Over 200 Presentations
Wednesday through Friday, October 12-14, 2011
Over 200 one- and two-hour presentations that described and/or demonstrated successful applications of assistive technology for persons with disabilities were held during the three days of the conference. Below are the presentations that were offered.
See list of conference presenters.
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accessible instructional material
10/12/2011
2pm-3pm
20 Creative Uses for Click N Talk, a Photo App for iPads/iPods
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
2:00 pm -
3:00 pm
Location: Verandas 5-8
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
The Click N Talk Application for the iPad/iTouch/iPhone was designed by Intermediate District 287 augmentative communication consultants to meet the needs of individuals with significant needs. In doing so, we have learned that this easily customizable application has proved helpful with a large and varied population, ranging from cognitively intact preschoolers and regular education students, to special education students and adults participating in therapy settings. We have discovered uses for early literacy, independent living and cognitive retraining. At only $2.99, we have found the versatility of this app to be a tremendous boon to school districts, clinics and hospital settings during these challenging financial times.
Presenters:
AnnMarie Bailey
Diane Gerads Schmidt
10/13/2011
11am-12pm
Accessible Science Equipment and Labs
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
11:00 am -
12:00 pm
Location: Plaza 5
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Students with disabilities face access challenges to typical science labs in pre-college and postsecondary settings. Access barriers may prevent a student from gaining or demonstrating knowledge, as well as fully participating in lab activities. This workshop will look at ways to make science labs more accessible in terms of the physical environment, the equipment and more. Participants will learn about a variety of equipment that can make science labs more accessible, including accessible measuring devices, equipment labeled with tactile Braille, talking equipment, stirring and filling devices and more. Examples of this sort of equipment will be on hand for participants to touch, see and feel! Participants will also assess the accessibility of science labs at their home institutions.
Presenters:
Brianna Blaser
Sheryl Burgstahler
10/13/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Benchmarks are Not for Sitting!
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 6
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Come and explore the world of wikis, where we start with Kansas Extended Standards, Benchmarks and Indicators from their State Alternate Assessment and have linked them all to a list of FREE activities found on the IntelliTools Activity Exchange. Teachers will see a list of activities that line up with each benchmark and indicator and then click on the link to go straight to the activity, where they can read the summary and ratings and download it to use immediately. Learn how easy it is to reproduce this time-saving feature for your district and have a host of FREE Classroom Suite activities at your fingertips.
Presenters:
Suzanne Feit
Dinell Stuckey
10/12/2011
8am-9am
Children with Complex Needs and a Visual Impairment: Accessing Communication and Learning
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Plaza 4
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
This session is designed to help you to understand how visual and cerebral visual impairment affect a child's ability to communicate and access technology to support learning. It will offer practical advice on how to adapt working practices and materials to make them more accessible for this group of children and incidentally benefit other pupils, such as those with autism and severe cognitive difficulties. In particular, we will look at software that has been specifically designed for children with complex needs and low vision, as well as software that, because of its auditory qualities, can be used with young children who are blind.
Presenters:
Roger Bates
10/14/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Comic Life on Steroids
Date:
Fri, Oct 14, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Edina
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Do you know the program Comic Life? Have you been using it to create individualized social stories? If you have or haven't been introduced to the program, there are some exciting things you can do with this easy-to-use and creative program to maximize its effectiveness with your students. This presentation will feature a variety of things you can do with a Comic Life creation. You will learn how to use speech and thought balloons to help students understand the differences between what they think and what they say. You'll learn how to add speech or sounds in Adobe Acrobat, how to access different kinds of pictures, how to incorporate student-drawn art, how to use the program for creating step-by-step picture directions and more.
