Over 200 Presentations

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Are you looking for switch activities? Experts say that emerging switch users should get at least 300 opportunities for meaningful and successful switch hits every day. Heck, we can do 300 switch hits in an hour! In this fast-paced presentation, we will demonstrate dozens of engaging, age-appropriate switch-accessible activities designed to develop those skills that your students need to become proficient switch users. From cause and effect to making choices, whether it's games, story telling or music, the emphasis will be on fun! Brought to you by three guys who collectively have over 70 years of experience with switches and adapted computer applications.

Presenters:
Jon Adams
Mark Larson
Elliot Pludwinski

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
This presentation is helpful for anyone working with a child with multiple impairments that make discrimination difficult to learn. We base our presentation on a case study of a child with multiple impairments. You will understand why sound, instead of language, is a useful tool for children with visual and cognitive impairments. You'll see the sound-based alternative method used to help a student learn discrimination and we'll discuss the future applications of the learned skills. You'll learn how positioning, managing distractions, visual issues associated with a cortical vision impairment and developing a reward affect the child's success.

Presenters:
Christine Bothun
Sudharsan R. Iyengar

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Not sure about how to decide which students need accessible versions of print-based instructional materials?... or which formats are needed? ... or where to get the formats? ... or what else might be needed for students to USE the formats for educational participation and achievement? If you're thinking a lot about these questions, this session is for YOU! Join Joy and Joan for a tour through a sweet suite of decision-making tools that were developed by the AIM Consortium and are yours to use – most for free – from the National Center for Accessible Instructional Materials!

Presenters:
Joan Breslin Larson
Joy Zabala

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: PC hands-on workshop company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
This hands-on lab will introduce the basics of alternative formats. Perfect for DSS officers, low vision and blindness specialists and LD advisors, this session will walk participants through each of the stages of creating high quality alternative formats. These formats will include MP3, large print, Braille and accessible eBook learning materials. Using fictional case study, students and real life education content, attendees will make an alt format for their case study, including processing "tricky" pdfs or slicing and scanning print books. Attendees will then examine their alt format against the quality standards identified at the beginning of the session, answering questions, such as "Would this alternative format edition meet the requirements of my fictional student?" The session will include numerous tips, tricks and practical advice.

Presenters:
Jeff Bazer

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Eastern Mennonite University and Rockingham County Public Schools have teamed together to provide college education majors the opportunity to explore various forms of assistive technology. These dedicated students then created adapted materials, under the guidance of the public school assistive technology team, to benefit the county special education students. Both sets of students are better equipped for the future! Other possibilities for community teaming will be discussed.

Presenters:
Kathy Foster
Katrina Maynard

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
Learn how students with print disabilities are benefiting from access to Bookshare. Bookshare, an online library of digital books for readers with print disabilities, will show you how teachers and students with print disabilities are using digital textbooks to gain access to the general curriculum. You'll hear about these students and learn tips for implementing Bookshare in your classroom. You'll leave this session with some concrete strategies for incorporating accessible textbooks and assistive reader technology in your classroom.

Presenters:
Kristina King Cohen

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: Mac hands-on workshop company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Maybe you're familiar with the name "Co:Writer" or have used a version of it (it's been used in over 5,000 schools for two decades now), but have you seen or touched the latest version, Co:Writer 6? If not, you must attend! Co:Writer 6 is so simple that your students will be writing in seconds and you can train your staff in just 30 minutes. Hands-on, we will work through our new 30-Minute Tutorial that makes teaching Co:Writer to others as easy as 1-2-3! This process will not only empower you to go back to your setting and instantly show your students how to get writing in seconds, but also how to replicate this lab to deliver professional development in your setting.

Presenters:
Marci Butler
Ben Johnston

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Young children need opportunities to explore and play with books, rhymes, sounds and language/literacy-based activities. As they develop, they need opportunities to explore phonics, words, independent reading and writing. Highlights of this session will include case examples and demonstrated computer-based activities/strategies for a range of abilities with a range of access techniques.

