.

• You can follow a hashtag that is popular during an event. For example if you 

want to follow the President of the United 

States, you can follow #POTUS and see 

what people are saying. 
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How do you login into twitter?

Follow these six steps:

• Step 1: Open your web browser.

• Step 2: Visit the Twitter website.

• Step 3: Locate the log in panel.

• Step 4: Type in your twitter username 

you can use either your @ username 

(example @NEATPeertoPeer) or your 

email address.

• Step 5: Type in your Twitter Password.

• Step 6: Click the Sign in button.
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How do you “tag” someone 

using the @?

• Put an @ in front of the person’s name or 

the name of a company.

• For example what a great time I had at 

the state house #DisabilityAwarenessDay @NEATPeertoPeer.

• Tagging someone allows you to have a 

public conversation with another Twitter 

user.

 Tips for twitter

• You have to create an account.

• You will have followers.

• You can have favorites and retweets.

• Keep it short – you only have 140 

characters!

• Be safe with your personal information.

• Once it is written, it will always be online, 

even if you delete.
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SKYPE
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Skype

Skype is a FREE way to have face to face 

chats using your computer, smart phone 

or tablet. Many families use this program 

to stay connected with family members 

especially if they live far away from each 

other. The Sunday afternoon call with mom 

and dad is no longer just listening on the 

telephone. You can see how they are doing 

or you can show them your new haircut.

Up to ten people can be on one video chat. 

If you pay for the advanced features, you 

can even leave a voice message or video 

message if no one is home when you call.

 

If you would like more than 10 people to 

be on your Skype video chat, you can 

purchase a Skype card on the internet to 

receive their premium services. 
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How to find Skype on your different 

devices

On your computer, go to www.Skype.com

On your smartphones and tablets you need 

to find the Skype app in your store and 

download the application. After the program 

is downloaded you can go to your main 

menu and click or tap on Skype to open the 

program.
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Sign up for Skype 

If you don’t already have a Microsoft account, Skype will ask to sign up or create a 

account.

Follow sign up instruction

• Name, email , phone (optional) and any 

other requirements.

• Need your first name and last name.

• An email address.
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Searching people on Skype

After signing in or creating an

 account you can now search for people 

you know and you can invite them to video 

chat. 

You can search for people using their username, email address or phone number. 

Once you find your friend, you will have to 

ask them to accept your request to be their 

contact before you can begin tweeting.

Skype offers many video tutorials:

http://www.skype.com/en/what-is-skype/
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TELECONFERENCING
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Teleconferencing 

Conference Calls

A conference call is a telephone call in 

which the person making the call wishes to 

have more than two people on to listen, ask 

questions and answer questions. When 

using conference calling there is FREE 

basic calling services you can use or your 

purchase the service from a provider like 

AT&T. 

When using FREE conference calling, you 

are given a number to call or call-in number 

with a code to get on the call. The catch is 

that every person on the call will be paying 

their own long distance charges.

Conference calling services that cost money 

for their service have features not available 

with the free service. First only the person 

setting up the call is charged for the service. 

They are given their own call-in number 

and “host code” that authorizes the call to 

happen. People calling in use the same 

call-in number but they have a different 

“code” just for participants. There is also an 

operator to assist anyone on the call if they 

have problems and an option to record the 

call.
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Ways to make sure your conference call 

meetings run smoothly

When you have more than one person 

on the call at one time, it is important that 

everyone can hear whoever is speaking. 

To do this, everyone on the call should 

mute using the *6 buttons on all but the 

one phone, tablet, or computer that will be 

used for speaking.

If you are speaking make sure that you 

have only one device (computer, tablet, 

telephone) on at a time. If not, echoing or 

feedback can occur making it difficult for 

others to hear what is being said.

If echoing does occur, you may need to 

move all other devices away from the area 

you are doing the call (at least several feet 

away). 

Only the loudest voice or noise will be 

heard so it is important that only one 

person talk at a time. So we can hear 

people clearly on the call, participants 

need to know how to use the mute *6 and 

unmute *6 again .When communicating 

with more than one person at one time. 

Mute all but the one phone, tablet, or 

computer that will be used for speaking. 

If you are speaking make sure that you 
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have only one device (computer, tablet, 

telephone) on to reduce echoing or 

feedback.

So that we can hear people clearly on the 

call, participants need to know how to mute 

and *6. 

 How To Host a Teleconference

 Before the call:

• Decide who should be on the call. 

• Pick a time for everyone to join.

• Check the conference call calendar to 

see if anyone else is using the line at 

that time.

• Only one group can use the line at one 

time.