Presenters:
Judith Sweeney
10/14/2011
8am-10:30am
Early Literacy Tools and Accessibility for Severe and Multiple Disabilities (2nd of Two Block Session)
Date:
Fri, Oct 14, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 7
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
10/14/2011
8am-10:30am
Early Literacy Tools and Accessibility for Severe and Multiple Disabilities (Two Block Session)
Date:
Fri, Oct 14, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 7
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
We are clearly in an exciting era of technology where professionals who work with children who have the most significant disabilities can not overlook the power of portable technologies, such as the iPad, but also can not overestimate it's power. Highlights include online resources, easy-to-use computer activities, iPad apps and demonstration of how to access them by students who have severe and multiple disabilities. Participants will walk away with a clear understanding of how children can access materials at home and at school with a variety of different resource tools. Door prizes will be a part of this session!
Presenters:
Pati King DeBaun
10/14/2011
11am-12pm
Effects of HearBuilder on Preschool and School-Age Students
Date:
Fri, Oct 14, 2011
from
11:00 am -
12:00 pm
Location: Edina
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Interactive software provides students with motivating, systematic practice for various learning tasks. Data-tracking software enables educators to tailor instruction based on student performance. Session will include clinical and technical product features, as well as educational benefits and research studies, of software programs for following directions and phonological awareness. Presenter will discuss efficacy; pre- and post-testing information; group demographics for research studies; computer-based instruction that is systematic, direct, theory-based and intensive; student and educator feedback; and conclusions. Software demonstration will include individualizing each student's program; setting levels of difficulty; identifying/printing learning objectives; adding background noise; monitoring progress/tracking data; and customizing/printing reports.
Presenters:
Beth Holland
10/13/2011
8am-9am
Enhancing Learning for Students with Complex Learning Needs
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Atrium 8
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Cooperative learning is a teaching strategy that has been used successfully in many classrooms. Although, historically, its primary purpose is to increase the potential for creating positive peer interactions, it can also greatly enhance learning and achievement. When considering how to support students with disabilities, this approach can provide many benefits. In this presentation, the benefits of cooperative learning will be outlined. Next, how this strategy was implemented in a private special education setting with students with complex learning needs will be discussed. Presenters will introduce Theme Packs (DynaVox Mayer-Johnson) and will utilize video clips to demonstrate how these tools were implemented into the classroom curriculum. In addition, the influence of classmates as peer models will be discussed. Lastly, successful learning outcomes will be highlighted.
Presenters:
Sharon Maack Connolly
10/13/2011
2pm-3pm
Exploring Accessible Instructional Materials Initiatives Through the Use of Digital Audio Book Players
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
2:00 pm -
3:00 pm
Location: Verandas 1-4
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
This hands-on presentation will explore the accessible instructional materials initiative and the effective use of digital audio book players in the classroom. It will provide guidance on selecting appropriate content materials from a variety of sources and the need for successful implementation. In addition, the presentation will demonstrate how the use of digital audio book players can increase student outcomes and, finally, a discussion of the results after using digital audio book players will be explored.
Presenters:
Liliana Acosta
Donna McNear
10/14/2011
8am-9am
Free, Fun and Fabulous Tools for Students and Educators
Date:
Fri, Oct 14, 2011
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Edina
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Is your AT budget next to nothing in this era of cost cutting and accountability? Are you looking for ways to provide students, parents and teachers with tools to use that can be accessed in the classroom and at home? This fast-paced session will explore a variety of FREE tools that students and educators can use to support success in school and beyond and look at how many of these tools can be used by educators to spice up their next online or face-to-face staff training. Participants will walk away with ideas on maximizing the power of online, Web-based tools that include curriculum, social, behavioral and organizational supports to increase engagement in learning for students.
Presenters:
Mo Buti
10/12/2011
12:30pm-1:30pm
Help for THOSE Classrooms
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Verandas 5-8
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
So, you have one of THOSE classrooms - students who have diverse communication abilities, physical challenges and learning styles. How can you meet each student's needs, address state learning standards, maximize student participation, make the best use of your classroom support staff and keep your sanity? The answer could be found in thematic unit instruction that's developed around simple and consistently formatted components, is easily adaptable and involves the whole educational team. Presenters from several school districts and classroom settings share their experiences and tips.