Presenters:
Pati King DeBaun

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: PC hands-on workshop

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
This highly interactive presentation will provide hands-on demonstration in using free and low cost assistive technologies, such as speech-to-text, accessibility tools in Word, adding voice narration to presentations, ideas for using digital media in student projects and creating E-Portfolios to meet individual student learning goals. Participants will be able to practice using Fusion writers to enhance student engagement, using features such as word prediction and speech-to-text; practice using accessibility features in MS Office programs, such as Word and PowerPoint; visit and explore Web site resources that enhance student writing; and learn about E-Portfolios and develop a brief sample E-Portfolio. Participants will leave the hands-on session with a wealth of knowledge and materials to use immediately in classrooms.

Presenters:
Jennifer Courduff
Donna Mawhorter

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
The purpose of this computerized intervention system model is to facilitate ongoing communication between all team members, which may include teachers, paraprofessionals, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech and language pathologists, psychologists, students and families. Students' activity charts contain progress notes and links to digital video files stored on the school's Web site or free online accounts that can be accessed by all team members to add ongoing progress, comments, questions and specific recommendations. Lecture, video clips and activity chart handouts that can be duplicated for educational use will provide participants with learning experiences and practical strategies to take back to the classroom and/or home environments. Case examples of students with learning disabilities will demonstrate how to use and adapt the dynamic and interactive documentation model.

Presenters:
Rhoda P. Erhardt

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
The availability of eBooks is rapidly growing, but many DSS coordinators are unsure how learning disabled and vision impaired students can access these books. This session will answer this question, delivering a step-by-step demonstration of where to source eBooks and available formats. The session will also demonstrate how the EasyReader software DAISY player provides eBook accessibility to low vision, blind and learning disabled students. The session will also explain how all readers can directly access materials from Google Books, Bookshare and Project Guttenberg via the new EasyReader Bookshelf feature.

Presenters:
Jeff Bazer

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
A comprehensive math curriculum aligned to general education math standards has been developed for students with mild, moderate and severe/profound disabilities. Equals Mathematics covers a broad spectrum of standards-based objectives that start at the very beginning of math concepts for learners with little or no experience in math education and then develop higher math concepts in five additional content areas. Participants will be given an overview of Equals Math and the research behind it, with specific examples of general education and special education best practice methodologies. Demonstration of these methodologies using kit materials, manipulatives, tools and assistive technology will be included.

Presenters:
Ann Meyer
Karen Ross Brown

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
A number of researchers have concluded that both curricular design and teacher behavior directly influence the math achievement of students with disabilities. The new fraction tools of Conceptua Math (www.conceptuamath.com) support both the teacher and the student as they build the conceptual understanding of fractions, learn the procedural steps and apply their learning to solve problems. Participants will learn how to scaffold instruction using multiple representations, manipulatives and the models available in the free Conceptua Math.

Presenters:
Kelly Fonner
Scott Marfilius

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Click to Read is a series of interactive computer activities especially designed to support the curriculum needs of students with moderate to severe language challenges. Each CD engages students with four meaningful and relevant stories with graphic support using SymbolStix. After hearing the story read to them, students are given opportunities to further practice key vocabulary through retelling the story in cloze format, vocabulary matching and simple games. Three student levels address specific student learning abilities. Further customize the student experience with built-in scanning access and variable color display.

Presenters:
Julie Rick

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
You just launched a new widespread AT initiative. You are really excited and several key people are on board. You hold regular trainings, but only a few people show up. You try to promote it, but can't seem to excite people. Can't other people in your district see the impact AT has on student performance, their confidence and ultimately their very success in the world? Why can't you seem to get the initiative off the runway and into the air? Why won't the initiative grow to the size you imagined? We'll walk you through the critical areas that need to be addressed in your implementation plan, as well as some specific strategies to address each area.