• Contact your group’s scheduler to book 

the date and time of your call so others 

do not interrupt.

• Create an agenda (list of items to talk 

about).
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the date and time for the call, call in 

 number and any handouts AHEAD of 

 time.

• Practice how to mute or unmute the line 

with the operator. Most use the *6 to mute 

and *6 again to unmute.

Begin the call:

• As the chair, get on the call at least 10 

minutes before it starts.

• When ready to start, remind everyone to 

mute phones unless speaking.

During the call:

• Do roll call of participants for attendance 

(This helps so everyone knows who is on 

the call).

Read out the agenda before you start.

• Ask if anyone has anything to add.

• Follow the agenda.
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Call in number will be provided by the 

host

• Call in using that number (It is a FREE 

call).

• The Operator will tell you welcome and 

to put in your conference code, followed 

by the pound sign (#).

How To Participate

• The Operator will tell you to say your 

name followed by the pound sign (#).

• Please say your name so that the host 

will know who joined the call.

• You will then be connected.

• If you are the first person to join, you will 

hear music playing.

Ending Your Call

• Host or moderator will let everyone on 

the call know when the meeting will be 

ending

• Ask for final questions

• Ask the group if they want to meet again
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If the group wants to meet again:

• Have a couple of days and times available for the group to pick from

• End with the next meeting date and time

• Send out meeting notes with the next 

meeting date and the time 

Etiquette For Using When 

Teleconferencing Calling

• Join the call at least 5 minutes before it 

starts.

• Put your phone on mute.

• Stay on the agenda topics. 

• Remember only one person can talk at a 

time.

• Before you say anything, please say 

your name first.

• Roll call will be used to get questions 

and comments.

• If you must interrupt, please say your 
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name first.

• Unmute to speak (*6) and when done, 

mute (*6) your phone again.
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GOOGLE

HANGOUTS
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Google Hangout

What is Google Hangouts?

Google Hangouts is an instant messaging 

and video chat program developed by 

Google. It brings your conversations to life 

with photos, emoji, and even group video 

calls for free.

Whether you just want to talk with a friend 

or are figuring out Friday night plans with 

the whole gang, Hangouts are like real life 

conversations. 

You can show photos and share how you 

feel with emoji and best of all, they are 

FREE.

Getting started on Google Hangouts

• First you have to accept a friends 

request or send a request invite to one of 

your friends. You do this clicking on the 

Google Hangouts logo.

• Once you have accepted friend’s 

request, you can call them or send them 

an instant message.
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Using your phone on Google Hangouts 

• If you are using your phone, go to the 

menu and click on the logo.

• Click on the square with a checkmark if 

you have an iPhone or the + sign if you 

use Android.

• Type in name of person you want to 

reach or

• You can also just click on their name if 

you have done Google Hangouts with 

them before.

• You have a choice of messaging each 

other or clicking on the video camera on 

the top to see each other and you will 

start a video call. 
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Using your tablet on Google Hangouts 

• If you are using your tablet, click on the 

logo.

• Type in name of person you want to 

search or

• You can also click on their name if you 

have them in your contacts. 

• You can then follow the same steps as 

using your phone. 
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Using your computer on 

Google Hangouts

• Sign in to your Google account.

• Log into Gmail and look at the left side of 

the screen.

• Type in name of person you want to 

reach in the search box or just click their 

name in your contacts.

• This will start a new box that you can 

type messages into or start a video call.
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Google Hangout Issues

Some features are not available on your 

mobile devices.

• Make sure your device is charged so you 

don’t get disconnected.

• If you are hearing feedback sounds, like 

a static or buzzing sound another electronic device may be too close to your 

computer.

• Mute other devices (like cell phone and 

tablets).

Things to remember

• Keep safety in mind – don’t pass out 

personal information. 

• Remember that you can be recorded, 

both video and photos
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GOTOMEETING
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What is GoToMeeting?

It is a way to have meetings with everyone, 

looking at the same document and seeing 

any changes made as they are being made. 

Up to 25 people can be on the call at the 

same time.

What you must have on your computer?

• Webcam: Webcams are typically small 

cameras that either attach to a person’s 

monitor or sit on a desk. Most webcams 

connect to the computer via USB. 

Webcams can also be used for video chat 

sessions with other people. Instead of 

broadcasting the video on the Web, users 

can set up a video chat session with one 

or more friends and have a conversation 

with live audio and video.

• Microphone: They usually have a mute 

button to turn them on or off.
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turned on so you can hear everything 

that is said during the meeting. 

• Wireless(WiFi) or high speed

 internet access, not dial-up. 

• Operating system up to 

 date, at least Window 7. 