Presenters:
Elizabeth Erwin
Kelly Key
Tracy Lovell
Julie Rick
Jennifer Simonaitis
10/13/2011
2pm-3pm
I See, I Believe: The Art and Power of Video Self-Modeling and PollyMovie Production
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
2:00 pm -
3:00 pm
Location: Plaza 3
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
As human beings, we remember 85-90 percent of what we see, but less than 15 percent of what we hear, which means that the use of videos/pictures can be a very potent component of learning and success. Video self-modeling strategies and, specifically, the production of highly creative and prescriptive PollyMovies for individuals of all ages - and all abilities - is a transformative intervention for parents, educators and rehabilitation specialists. This highly energizing session will review the basic concepts of video self-modeling, demonstrate the process steps for PollyMovie production and will amaze you with the unlimited number of applications and options for using PollyMovies.
Presenters:
Becky Roth
10/12/2011
2pm-3pm
I Touch, I Hear, I Talk: iPad Tools of the Trade
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
2:00 pm -
3:00 pm
Location: Atrium 7
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
This presentation will explore the use of iPads in speech-language therapy and settings and apps that enhance the iPad's use as assistive technology. We will focus on apps of interest to both speech-language pathologists and teachers in all settings. Special attention will be given to adaptation for visual impairment. This is not an AAC session, but rather a look at the many other ways there are to use an iPad for work in communication, language and literacy. By all means, if you have expertise to share, bring it!
Presenters:
Christine Appert
Paula Cochran
10/13/2011
8am-10:30am
Implement AIM at Your School: Hands-On Lab with Bookshare (2nd of Two Block Session)
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Plaza 2 PC Lab
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: PC hands-on workshop
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
10/13/2011
8am-10:30am
Implement AIM at Your School: Hands-On Lab with Bookshare (Two Block Session)
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Plaza 2 PC Lab
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: PC hands-on workshop
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Are your students who qualify for accessible instructional materials getting the textbooks they need? This session will provide a framework and hands-on instruction for starting and maintaining an AIM implementation program at a school. We will begin with an overview and discussion of IDEA 2004, AIM, National Instructional Materials Access Standard (NIMAS) and National Instructional Materials Access Center (NIMAC) to help educators develop a framework for AIM implementation. Participants will then go through a hands-on tutorial on AIM implementation, using a widely used resource called Bookshare. Participants will learn how to set up and manage Bookshare accounts, create rosters of NIMAC-eligible student members, add additional teacher administrators, browse and search for NIMAC books, request NIMAC books to be added to the collection and read NIMAC books with a variety of freely available and widely used commercial assistive technology.
Presenters:
Kristina King Cohen
10/12/2011
11am-12pm
Improving Student Performance with the Intel Reader: A Hands-On Presentation
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
11:00 am -
12:00 pm
Location: Plaza 6
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
Accessing text can be difficult for people with reading-based learning disabilities. The Intel Reader is assistive technology that takes a picture of printed text and reads it aloud. Based on the results of a recent study, under certain conditions, it can be expected that students using the Intel Reader could increase their reading comprehension test scores by as much as 23 percent, moving some students from failing to passing and others from passing to excelling. You will learn how to use the device as an accommodation and to reduce the amount of time teachers spend preparing accessible instructional materials.
Presenters:
Lou Meier
10/12/2011
2pm-3pm
Introducing Bookstream: Your e-Book Cloud, their iPads, Laptops, Smartphones
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
2:00 pm -
3:00 pm
Location: Atrium 8
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
Your students are no longer tethered to one computer. They have iPads, tablet PCs, Androids and smartphones and they need an easy way to read their books on their devices. This is why we made Bookstream. It's the easiest way to manage and share your e-Books and it's all online. There is no software to install and maintain and no devices to sync. Set-up takes less than 30 minutes. Simply upload your e-Book files to Bookstream and share with your students. If you're looking for an easier way to implement accessible instructional materials, run, don't walk to this session!