Presenters:
Mary Jo Barry

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: PC hands-on workshop

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Do you think Inspiration is just a brainstorming tool for students? Think again. Like most common software tools in the classroom, Inspiration can be creatively leveraged to help you reach your classroom of diverse learners. Learn how to create dynamic presentations and engaging materials. Bring your own creative examples or e-mail them to the presenter (jen@cforat.org) so we can all learn from each other. Presented in a flexible graphic style that promotes audience input and interaction.

Presenters:
Jennifer McDonald-Peltier

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
If you or anyone you know is thinking that all will be well once you get print-based instructional materials in accessible formats (AIM), well ... this session is for you! After an IEP team determines that a student needs accessible instruction materials (AIM) and chooses the tools that a student with disabilities will use to gain access to core instructional materials, the real work is just getting started! Join Gayl and Joy for a fast-paced overview of implementation planning, inclusion strategies and evaluation of the effectiveness of the use of AIM that are essential if AIM is to be useful for student learning. Participants in this session will share ideas and stories focusing on developing excellent instructional environments for all students, including those who use AIM.

Presenters:
Gayl Bowser
Joy Zabala

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: hands-on workshop (no computers)

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Accessing text can be difficult for people with blindness, low vision or reading-based learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. The Intel Reader is an assistive technology device that helps students become more independent and can help to reduce the amount of time teachers spend preparing accessible instructional materials. A mobile handheld device, the Intel Reader takes pictures of printed text and reads it back to the user through its speaker or ear phones. In this hands-on workshop, you will learn how to use the device to convert printed text to DAISY, MP3, JPEG and TXT files and how to export them to a PC or MP3 player. You will also learn how to use the Intel Portable Capture Station to make it easier to capture and store large amounts of text, such as a text book.

Presenters:
Cleon Wellington

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
The Logan Prox Talker is an assistive technology voice output device designed specifically to address the needs of PECS users who are not ready for a dynamic screen device but have exceeded the capabilities of a fixed position voice output device. Participants will learn the basis of the Prox Talker and various learning applications. Participants will also see a student who uses the Prox Talker daily in school, at home and in the community.

Presenters:
James Rogers
Marcy Szarkowski

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) specifies that each state, system and school must be held accountable for the achievement of all students, including students with disabilities (SWD). Every school and educator is now accountable for ensuring that all SWD are being given appropriate opportunities to learn the general curriculum. What is a teacher to do? How do you meet the individual needs of students and be accountable for the requirements of NCLB? Discover creative ways to assure SWD gain access to the general curriculum and learn core academic content similar to grade level peers. Explore the use of inventive strategies, imaginative materials and thematic instruction to tie together English language arts, math, science and social studies. Participants will receive a CD containing valuable resources for Making All the Difference.

Presenters:
Karen Barineau
Elizabeth (Libby) Rush

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
This session is for those professionals who work with a range of communication and cognitive disabilities (autism, cerebral palsy, severe articulation and/or language delays, multiple disabilities and other developmental disabilities) in inclusive classrooms, Head Start and special education programs. The emphasis will be on how to create a "universal teaching language" that can be utilized for all students. Participants will learn how to write scripts for learning activities and make simple adaptations to routine activities. The emphasis is placed on user-friendly and easy adaptations for teachers and class support personnel so that all students can successfully participate in literacy- and language-based activities. Participants who attend this session will receive a special code to download free materials to use in their classrooms!

Presenters:
Pati King DeBaun

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: company-affiliated demonstration Mac hands-on workshop

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
A movement is underway to make classroom books accessible to students with disabilities. Textbook publishers are beginning to create accessible digital versions of their books, and many books are now available online. With this momentum, it's hard to imagine a world without widely available accessible eBooks. But these books won't come to you without your help. You're the shift leader in your district. Have you prepared your plan to make your district's curriculum accessible? In addition, we'll address the most important topic of all – implementation – how to get the buy-in and inter-department collaboration you need to get your AIM initiative off the ground and how to get classroom educators excited and on board to learn, use and integrate technology into their day-to-day instruction.