Participate in a GoTo Meeting

• Go to your email and find the 

GoToMeeting announcement invitation.

• Click on the blue link in the email.

• If it is your first time to join GoToMeeting, 

you need to add the program to your 

computer.
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You can easily download the program by 

clicking on the Launch button.

• Once the blue link is clicked and 

you have the software downloaded, 

GoToMeeting will begin.

Starting GoToMeeting

• Login to www.gotomeeting.com page at 

least 15 minutes before meeting starts.

• Click on the start button for the meeting. 

• You may be asked for a session ID, 

please have that number available (you 

can find the number in your meeting 

invitation.)
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computer or device (tablet, 

phone) on mute by clicking the 

microphone.

Phone user

If you know ahead of time that 

you cannot join the meeting using 

your computer/tablet, please call 

the host before the call begins to 

get a copy of the handouts to be 

used. Be sure to make copies 

so you have them in front of you 

during the meeting. 

If you are using your phone to join 

the meeting, please call the 800 

number and put in the meeting ID 

(it is in your invitation).

Then, when the operator gives 

you the audio pin to join the 

meeting. 

Enter the pin in order to let the 

host know you have joined and 

also to be able to are able to 

speak with the group.
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Things to remember

• Make sure your computer, tablet, or 

cellphone are fully charged.

• Practice ahead of time.

• Login in at least 15 minutes before the 

meeting time.

• Make sure you have the right date and 

time on your calendar (What is your time 

zone?).

• Print out agenda and materials if you are 

connected by your telephone. 

• Give people time to mute on their 

phones (*6) and unmute (*6) again.

• When you are joining, and you need to 

use more than one device, do not place 

your phone or tablet next to each other, 

that will to reduce echoing or feedback.

• Don’t panic if you get disconnected, 

join the call again as you did before.
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GOTOWEBINAR
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Go To Webinar

Go To Meeting and Go To Webinar are 

very similar programs. But there are some 

differences. An easy way to think about 

the difference is Go to Meeting is for small 

groups and Go To Webinar is for large 

groups

GoToMeeting has a maximum limit of 

25 attendees and is commonly used by 

groups that need to view and edit the same 

document such as for collaborating on 

projects. 

GoToWebinar can handle huge webinars 

with versions that can handle up to 100, 

500 and 1000 attendees. There's also 

some additional features you can purchase 

to support large webinars such as attendee 

registration and evaluation. 

With GoToMeeting anyone can talk and 

be made presenter etc. GoToWebinar is 

more of a lecture environment where a 

small number of people are presenting 

information to a large audience who can 

then ask questions. 
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What you must have on your computer?

• Webcam: Webcams are typically small 

cameras that either attach to a person’s 

monitor or sit on a desk. Most webcams 

connect to the computer via USB. Webcams can also be used for video chat 

sessions with other people. Instead of 

broadcasting the video on the Web, users 

can set up a video chat session with one 

or more friends and have a conversation 

with live audio and video.

• Microphone: They usually have a mute 

button to turn them on or off.

• Speakers, make sure speakers are 

turned on so you can hear everything 

that is said during the meeting. 

• Wireless(WiFi) or high speed

 internet access, not dial-up. 

• Operating system up to 

 date, at least Window 7. 
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Participate in a gotoWebinar

• You can have a meeting with large 

groups and a maximum if 6 presenters 

showing their handouts. 

• Go to your email and find the 

GoToWebinar announcement invitation.

Register For A Webinar

• 1. Click the registration link or button 

provided on a registration Web site or in 

an invitation email.

• 2. Complete the registration form.

• 3. You will receive an email confirming 

your registration for the Webinar,

• Once the blue link is clicked and 

you have the software downloaded, 

GotoWebinar will begin.
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• Note: Some Webinars may require 

organizer approval prior to the 

delivery of a confirmation email.

Join A Webinar

• 1. At the time of the Webinar, open the 

Webinar confirmation email.

• 2. Click the Join Webinar link provided in 

the confirmation email.

• 3. If prompted, click Yes, Grant or Trust to 

accept the download.

• 4. If requested, enter the Webinar 

password provided by your Webinar 

organizer.

• 5. Join the audio portion of the Webinar. 

Audio information is provided in the 

Audio pane of your Control Panel, in the 

Webinar confirmation email.

Access Webinar Help

• Click Help at the top of the Control Panel 

to access online help.
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Using The Control Panel

Once you have joined the Webinar you

will see the Attendee Control Panel and

Grab Tab. The Control Panel contains

panes that can be expanded or collapsed 

by clicking the +/- on the left side of eachpane.

Note: Viewing the Attendee List, raising 

your hand and asking questions are 

only available if the organizer has 

enabled these features.