Presenters:
Mary Jo Barry
Ben Johnston
10/13/2011
2pm-4:30pm
Literacy Lab: Integration of Boardmaker Studio to Enhance Literacy Instruction (2nd of Two Block Session)
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
2:00 pm -
4:30 pm
Location: Plaza 1 PC Lab
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: PC hands-on workshop
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Beginner
10/13/2011
2pm-4:30pm
Literacy Lab: Integration of Boardmaker Studio to Enhance Literacy Instruction (Two Block Session)
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
2:00 pm -
4:30 pm
Location: Plaza 1 PC Lab
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: PC hands-on workshop
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
This practical session will provide hands-on exploration of the Studio Starter Templates in Boardmaker Studio that can be used to create a range of literacy learning instructional activities. Templates that will be used in this session provide learners with access to the following key opportunities: to read with instructional supports, to engage in phonological learning through exploration, to develop knowledge of words through word study, and to write for varied purposes and audiences. The knowledge participants will leave this session with can be easily generalized to all instructional uses of Boardmaker Studio outside of literacy learning.
Presenters:
Enid Hurtado
10/12/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Make the APPsolute Fit: Select the Right Mobile Device Apps
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 1
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
Availability of free and low cost apps for mobile devices has grown exponentially. Many practitioners and families have turned to these less expensive tools and content, hoping for a simple and affordable way to accommodate learners with special needs. However, we must keep already known decision-making processes in mind when designing and recommending interventions. Practitioners need to be careful of magic wand syndrome. Take care to make the fit for the user just as you would for any other assistive technology. One decision-making process is the Stages Framework. The focus on learners with cognitive and language delay helps to narrow the scope of the apps being considered. Recommended apps that purposely align with the Stages Framework will be demonstrated and accompanied by a thorough handout.
Presenters:
Madalaine Pugliese
10/12/2011
8am-9am
Making Text Cognitively Accessible for Students with Learning Disabilities
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Atrium 6
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Reading is a deficit area for many students with IEPs. It is difficult to close the achievement gap when instructional materials are not at an appropriate independent reading level. The purpose of this presentation is to review issues associated with instruction and remediation of reading problems and the many ways technology can be used to compensate for poor reading skills. Participants will receive a resource guide of tools that can be used to provide assistive technology for reading. Selected tools will be demonstrated and discussed. The presenter will demonstrate an easy-to-implement method for measuring outcomes of reading assistive technology and caution participants about issues of bias and misperceptions of fairness that often undermine decisions about the use of appropriate assistive technologies for reading.
Presenters:
Dave Edyburn
10/13/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Medialexie Toolbar
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Verandas 5-8
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
The Medialexie Toolbar (MTB) is a unique assistive technological tool that has personalized applications to diverse student populations. The MTB will be demonstrated to show the unique individual applications and academic instructional applications. Participants will be introduced to the multiple components available for creating individual student profiles with the MTB. After creating a student profile, participants will be introduced to the various tools (the Dictation tool, Reader, Viewer, Editor, etc.) and how they are used in the educational environment. The final part of the session will include demonstration of the MTB to reading, writing and grade content instruction.
Presenters:
Valerie Bon Mardion
Maureen Spencer
10/12/2011
8am-9am
Sing a Song of Six Paints
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Edina
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
This presentation will offer examples of different assistive technology tools used during art and music collaborative class. Demonstrations will be given of both high and low assistive technology tools. Video examples will be utilized to aid in supporting the discussion. The videos will show lessons using assistive technology tools, including, but not limited to, communication devices, SMART Board, All-Turn-It, sequential voice output, Pinwheel, adaptive gloves and adapted scissors. Examples will also demonstrate the use of a variety of mobility equipment. Video examples will also include lessons that utilize assistive technology to enable students to create their own art and music. A list of resources will be provided, as well as written examples of lesson plans demonstrated in videos.
Presenters:
Cecille Augusta
Casey Burd
Monique Pica
Tara Schroeder
10/14/2011
12:30pm-1:30pm
Teen Writer's Group: Making Communication and Writing Fun!