Presenters:
Zachary Bender
Ben Johnston

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
This presentation will demonstrate how you can track it ALL. Assistive Technology (AT), Response to Intervention (RTI) and Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM) can all be tracked, and the best part of it all is that you can do this from anywhere! Educators and other agencies today need a dependable way to track the services that they provide to people with disabilities. This comprehensive database is not just for educators. If you have access to the Internet on any device with a browser, you can track all your data for AT, RTI or AIM.

Presenters:
Sherry Hollingsworth

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Early evidence attests to improved outcomes for students with print disabilities who use digital books. Bookshare is an online library of accessible digital books for readers with print disabilities and membership is free for all qualified U.S. students. Currently, more than 99,000 Bookshare members enjoy easy access to more than 71,000 digital books. These include textbooks, teacher recommended reading and award-winning books for both children and adults. With Bookshare, students with print disabilities can now enjoy reading, get textbooks in accessible formats and keep up with their school assignments. This session will help explain how digital books and technology from Bookshare can equalize educational opportunities for students with print disabilities and motivate them to read and study independently.

Presenters:
Christine Jones

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: accessible instructional material
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
Are you still stressing out because you are responsible for providing accessible instructional print materials? Are you confused about selecting the appropriate format? Based on feedback from last year's presentation, we are back to discuss the IEP team's role in matching accessible print formats based on student need and features of reading tools. The tools include text reader software and hardware devices that enable reading of textbooks, trade books and other print materials in specialized eBook formats (i.e., DAISY, large print, audio). Participants will receive a comparison chart outlining the reading tools that highlight product type, features and formats.

Presenters:
Cindy George
Marci Kinas Jerome

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: assessment
Format: networking session / discussion

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
How do you implement a long-term program that addresses competency-based assessment, demonstrates learner progress over time, facilitates accountability and helps you select developmentally appropriate skill-building curriculum materials? Find out how to make smart spending decisions to get the most impact from a limited budget. Join a panel of special educators who will share how they have successfully implemented Stages programs in various settings to support their curriculum. Do you have limited experiences using Stages and the Report Wizard? This provides a great way to see best practice models. If you are already using Stages, this provides opportunity to grow ideas for maximum effect.

Presenters:
Darlene Brodbeck
Mark Coppin
Madalaine Pugliese

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
Amazing new accessible assessment templates are now available for Classroom Suite. Are you seeking universal design to support your students' learning and access challenges? Students need the opportunity to practice with feedback and support. The new Accessible Assessment wizards allow you to easily input curriculum materials. The student gets direct feedback. You get data necessary to monitor and evaluate student progress. You can also annotate the assessment process, which directly becomes part of the data report! The focus is student feedback, easy authoring and data collection. Ask yourself – is this a need or a want?

Presenters:
Suzanne Feit

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: assessment
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Does what you count really count when you are making AT decisions? Evaluating the effectiveness of tools and strategies is a critical part of what AT teams must do, and yet, it is often the least clearly understood part of the AT process. Although professional training courses are offered in statistics, there are few training opportunities to learn about real world data collection. Learning about what counts as data, determining what type of data counts, deciding upon environmentally friendly ways to collect it, knowing how to analyze data and determining actions based on it are vital. It is possible to collect the wrong kind of data and not be able to document skill mastery or the effectiveness of an intervention.

Presenters:
Terry Foss
Jane Korsten

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
Head access is frequently presumed to not be an adequate site as, frequently, children with complex bodies (increased tone, fluctuating tone, low tone, cerebral palsy, brain injury, etc.) do not appear to demonstrate "adequate, consistent" head control. Yet, when hands are expected to work, these, also, do not appear to be able to manage switch access to activity adequately. When access is not able to be utilized readily, then cognitive readiness is also compromised. This session will demonstrate and share not only the neurophysiology behind isolated extremity control, but will also share how seating, switch choice, switch placement, software choice and activity interest are all relevant to adequate head control use.

