Expert Guidance

Learn directly from members of the DeafBlind community and professionals with lived experience. This training offers real-world insight into respectful and effective communication when vision and hearing are impacted.

Practical Learning

Gain practical tools and strategies for interacting with DeafBlind individuals in community and emergency settings. The course includes real life examples, video demonstrations, and first-person perspectives.

Flexible Format

Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule. This training is entirely self-guided and accessible online, so you can build your knowledge when and where it works best for you.

About the Course

Designed for law enforcement, first responders, and community members alike, this 30-minute introductory training provides practical guidance on interacting with DeafBlind individuals in a respectful and effective way. You’ll learn how to recognize signs of DeafBlindness, adapt your communication approach, and respond appropriately in a range of situations. Through real stories and practical strategies from members of the DeafBlind community, this course highlights the importance of patience, observation, and understanding to build trust and ensure safety for all community members.

Course Curriculum

7 Chapters · 12 Lessons

  1. 1

    Start Here

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Please Read Before Beginning

  2. 2

    Course Introduction

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Understanding DeafBlindness

  3. 3

    Effective Communication

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Effective Communication

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Knowledge Check: Effective Communication

  4. 4

    Approaching and Identifying Yourself

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Approaching and Identifying Yourself

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Knowledge Check: Approaching and Identifying Yourself

  5. 5

    Real Experiences with Police

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Real Experiences with Police

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Knowledge Check Real Experiences with Law Enforcement

  6. 6

    Course Wrap-Up

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Emergency Response Tips

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Knowledge Check: Emergency Response Tips

  7. 7

    RID CEU Request Form & Evaluation

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      RID CEU and/or Certificate Request Form

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Evaluation

Approved for RID CEUs

This course has been approved for RID CEUs! Vancro Integrated Interpreting Services (VIIS) is an approved RID CMP sponsor for continuing education activities. This workshop is offered for .05 CEUs in the Professional Studies area at the “little to no” content knowledge level. Participants who wish to receive RID CEUs must provide their RID member number when prompted. CEUs will be reported to RID by VIIS. Important Note for Non-RID CEUs: If you are seeking CEUs for an organization other than RID (for example, BEI or another certification body), VIIS will not report those on your behalf. You may use the certificate of attendance you receive to request CEUs directly from your certifying organization. VIIS is committed to offering educational opportunities free from discrimination and bias. For accommodation requests or questions, please contact: [email protected]

What You'll Learn

Objective #1

1. Identify effective strategies for initiating communication with a DeafBlind individual in a respectful and accessible manner.

Objective #2

Recall appropriate ways to offer assistance without making assumptions or violating personal space.

Objective #3

Demonstrate awareness of basic etiquette and safety considerations when interacting with DeafBlind community members in public spaces.

Ready to Strengthen Your Communication Skills?

Don’t miss this opportunity to build confidence in navigating interactions with DeafBlind individuals. Enroll now and take the first step toward safer, more respectful, and inclusive communication!

Enroll Now