Date:
Fri, Oct 14, 2011
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Atrium 7
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
This presentation will highlight a specialized writer's group for teens with various levels of special needs. The Teen Writer's Group at the Perlman Center's Assistive Technology Center was staffed by a teacher, OT and SLP. The group sessions focused on improving both communication skills and written language skills. The teens in the group ranged from being verbal to using high tech communication devices. A variety of access methods were also used. Computer writing supports were addressed and implemented as needed. A variety of software programs and special project ideas that increased the teens' motivation to write will be presented. Collaboration with the teens' school teams and observations of the teens in their school environment were also an important part of the program.
Presenters:
Katherine Eingle
Jennifer Tincher
Elizabeth Willig Kroner
10/12/2011
12:30pm-1:30pm
The AIM Navigator: Guiding the Way Through Decision-Making About Accessible Instructional Materials
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Atrium 7
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
The AIM Navigator is a free, online interactive tool that facilitates the team process of decision-making around AIM for an individual student. Join us for an interactive discussion and demonstration of the four major decision points, guiding questions and useful references and resources specifically related to each decision point, as well as the scaffolds built into the system to support informed, accurate decisions. Participants will see how teams, working through the AIM Navigator, create a well-organized summary of their decisions and discussions and learn about the running To-Do List and other features that are included in the AIM Navigator.
Presenters:
Joy Zabala
10/13/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Tips, Tricks and Strategies for Using Speech Recognition to Increase Productivity
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 7
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
This presentation will demonstrate the newest features and uses of speech recognition software and provide valuable implementation tips, tricks and strategies. A demonstration of Dragon NaturallySpeaking 11 (PC) and Dragon Dictate (Mac) will show how speech recognition is being used for personal and professional use in schools and by industries throughout the nation as an additional inputting device and assistive technology tool. See for yourself how speech recognition has improved over the last decade and how it is helping students at all levels increase their overall productivity and improve their reading, writing and speaking skills. Research information and overall best practices will be shared. Time will also be given for audience participation and questions/answers. Come learn more about how you can integrate this improved technology.
10/13/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Tools and Strategies for Using Electronic Large-Print Textbooks
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 8
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Shifting from paper-based large prints to electronic files can be challenging. This presentation will provide strategies to help students with low vision and their teachers utilize electronic large-print effectively, whether learning to read or accessing content in middle and high school classrooms. Strategies for success will include selecting font size/type, accessing enlarged text, managing text-to-speech techniques, utilizing panning, masking and line marking, as well as built-in accessibility features found in Microsoft Word/Windows 7, Adobe Acrobat and on mobile technologies (i.e., iPad, Kindle). Successful strategies will be presented through case study examples. Participants will receive handouts of resources for integrating these strategies.
Presenters:
Cindy George
Kristine Neuber
10/13/2011
8am-9am
Track It YOUR Way with Assistive Technology Tracker Web
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Atrium 1
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
The Web version of Assistive Technology Tracker (ATT) has now been developed. ATT Web is an online database that can be used from any location if you have access to a browser on any device that has access to the Internet. You can track your AT, RTI and AIM from any location. From all the information that is gathered from this data, you can print out reports to reflect all the things you are tracking. This presentation will provide information on how you can become an ATT Web user. The Web version of ATT is completely 508 compatible, and people with vision impairments now have access to all their data and reports on the ATT Web version.
Presenters:
Sherry Hollingsworth
10/13/2011
8am-10:30am
Train the Trainer: Boardmaker Studio (2nd of Two Block Session)
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Plaza 1 PC Lab
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: PC hands-on workshop
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Intermediate
10/13/2011
8am-10:30am
Train the Trainer: Boardmaker Studio (Two Block Session)
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Plaza 1 PC Lab
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: PC hands-on workshop
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
One of the most used and implemented educational programs in special education instructional settings, Boardmaker Software Family, has recently added a new member to the family, Boardmaker Studio. To ensure that this program enhances a student's learning in different educational settings, the Mayer-Johnson training team will provide specific instruction, materials, tools and tips that will not only enable trainers of Boardmaker Studio to deliver effective instruction to their educational team of teachers and direct service providers, but also be able to assess their team's use of Boardmaker Studio and provide effective follow-up resources.
