Enabling Technology

DSDC is working hard to bring enabling technology to the forefront of our industry.  Our goal is to help assist the individuals we support to grow more independent, enhance their lives while at home, in the community and at work.

DSDC is proud to announce that Adam Lechner and Travis Saine have both completed the required training for Enabling Technology as certified ETIS Specialists through SHIFT! We are excited to continue to be leaders in pushing technology forward to enhance the lives of the individuals we support! 

WHATS NEW?

Besides trying to keep our heads above water working on all of the computers, website, printers, etc… We have been working hard behind the scenes to help drive enabling technology forward. We have toured the Enabling Technology Model home in Nashville with management, individuals supported and staff.  Each visit seemed to be a huge success all the way around. Staff, management, health coordinators and individuals supported all seemed to see the value of enabling technology and how it could enhance their lives! 

 Some of the courses and training that Travis and Adam completed are below. We are currently in the process of selecting a team of DSP’s and individuals supported, who are highly motivated and willing to embrace enabling technology as much as we are! Stay tuned…

Enabling Technology Integration Specialist (ETIS) Certification

Someone who works with a provider organization or state agency and seeks specialized professional development related to Technology First transformation and person-centered technology planning, assessment and integration

  • Fundamentals 1, 2, 3

  • Recorded webinars: Assessment, Tech Planning, Organization Dynamics

  • Specialization 1: Tech First Transformation

  • Final Exam

  • Experiential Learning Project: Technology First Case Study

  • Transformation summary

  • Access to the Shift learning community including discussion threads, supplemental TechHuddles, webinars, etc.

FUNDAMENTALS

Our Fundamentals courses have been accredited by the National Association of Direct Support Professionals. These three classes are required for aall credential and certification programs.


 

Introduction to Enabling Technology and Best Practices

Defining enabling technology and distinguishing it from assistive tech

Discussing benefits, uses and examples for home, work and community

Identifying best practices for technology-first organizations


 

Roles and Responsibilities of Direct and Natural Supports

Exploring the concept of “support” and differences between direct and natural

Identifying generic responsibilities of everyone on the support team

Highlighting specific responsibilities for various team members


 

Person-Centered Assessment and Support Planning

Applying person-centered approach to assessment and support planning

Highlighting the elements of a technology assessment

Discussing the integration of technology into the service/support plan

SPECIALIZATIONS

These classes are customized based on the type of certification


 

Technology First Transformation

Defining key aspects of a technology first approach

Highlighting specific strategies and tools designed to support specialists

Discussing barriers solutions related to technology first


 

Sustainability and Innovation

Defining funding models and navigating Medicaid waivers

Highlighting specific policy considerations for operations and programming

Exploring the next steps of empowering innovation


 

Remote Support Supplemental Modules

Defining key aspects of remote support

Exploring remote support models and best practices

Applying person-centered thinking to remote support assessment and planning

Model Homes

The Department currently has two Enabling Technology Model Homes.  These homes are located in Nashville on the former Clover Bottom Developmental Center campus and in Greeneville on the former Greene Valley Developmental Center campus.  These homes are designed to showcase the variety of residential technology options available to support a person to live more independently and also provide greater freedom to control their living environment through the use of sensors, remote supports and smart devices.

These homes are available for individual and group guided tours.  To schedule a tour at one of the Enabling Tech Homes, please complete this tour request form, and a DIDD technology champion in the region will work to schedule a date and time that works best for you.