Presenters:
Karen Kangas

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
A big challenge in teaching students with significant communication impairments is trying to determine whether they can read or, if they can read, at what level. How can we assess students who cannot speak? The research of Dr. Karen Erickson and colleagues (Center for Literacy and Disability Studies, UNC-CH) suggests some alternative forms of reading assessment for nonverbal and low-verbal students. We will demonstrate how we took a popular informal reading inventory and, guided by Dr. Erickson's research, used it to create computerized informal reading assessments for these students (using Classroom Suite and ClozePro). Assessments were adapted in three areas – fluency, comprehension and word identification (accessible for mouse, switch and touch screen). Merry will present four case studies to show how these assessments guided instructional decisions.

Presenters:
Pamela Corley
Merry Fore

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: assessment
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
The ultimate outcome or goal of AAC assessment is effective use of communication. But how do you get there when there are few systematic assessment protocols available? This session will provide an overview of the major components of the AAC evaluation process, as well as the information that must be obtained for each area. A new, free protocol for AAC assessment will be discussed. Current, budget-conscious devices and materials that are fundamental to testing various functions of communication and AAC utilization will be identified and addressed. Tools to assist with the decision making process will be reviewed. Participants will receive a CD with new and tried-and-true resources and strategies for working better, smarter and faster.

Presenters:
Celeste Helling
Elizabeth (Libby) Rush

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
This presentation will look at the issue of student self-assessment (grades 7-12), especially in terms of low and mid tech tools. You will be introduced to the new 2010 version of Personal Choices, a booklet with associated tools designed for use by older students as they find and decide on using the best low and mid tech tools for reading, writing, math, organization and other academic-based tasks, based both on their needs and relative strengths. The presentation will look at optional uses of Personal Choices, including allowing students to work through the process themselves, as part of a study skills class or group, with teacher assistance as needed or totally as a teacher/evaluator directed assessment tool.

Presenters:
Judith Sweeney

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: assessment
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
The very "natural order of things" challenges the use of prompting. If one wants something, one must ask for it or work for it; if one does not ask or work, one may not get exactly what one wants; if one does not want that something, one does not ask or work for it. No matter what form prompting takes, it can be defined as "what the instructor does when she/he can not wait." Ask yourself Dr. Phil's famous question, "How's that workin' for ya?" Traditional prompting hierarchies and strategies may undermine the success of implementation strategies. When prompting strategies are introduced, the individual is taught to do something when led, while self-help, independence and self-advocacy are compromised. Failure to respond in a predetermined time leads to prompting, which is in conflict with the "natural order of things."

Presenters:
Terry Foss
Jane Korsten

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Category: assessment
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
The switch is not the activity. Our choice of switch type, switch placement and switch programming can truly prevent or support a child's participation, engagement and control of the learning of an activity. We need to "match" the access method to the activity and support children's engagement and use of the activity, not count switch hits. We need to be able to recognize, when an error is made, whether the error is a "cognitive" error or a "motor" error, and assist the child in continued activity engagement. If the child is not mastering activity and building competency in activity, then no amount of switch hitting or counting of switch hits will be relevant to that child's learning.

Presenters:
Karen Kangas
Lisa Rotelli

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: assessment
Format: lecture company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
The MECA (Microcomputer Evaluation of Careers and Academics) transition assessment and curriculum system utilizes high levels of technology to deliver assessments and transition services curriculum from middle school through high school, as well as adult populations. The Functional Skills System is an assessment and skill-building system for assisting individuals in developing independent living skills. The Functional Skills System provides easy-to-understand information that allows learners to become more capable of functioning independently in their homes, schools, communities and workplaces and increases the ability to make appropriate choices. Gaining functional literacy, social, life, work and math skills allows for freedom and independence. The Functional Skills System can be used in a variety of settings, utilizing the iPod touch.

Presenters:
Denise Carew
Michael Schmitz

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: assessment
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Are you being asked to provide students with access to the general education curriculum using alternate achievement standards while still working on functional skills? Has this seemed like an impossible task? Let us show you how to begin assessing students on the first day of school. We will present videos and models of modified materials created with Boardmaker Plus! and PixWriter, along with free resources available on the Internet. These have been used successfully in the classroom and are age appropriate and accessible by students with the most significant disabilities. You will leave feeling more confident about the process of individualizing general education curriculum.