Presenters:
Enid Hurtado
10/13/2011
11am-12pm
Universal Design for Art: Low-Tech Options for Adults with Disabilities
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
11:00 am -
12:00 pm
Location: Edina
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Art is a wonderful form of communication. Low tech assistive technology can be a way to enable individuals with physical, cognitive and/or communication challenges to participate in this enriching experience. Come see how one program is using affordable and simple options and incorporating the concepts of universal design for learning to support adults with disabilities to create works of art. Staff and clients will discuss various art projects they have completed and the low tech assistive technology and techniques they used. Several techniques will be demonstrated during the session.
Presenters:
Jennie Delisi
10/12/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Using Read Naturally's Fluency Program with Blind and Visually Impaired Students
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 8
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
Read Naturally provides supplemental reading intervention materials for struggling students. In evaluating the latest reading research, we came across several articles that discussed an increased push for Braille literacy amongst blind and visually impaired students. Many of the articles explained that only one blind student out of 10 can read Braille. While technology has been a blessing, many students rely on this technology and have not learned Braille skills. Only 30 percent of the legally blind population is gainfully employed, and 80 percent of those employed are employed because they know Braille. Read Naturally, in working with the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, has developed resources that make it possible for blind and visually impaired students to work on reading/Braille fluency.
Presenters:
Lynne Hendrickson
Karen Hunter
10/12/2011
12:30pm-1:30pm
Utilizing a Structured Teaching Framework to Support Diverse AAC Learners
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Atrium 8
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
AAC/AT users are a diverse group of learners with complex communication needs. In addition, a combination of physical, cognitive and/or language difficulties often requires customized curricular supports to ensure the individual's success in a school-based environment. This presentation describes how the use of a systematic, four-step framework facilitates advancement towards an individual's academic and communication goals, while simultaneously supporting staff implementation of AAC/AT supports. In addition, real video and picture examples of tangible implementation techniques and activities during an AAC program will be presented to provide attendees with a rich, informative experience.
Presenters:
Nerissa Hall
Hillary Jellison
10/12/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Video Modeling and AAC Instruction
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Plaza 4
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
This session will highlight the use of video modeling as a method of teaching social conversations with AAC users at beginning communication levels. This session is appropriate for any student that is not moving forward with AAC from a light or high tech perspective. Specific strategies, video case examples and a model classroom with both pre and post results, as well as results from a year-long pilot study, will be presented.
Presenters:
Pati King DeBaun
10/13/2011
8am-9am
We've Got Cause and Effect, Now What?
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Plaza 3
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Are you struggling with helping your switch users get from cause and effect to effective choice making? This fast-paced presentation will demonstrate a variety of software applications designed to develop those basic skills that emerging switch users require to become effective and efficient scanners. These include cause and effect with a goal, multiple-switches/multiple functions, simple timing, waiting (not hitting the switch) and attending to the screen. We maximize opportunities for successful switch use by introducing a variety of motivating activities in which the student controls the computer (not the other way around).
Presenters:
Jon Adams
Mark Larson
Elliot Pludwinski
10/12/2011
9:30am-10:30am
What You Can Do with Acrobat Pro X
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Verandas 1-4
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
The purpose of this fast-paced one-hour presentation is to show just what Adobe Acrobat Pro can do for you as a professional and for the students with whom you work. Learn about portfolios, digitized worksheets, talking on-screen flashcards, digital measuring, hypertext reading aids and more. You will see actual work samples, learn how long they take to create and discover how you or your students will use them in the free program, Acrobat Reader or, in some cases, on the iPad. Finished files will be made available at our Web site through a password given at the presentation.
