In Focus: Kelly Dymond
Name: Kelly Dymond
Job title: Adaptive Technologist
Department: Accessible Learning Services
How long have you been at Mohawk: I started working at Mohawk College in October 2019.
Tell us what you do at the College?
I am one of the Adaptive Technologists in Accessible Learning Services (ALS), which provides individualized accommodations and supports for students with disabilities. I am grateful to be a part of this dedicated, passionate, knowledgeable and supportive team. My days are filled with meeting with students, listening to people, or sometimes brainstorming on the whiteboards in the Accessible Learning Lab, a workspace where students can study; take a break between classes.
In my role as an Adaptive Technologist, I meet with students who are registered with ALS to discuss assistive technology (AT) tools (e.g. text-to-speech, voice recognition, etc.) and provide AT device training, as well as troubleshooting issues when they occur. We also discuss Learning Strategies (e.g. study skills, time management, organization, notetaking, and other topics) that could support the student with their academic studies.
What is the one thing that makes you want to come to work each day?
One thing that makes me look forward to coming to work are our students - the conversations and listening to their experiences and insights. I appreciate their resourcefulness. I enjoy collaborating and understanding how they learn, determining strategies that may support them, while acknowledging that everyone learns and thinks about information in different ways. One of the rewards of this position is watching the students grow and build confidence in their skills and abilities, celebrating their successes and good moments, while listening during the moments of frustration and tough times. A student’s academic journey follows many paths, and I am grateful to be a tiny part of someone's journey.
What is your favourite thing to do outside of work?
One of the things I enjoy doing outside of work is going for walks and hikes, enjoying the beauty of the scenery and the little moments, as well as taking pictures on hikes. It’s amazing to look out over a valley, cove or hillside when you reach the top or pausing for a moment along the trail to take in the sights and sounds! In my spare time, I also like to curl up with a book, spend time with family and friends, and play the piano.