Presenters:
Carrie Barglof
Donna Sennert

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
AAC evaluations are an overwhelming process for many who lack training, experience, knowledge or equipment. This workshop will demonstrate a variety of "tricks and toolkits of the AAC trade" when doing AAC evaluations on a budget – or if one just wants to "simplify" the evaluation process. The presenter will provide demonstrations, ideas for toolkit contents and case studies of communicators with the simplest to the most complex communication needs. Participants will leave with forms, toolkit suggestions and outlines that will guide them along the way to more effectively complete AAC evaluations for individuals with a wide range of age communication abilities.

Presenters:
Debby McBride

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: iPod hands-on workshop

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to use the new features in Proloquo2Go 2.0 for the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. With Proloquo2Go, children and adults with a wide range of speech impairments have access to a full-fledged mobile communication solution. Version 2 brings many new enhancements, which, along with basic vocabulary customization, will be explored through step-by-step tutorials under the guidance of the Proloquo2Go developers and experts.

Presenters:
Mark Coppin
Jennifer Marden
David Niemeijer

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Aided language stimulation is a process of modeling augmentative communication. It makes logical sense and it fits in relation to theories of language development. In two parts, this fast-moving workshop will help participants define the concept and identify ways to bring it into practice. First, the research related to aided language stimulation will be reviewed. The second part will include a lively demonstration of some of the most practical and innovative ways to bring aided language stimulation into practice for a diverse group of learners. The workshop will focus on how to provide aided language stimulation to individuals with physical access needs, developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders, and will pay attention to learners of various ages/AAC abilities.

Presenters:
Linda Burkhart
Joanne Cafiero
Caroline Musselwhite
Samuel Sennott

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration hands-on workshop (no computers)

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
This presentation will introduce the world's first Internet-based AAC system – Alexicom Tech. We will demonstrate the multiple ways this communication system can be used to meet the needs of a variety of individuals who are language impaired. We will address unique features and advantages of an Internet-based system. We will provide hands-on demonstrations of how to create pages to meet a user's specific needs. This will include how to select pictures from the Internet, how to create pages, how to copy images and pre-made pages from the public library and how to publish the pages to use off-line. You will also receive a free 45-day trial! (Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptop computer with wireless access to try many of the activities as they are presented.)

Presenters:
Staci Neustadt
Karen Suhm

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
This presentation will address introduction of eye gaze for children with emerging literacy skills, demonstrate a progression from beginning to advanced use and address problems along the way. Unique accommodations for those with visual impairments will be introduced. This presentation will feature the EyePro eye gaze system with various AAC software programs, including Say-it-Sam and Mind Express, and educational games with and without Internet access. Video tapes of AAC users will be incorporated to demonstrate positioning considerations and strategies and techniques to support successful use of eye access. Attendees will have the opportunity for hands-on (eyes-on, that is) experience.

Presenters:
Tanya Curtis

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
When acquiring an augmentative communication device, the steps for evaluating, researching and funding an AAC device can be time consuming and cumbersome. Once the evaluation is completed, the complex task of sorting through options and completing appropriate paperwork can further delay receipt of the device in a timely manner by the individual who needs "a voice." In this educational session, these barriers have been identified with solutions revealed. Participants will leave with forms, templates and resources that can simplify this process and expedite receipt of the AAC device by the individual.

Presenters:
Tanya Curtis
Debby McBride

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Do you want to learn about the power and potential of the innovative AAC revolution that's taking place? Come listen, learn and participate in a lively session focused on the iPhone, iPod touch, iPad and beyond. This session is meant to inspire and excite, yet, will remain grounded in a research base focused on play, language, UDL and AAC. The iPhone, iPod touch and iPad tablet are powerful communication tools in many ways. In addition to being able to run AAC software, such as Proloquo2Go, there is a staggering number of additional applications that may be used to facilitate communication for users at any stage of development.