Presenters:
Judith Sweeney
10/12/2011
12:30pm-3pm
What's in Your AAC Briefcase? (2nd of Two Block Session)
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
12:30 pm -
3:00 pm
Location: Bloomington
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
10/12/2011
12:30pm-3pm
What's in Your AAC Briefcase? (Two Block Session)
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
12:30 pm -
3:00 pm
Location: Bloomington
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
As an agency, you've "bought into" the concept of providing students with a visually supported, thematically integrated curriculum. You have even created these visual supports using the tenants of Universal Design to help you address a fuller spectrum of student needs within your agency. The "tipping point", however, is how do you manage these visual supports in a way that expedites implementation, builds a lasting AAC program and benefits all team members within the agency. The Solution: the Briefcase Concept. This innovative tool uses Classroom Suite software to organize and launch files created using a variety of software authoring programs (PowerPoint, SuperSwitch Ensemble, Switch Maker 2, Smart Notebook, Kidspiration, Boardmaker, Speaking Dynamically Pro). Numerous videotapes will be shown to highlight how an interdisciplinary team uses the Briefcase Concept to maximize student training and progress in the areas of motor access, augmentative communication, language development and literacy. The content of this workshop should be of interest to a full range of disciplines and should be of benefit to a broad spectrum of students with special needs.
Presenters:
Carol Goossens'
Patricia Snyder
assessment
10/12/2011
9:30am-10:30am
"But What if the Teachers Won't Do It?" Tips for Successful AT Consultation
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 6
Category: assessment
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Advanced
Description:
If you find that the professionals you work with can be more challenging than the kids, this session is for you! We feel your pain and we are here to help. As veteran consultants ourselves, we are very familiar with the struggle of promoting change with individuals and site teams in the public school setting. This session will focus on key concepts to help you force people to do the things you want, with just one swipe of our magic wands. Either that, or we will discuss the key components of our program and approach, developed through years of experience as consultants, that we find most helpful to facilitate successful AT service delivery.
Presenters:
Keri Huddleston
Teru Langsdale
Moira Soulia
10/12/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Assessing During Instruction: Measuring REAL Success in Literacy and Communication
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Edina
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
This session will share ideas for assessing communication and literacy skills within the context of ongoing activities for the purposes of informing instruction and progress monitoring. We will share examples of practical assessment tools and strategies that can support educators working with students who have significant disabilities, including students who use AAC.
Presenters:
Linda Burkhart
Caroline Musselwhite
10/12/2011
3:30pm-4:30pm
Assistive Technology in Special Education: The Role of Occupational Therapy
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
3:30 pm -
4:30 pm
Location: Atrium 1
Category: assessment
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
Occupational therapy provides support to students eligible for special education within the context of their educational program. The term "occupation" refers to goal-directed use of time, interest, energy and attention. Within the context of autism, OT refers to the full range of methods to diminish sensory and motor problems and to enhance occupations and engagement in the tasks of life (Huebner and Dunn 2001). Areas of student performance related to occupational therapy include postural stability, strength and range of motion, fine motor skills, visual motor abilities, sensory processing, motor planning/praxis and self-help skills as related to school performance. Occupational therapy and assistive technology complement each other in many areas, and ways to collaborate and benefit from each other's expertise will be identified.
Presenters:
Silke Hamilton
Rosemond Seligson
10/12/2011
8am-10:30am
AT Assessment Strategies for Individuals with Significant Sensory Motor Differences (2nd of Two Block Session)
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 7
Category: assessment
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Intermediate
10/12/2011
8am-10:30am
AT Assessment Strategies for Individuals with Significant Sensory Motor Differences (Two Block Session)
Date:
Wed, Oct 12, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 7
Category: assessment
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Assessment is too often a product-based approach rather than a process-based approach. Assessment strategies used for individuals with significant sensory/motor differences often fail to provide the information needed to guide the AT process. Research identifies seven inherent weaknesses in assessment strategies typically used with this target population. This session will provide participants with strategies to form the appropriate assessment question(s), identify and collect the necessary information in order to match the strategies and tools to the consumer and summarize assessment results in a manner that guides intervention.