• Attendee List (viewable only if organizer 

has enabled) (a)

• Grab Tab – Click arrow to open/close 

Control Panel. Click square to toggle 

Viewer Window between full screen/window 

mode. Click hand icon to raise/lower hand. 

Click mic icon tomute/unmute your audio 

(if organizer hasenabled) (b)

• Audio pane – Select audio format. Click 

Audio Setup to select Mic & Speakers 

devices (c)

• Questions pane – If turned on by an 

organizer,attendees can submit questions 

and reviewanswers. Broadcast messages 

to attendees willalso show here (d)

• Type your question and click Send to 

submit itto the organizer (e)

• Webinar details – for quick reference (f)
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Things to remember

• Make sure your computer, tablet, or 

cellphone are fully charged.

• Practice ahead of time.

• Login in at least 15 minutes before the 

meeting time.

• Make sure you have the right date and 

time on your calendar (What is your time 

zone?).

• Print out agenda and materials if you are 

connected by your telephone. 

• Give people time to mute on their phones 

(*6) and unmute (*6) again.

• When you are joining, and you need to 

use more than one device, do not place 

your phone or tablet next to each other, 

that will to reduce echoing or feedback.

• Don’t panic if you get disconnected, 

join the call again as you did before.
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CONCLUSION
116

IN CONCLUSION

Twenty years ago getting our voices heard was learning to 

use our voices loudly and effectively, today getting our voices 

heard includes the use of technology. When we learn to use 

technology our voices become louder, reach ever more people 

in a short period of time, and can be done by many more self 

advocates all at the same time. Never before has the power 

of change been more available, important and needed by self 

advocates around the world.

It is our goal to help people with disabilities take the lead in 

controlling their own futures. By having a better understanding 

of the various types of technology, knowing how it works and 

how to use it will allow you to direct your own life and support 

others to do the same. Technology is not necessarily difficult 

to understand but it can be very challenging to learn to use.

MY TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK will teach you about basic 

computer and communication technology. We do not need 

to become experts but we do need to understand how to use 

the very basic information presented in this Handbook. For 

some of us, just knowing what the technology can do will be 

enough and while for others applying it will be needed.
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WORDS YOU

NEED TO 

KNOW
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WORDS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Accessory is a utility, that is, a small, standalone program designed to perform one 

small task.

Android is a mobile device operating 

system that lets you run your smartphones 

and tablets.

App is short for application. An app is a 

piece of software program. It can run on the 

Internet, on your computer, on your phone, 

or other electronic device. 

Apple ID is your email address and 

password for everything you do with Apple 

like: shopping in the iTunes Store, enabling 

iCloud on all your devices, buying Apps from 

the Apple Online Store, and also accessing 

Apple Support.

Backup is the procedure of making an extra 

copy of your data in case the original is 

damaged or lost. 

Blog Post the entries in a blog are called 

posts. A blog is a list of written words and 

ideas; each one makes two to three points. 

Browse is to view data.
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Captcha is short for "Completely 

Automated Public Turing test to tell 

Computers and Humans Apart" is a type of 

security code. It is strange looking letters 

and words you will be ask to enter to reset 

a username and password.

Connect and Connection is like words 

used when people meet each other or 

join together. Computers use connect 

and connection to find and join a wireless 

internet location near you. 

Converted is to change a file type to a 

different type of file.

Cursor is usually is flashing guide or the 

popular arrow pointer used to show the 

position your device’s screen that shows 

you moving your selection. 

Cyber Bullying is the electronic posting of 

mean-spirited messages about a person 

often done anonymously. Electronic 

technology includes devices and equipment 

such as cell phones, computers, and tablets 

and well as communication tools including 

social media sites, text messages, chat, 

and websites. 

Data usage is the amount of data sent and 

received from your wireless device in a 

month. 
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Device is any machine or component 

that attaches to a computer. Examples of 

devices include disk drives, printers, mice, 

and modems.

Email is a message sent out electronically 

from one person’s computer to one or more 

people.

Embedded is to take a text or code and 

insert it into another file. For example, 

adding a picture or video in your Word 

document and making them one file. 

Emoji are small cartoon-like images and 

icons used to express an idea, an emotion, 

in your text messages, Facebook and 

Twitter. Most used are faces like: winky 

face, cry baby face, smiley face.

External hard drive is a computer 

accessory that is outside your device and 

allows you to have extra storage space 

to save your files. Did you know every 

computer needs an internal hard drive to 

store its operating system, programs and 

user information? 

