Latch-On (Literacy and Technology Hands-On) is an evidence-based, multimedia literacy program for young adults with an intellectual disability. The program provides opportunities for young adults with an intellectual disability to continue their literacy development in a post-secondary environment, using computer technology to enhance literacy, self-confidence, independence and work placement opportunities.

Developed by Associate Professor Karen Moni and Dr Anne Jobling in UQ’s School of Education, Latch-On combines traditional literacy and numeracy teaching styles with technology instruction. It also includes health and fitness education. The part-time, two-year program is delivered in small groups to students aged from 18 years, with an optional one-year extension.

In 2010 Latch-On became a nationally recognised tertiary qualification, attaining accreditation as a Certificate II in Literacy and Technology by the Queensland Department of Education and Training. The accreditation acknowledges the impact that university partnerships have on improving lives for a wide community spectrum, not just business and industry sectors. Without this program, many of these young people would fall through the post-school educational gap and miss out on this opportunity to develop their potential.

UniQuest licensed Latch-On to Endeavour Foundation in 2004 and extended the agreement in 2010. Endeavour will offer the Certificate II to all Latch-On students in 2011. Endeavour has had overwhelming support and demand for expansion of the program, and will launch it in Sydney in 2011.

Latch-On has also been licensed to Vancouver’s North Island College and Canada’s Down Syndrome Research Foundation.

• Licenceⁱ
• Training