Presenters:
Adam Bowker
Samuel Sennott

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
Are you working with students who have a broad range of language skills? Do you have young communicators who might be current/future AAC users? This presentation will outline how you can use that as an advantage. This team did it! In the process, they taught the entire class to become more effective communicators. With the help of a SMART Board and PalmChat Vocabulary, their students learned to put core words together to build their language skills. These strategies have successfully been used with elementary-aged students who have severe physical and/or cognitive disabilities. Come and watch the approach this team used to help their students. Everyone will leave with resources that they can immediately put to practice.

Presenters:
Lauren Ebersole
Donna Millar

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
This presentation will highlight strategies that enable girls with Rett Syndrome (RTT) to enhance their communication. The importance of identifying each girl's "best" means of access to technology and its impact on communication will be demonstrated. Specific page sets, configurations and activities that have improved girls' use of eye-controlled communication devices during eye gaze trials and daily conversations will be discussed in reference to video clips and data collection results. The importance of recognizing when a girl's sensory system is in a "regulated state" so that she is ready to communicate and participate in classroom activities will be discussed. A scale that is currently being used by classroom teachers and therapists for this purpose will be presented.

Presenters:
Judy Lariviere

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: PC hands-on workshop company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
For nonverbal students to have strategies to begin developing expressive language skills and for those individuals who scan to have a means of accessing a low tech communication tool, the Attainment Company brings you the Go Talk Express 32 and Go Talk Overlay Software! See the latest in the Go Talk product line – the Go Talk Express 32. This integrated (hardware and software demo) session will focus on practical applications and implementation ideas. You will have hands-on learning opportunities! If you do not already have the software in your tool kit or classroom, you might win a copy during this energizing session of ideas! Enjoy this hands-on opportunity to be creative and play during this session.

Presenters:
Joni Nygard

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Persons with severe cognitive, physical or sensory deficits are affected in all aspects of their lives. Their perceptions, experiences and learning styles are different from those of typical individuals. Providing means for receptive and expressive communication, opportunities for concept development and ways for exploring and understanding their environment is critical. Teaching strategies must be multi-modal, compensate for those senses that are diminished, maximize the others and enhance the ability to integrate all modalities. This session addresses four different tactile communication systems (textured symbols, object symbols, tactile signs/touch cues and movement-based communication) and how each helps persons with severe/profound disabilities understand and interact appropriately with their environments.

Presenters:
Elizabeth (Libby) Rush

Date: Sat, Oct 23, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Recent trends in society are converging to provide new opportunities and services for families with special needs. These trends include consumer driven services, assistive communication, cloud computing, social networking and touch screen technologies. This presentation will describe the elements and evolution of these phenomena and what this means to children with special needs and their families. The genesis of these trends will enable new forms of communication, business, technology and innovation that will significantly allow those requiring care to improve their quality of life.

Presenters:
Jon Erickson

Date: Fri, Oct 22, 2010 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Do you struggle with selecting an initial vocabulary set to teach your students? How do you know what words are important? Come learn about teaching a core vocabulary set evidenced in research by Banajee, Dicarlo, & Stricklin (2003) that can be used with beginning AAC users. Specific intervention plans and implementation ideas will be shared by a school-based SLP and clinic-based SLP. Case examples will be shared with the audience and will be supplemented by video and example therapy materials.

Presenters:
Trina Becker
Beth Leggitt

Date: Thu, Oct 21, 2010 from 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: iPod hands-on workshop company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to configure and use several key iPod touch and iPad applications targeted toward children and adults with special needs. This includes applications such as Proloquo2Go and ArtikPix. Since new apps are always becoming available, we will also include some of the hottest AT applications at the time of the conference. Instead of briefly covering dozens of apps, the session will focus in-depth on six to eight must-know apps.

Presenters:
Mark Coppin
David Niemeijer
Eric Sailers