Facebook is a free social networking 

website that lets you create profiles, upload 

photos and video, send messages and 

keep in touch with friends, family and coworkers.
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Flash drive is a small external hard drive 

that uses the USB (means Universal Serial 

Bus) plug in your computer to: store 

information, back-up and transfer computer 

files.

Fonts are the different letters, numbers, 

shapes and sizes of the same design. Most 

word processing programs have a font 

menu that allow you to choose the type. 

Gmail is free email service provided by 

Google. We will be using Google programs 

in the My Technology Handbook. 

Hacker is a slang term for a computer 

enthusiast, like a person who enjoys 

learning programming languages and 

computer systems and can often be 

considered an expert. Among professional 

programmers, depending on how it used, 

the term can be either complimentary or 

negative, although it is becoming more and 

more negative when used. 

Hash Tag is used on social media sites like 

Twitter. Place a hash or pound sign (#) before a word or phrase to identify a specific 

topic. A popular tag is #POTUS used when 

talking about the President of the United 

States.
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HDMI Cable Stands for "High-Definition 

Multimedia Interface." It is a digital cable 

that allows you to connect different devices, 

usually to your HDTV.

High Definition is a very detailed image or 

screen.

High tech is technology that is the latest, 

greatest and newest, especially in electronics. This type of technology takes practice 

to learn and use.

Install is adding software to your device 

and having that device do its processing to 

run it for you. 

Internet Access is when your device is 

able to reach the internet, either by WIFI or 

plugged in.

iPhone is a device made by Apple and will 

only work with Apple items. Example of 

Apple programs are iCloud and iTunes.

Key Word is a significant word, or words 

used to find information when searching 

online.

Logging in or Signing in is when you are 

using your Username and Password to get 

information from websites. 
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Low tech is technology you might call the 

old-way of doing something, like when using a computer and printing what you want. 

When you compare low to high tech skills 

like typing a document and sending it to a 

tablet.

Monitor is a tv-like screen on a computer. 

Many call the monitor screen. 

Password is a secret code used with a 

username to get access to your accounts 

on-line like your emails. You can decide 

what letters, numbers and symbols to pick. 

Pin Number is personal identification number (PIN) a password using numbers that 

you use on some websites to make sure 

that you are the person logging into your 

account. 

Post is to publish a message in an online 

group.

Programs are software that run on your 

computer. 

Operating System (OS) is the software 

that runs your computer and manages the 

programs on it. All computers and devices 

require an Operating System. The most 

common are Windows, Apple’s iOS and 

Android.
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Registered Users are when you sign up 

to gain access to a website. When signing 

up be prepared to give some private 

information. If you are uncomfortable giving 

this information, don’t sign up

Screen reader software programs allow 

blind or visually impaired users to have the 

computer read the text that is displayed on 

the computer screen out loud.

Search engine is an online program that 

searches and identifies websites on the 

internet using your keywords.

Social Media are websites and apps that 

allow you to create and share information 

and ideas in on-line communities and 

networks.

SIM Card is a smart card inside a cellular 

phone, carrying an identification number 

unique to the owner, storing your personal 

data, and preventing operation if removed.

Touch screen is a device that lets you 

touch or tap its screen to use apps or 

programs.

Trouble-shooting is diagnosing the source 

of a problem on your computer. Many 

programs, apps and hardware have trouble 

shooting guides to help you. 
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Tweeting is writing a message on Twitter. 

After you sign in, the screen will ask the 

question: What’s Happening?

Uninstall is to remove a program. 

Uninstalling removes all files that were 

added to the computer when the application 

was first added.

USB is short for Universal Serial Bus, it is 

a connection to your computer, it is also 

known as plug and play.

Username is a personal ID that you will 

use with a password. You decide what your 

username will be, make it something that 

you can remember but others do not know. 

You will be asked to give it on emails and 

websites. 

Vlog is short for a video blog where you 

record a video of your thoughts or topic 

instead of writing them. 

Voice Recognition allows a person to 

speak and the program or device to change 

the audio into words without having to type. 

Watermark is a shadowy design on paper 

that you can write over.

Webcam is a digital video camera that 

is sometimes built into a computer or 

purchased separately and then attached to 

the computer.
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Wifi is a service that lets computers, 

smartphones, or other devices connect to 

the internet or each other using a wireless 

connection in an area.

A Project of

Self Advocates Becoming Empowered

With contributions made by self advocates, 

Project Advisory Committee and NTAC for 

Voting and Cognitive Access Vote Team

This Logistics Project Funded by

Copyright © 2014 

by Self Advocates Becoming Empowered. 

All rights reserved.

SABE

PO Box 12239

Florence, SC 29504

sabenation@gmail.com