These workshops combine a series of the modules into a longer, more in-depth course. They are available as online workshops (offered through this site) and as face-to-face presentations and workshops. In addition to these interactive workshops, a series of public lectures is available and is perfect for those who want a brief introduction to a topic without being overwhelmed by learning outcomes and homework.

Blogs, Journals and On-line Storytelling, available online

Topics include finding a spot for your on-line journal, the basics of blogging software and how to share photos on-line. Participants will also be able to register for a "daily prompt" sent out via email. This is also perfect for those keeping a paper journal/artist's book!

Delivering Presentations

This presentation was designed in response to the many bad presentations that we have all endured. It addresses both the preparation for and the presentation of technical topics. Open source software (i.e. free) is featured in this presentation, but it can also be modified for Power Point users.

Documenting Internal Processes

One of the most neglected tasks in the office is documenting staff knowledge and internal processes. Too often there is not enough time to document all of the things that need to be recorded. This presentation will offer several solutions to (1) finding time in a busy day to document processes, (2) establishing systems that are easy for all staff to maintain and (3) motivating staff to keep the knowledge base up-to date. Both low-tech/paper-based solutions, and digital/software solutions will be explored. This presentation is based on my experiences with the Linux Documentation Project (an international software documentation project); and my time as a Web Developer at TVOntario.

No Cost Office Software

Chances are you have volunteered a few (or maybe a few hundred) hours in the last year. Volunteerism also exists in the software world. Software "volunteers" contribute their time to the Free/Libre Open Source Software movement, creating free software programs to replace those made by big business. This presentation will outline the capabilities of OpenOffice.org--a free alternative to the Microsoft Office suite. OOo is compatible with MS Office and includes components for (1) word processing (2) digital slide shows (3) spreadsheets and (4) graphic design. This presentation is based on my experience integrating open source software in the MS-centric workplace for over five years.

Web Accessibility Training

Pulling on her experience from working with individuals with low vision, mobility impairments and learning disorders, Emma will walk you through the basics of what it means to put an accessible site on-line. This topic is also useful for those creating sites for the modern, rural audience where users are limited to dial-up connectivity. Topics include:

• Legislation (ODA and Section 508)
• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines from the Web Accessibility Initiative
• Structuring the page: using your markup language the right (and semantic) way
• Validation tools and testing suites
• Making rich media accessible to everyone

This one-day workshop is also available as an Ontario government-specific training session. In the morning Web accessibility issues are outlined including the legislated requirements under the ODA and the AODA. The afternoon is spent looking at the technical details of how to make a Web site accessible: from building an accessible site all the way through to retro-fitting an existing site.

Web Site Action Plan, available online

By the end of the course you will have developed sample personas of your customers, a detailed description of what your web site will do (and how it will make you money) and a time line for implementing your plan. You will have the vocabulary to ask technical questions and the confidence to know if you are being charged an appropriate fee for work done.