Presenters:
Terry Foss
Jane Korsten
10/13/2011
9:30am-10:30am
Better Computer Access Solutions Through the Use of Evidence
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Plaza 3
Category: assessment
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Come learn how to use evidence as a powerful tool to improve computer access interventions. Effective use of evidence-based practice requires both knowledge of the existing evidence base and the ability to collect and analyze for a particular client. But how do we apply existing research evidence to the needs of one specific individual? How can we gather additional evidence validly and efficiently? And how do we use and interpret the evidence effectively in our decision-making process? This presentation addresses these questions using a practical approach. We will review research results that are applicable to computer access and examine tools for collecting and analyzing evidence. We will provide specific examples, covering the major input device domains of switch use, pointing device use and text entry.
Presenters:
Heidi Koester
10/14/2011
8am-10:30am
Computer and iPad Access: Tools for Equalizing the Playing Field (2nd of Two Block Session)
Date:
Fri, Oct 14, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Plaza 2
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
10/14/2011
8am-10:30am
Computer and iPad Access: Tools for Equalizing the Playing Field (Two Block Session)
Date:
Fri, Oct 14, 2011
from
8:00 am -
10:30 am
Location: Plaza 2
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Let's run the bases to discover the aspects of assessing the most efficient way for someone to access computer functions. There are three bases: mouse click, mouse movement and keyboarding. These can be achieved through hardware or software. The game also includes reading and writing supports. We will demonstrate and discuss options for iPad access for individuals with disabilities, including accessibility features, stylus options and modifications, mounts, cases and switch interface. Some accessibility features of iPad applications will be discussed. Participants will learn ways to bring the technology of the iPad to more individuals with disabilities who may benefit from this technology. Participants will discover ways to assess computer access with utilization of free resources and clinical reasoning from years of experience by the presenters.
Presenters:
Patricia Bahr
Katie Duff
10/13/2011
2pm-4:30pm
Data Collection for Software Use (2nd of Two Block Session)
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
2:00 pm -
4:30 pm
Location: Atrium 1
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Advanced
Computer Level:
Advanced
10/13/2011
2pm-4:30pm
Data Collection for Software Use (Two Block Session)
Date:
Thu, Oct 13, 2011
from
2:00 pm -
4:30 pm
Location: Atrium 1
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Advanced
Computer Level:
Advanced
Description:
Do you need to collect data to show student use and growth with various software programs that do not include their own data collection? This presentation will show you how to create easy-to-use data collection forms that show the computer screen, along with easy-to-fill-in collection details, using Acrobat, Word and PowerPoint. You will learn how to create on-screen rubber stamps, capture screen images, create custom placeholder layouts and more. Then, when the student uses the program, you can easily collect data about his or her use, screen by screen. You'll receive step-by-step directions, as well as access to our Web site for already created digital rubber stamps and other data collection files.
Presenters:
Judith Sweeney
10/14/2011
12:30pm-1:30pm
Essential Communication Skills, an Assessment and Intervention Tool for Individuals with Comprehensive Communication Needs
Date:
Fri, Oct 14, 2011
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Plaza 5
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
The District 287 augmentative communication consultants have created an assessment and intervention tool for individuals with comprehensive communication needs. During our work with students that have significant cognitive and physical challenges, we found it difficult to consistently assess a student and obtain relevant data in order to demonstrate progress through educational programming/therapy. Combining our years of experience with these students, we were able to develop a process to assess current performance, design relevant goals and objectives and also provide comparison data over time. We chose those skills that reflect areas that significantly affect the quality of life of these individuals. It is our hope that this tool will provide focus for current interventions, as well as outline a long term plan.
Presenters:
Diane Gerads Schmidt
Barb Skelly
What participants have said
This was my 1st time at this conference and I've left with a wealth of information!!!
~AT Educational Consultant
Closing The Gap is a conference like no other -- all aspects add to the MAGIC of CTG!
~Parent Support Liaison
Would absolutely rate this as one of the top five conferences I have attended in my 20+ years as a special educator.
~Special Education Consultant
