Over 200 Presentations

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: assessment
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Students with ASD often have difficulty completing school assignments or completing work tasks. Sometimes these students do not even start an assignment. This presentation will show how to structure tasks for success, share explicit teaching strategies and demonstrate using Picture-Assisted Literacy supports to engage students and help build independent work skills. Attendees will learn about useful tools and prompts they can incorporate into their classrooms. All attendees will receive a CD with files they can use with their students.

Presenters:
Jean Slater

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: assessment
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
This session will provide an overview and live demonstration of the complete line of Origin Instruments' computer access assistive technology offerings for Windows and Macintosh, including customer case stories and videos. New to the session will be a demonstration of Origin Instruments' switch-based access solution for Amazon's popular Kindle 2 electronic book reader.

Presenters:
Mel Dashner
Cathy Kingeter

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: assessment
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
In this session, participants will learn to select and edit templates in Classroom Suite 4 to align curriculum practice activities with Stages diagnostic learner performance data. First, the Stages assessment software is used as a diagnostic in order to collect a learner's baseline performance measure in a different environment than the one used for everyday practice activity. Based on data captured, educators next determine curriculum areas in need of skills practice. Using Classroom Suite 4 templates, participants will learn how to differentiate and customize activities to successfully support students and document their progress using Report and Portfolio assessments. Handouts aligning Stages with templates available in Classroom Suite 4 will be provided, along with a demo CD.

Presenters:
Suzanne Feit
Madalaine Pugliese

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: assessment
Format: PC hands-on workshop company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
New features. New graphics. Same easy-to-use program. Come learn how Picture It is better than ever! You will learn all the latest and greatest ways to use the software during this Windows hands-on lab. Whether you are a first-time user or a veteran, this lab is for you. Learn the new features while you make schedules, worksheets, talking textbooks and more. Discover how easy adapting the curriculum is with the new and expanded Literacy Support Pictures focusing on vocabulary needed to meet standards in science and social studies. Participants will receive a Mac/Win resources CD with ready-to-use activities.

Presenters:
Roxanne Butterfield
Jean Slater

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: assessment
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Are you new to the Stages Framework? Do you have access to these powerful tools but need support getting started? This session presents the research behind the design of Stages accessible software diagnostic tools, developed to assess skill levels of learners with cognitive and language challenges. Learn to describe students using common language with IEP and curriculum planning teams. Explore the alternate assessment activities and accessibility features of Stages Alternate Assessment software and how to capture primary evidence data for learners who do not participate in standardized assessment. Learn strategies for selecting appropriate curriculum materials. See the Stages Report Wizard extract and present data to show learner's achievement over time. Discover how to make smart spending decisions to get the most impact from a limited budget.

Presenters:
Madalaine Pugliese

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: assessment
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
The 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. Budget conscious devices and materials that are fundamental to testing various functions of communication and AAC utilization will be identified and discussed. A chart sharing the basic components of a set of devices and materials for AAC assessment will be shared. Participants will learn about a variety of resources and strategies for working better, smarter and faster.

Presenters:
Celeste Helling
Elizabeth (Libby) Rush

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Category: assessment
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Category: assessment
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Girls with Rett Syndrome face a variety of challenges to communication and learning. Severe apraxia makes it difficult for these girls to move their bodies according to their intents. Neurologically driven hand wringing and mouthing stereotypes often make these children appear severely cognitively disabled, which is often not the case. Reaching these children's underlying cognitive abilities is quite challenging. Communication and learning strategies must be flexible and custom designed to take advantage of the girls' strengths and allow for apraxic motor processing. This presentation will share creative ideas and practical strategies for enabling communication, social interaction, play and literacy learning for these girls.

Presenters:
Linda Burkhart
Susan Norwell

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
In this lecture/hands-on session, we will explore a "typical" day for students who attend the Intensive Skills Centers (ISC) in the Beaverton School District. We will show materials, such as the Assistive Technology First Aid Kit, a toolbox every classroom should have. This kit contains everyday materials that help make communication/academics accessible to our students. We will share videos of how we have successfully been able to provide opportunities across the day for our students to not only request, but initiate a wide range of other communicative functions, such as answering, commenting, asking questions, stating opinions and asserting independence. Finally, we will share ideas and materials that have helped the teams provide those precious opportunities for their students. Participants will get a chance to try some of the strategies and tools we have found to be helpful during several role plays.

Presenters:
Debbie Carrillo
Freda Caufield

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
When used correctly, visual strategies can be a powerful tool in helping learners understand directions, expectations, schedules and more. These strategies range from simple to complex in structure. A variety of different tools can be used to help parents and professionals create these visual supports for their learners. This presentation will introduce participants to seven different board making tools, including Boardmaker Plus 6.0, Overboard, PhotoSyms, TheraSimplicity, Picture It, Picture This, and Microsoft Word. Participants will get an extensive overview of each tool and leave with a comparison chart comparing the features of each tool.

Presenters:
Bridget Gilormini
Tenley McDonald

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
This session provides an overview of a hospital-based program developed to provide low tech, inexpensive, yet functional, augmentative communication tools for patients who are communicatively vulnerable. This includes patients who have compromised speech, hearing, vision, and those who are limited because of foreign language barriers. Specifics will be discussed about toolkits used by nursing staff and about an evaluation toolkit for SLPs. A list of resources will be shared to enable others to develop/enhance use of AAC in health care settings. Case studies, illustrating patient benefits, as well as a review of research in the field/JCAHO standards, will also be discussed.

Presenters:
Debby McBride

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: demonstration company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Learn about Proloquo2Go for iPhone and iPod touch, which provides a revolutionary new AAC solution offering power and flexibility in the palm of your hand. Combining the power and features of larger devices with the ease of use and affordability of the iPod, Proloquo2Go gives access to powerful AAC to many people who previously had to rely on low tech or cumbersome solutions.

Presenters:
David Niemeijer
Samuel Sennott

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: hands-on workshop (no computers) company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Beginner

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: hands-on workshop (no computers) company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Do you want to quickly become proficient in using and customizing Proloquo2Go, an innovative new AAC platform on the iPhone and iPod touch? Whether you have experience with Proloquo2Go or not, this hands-on lab workshop will help you develop a high level of proficiency by providing modeling, guided practice and independent practice with feedback in three key domains: getting a user started and customizing Proloquo2Go for a range of users; creating novel vocabulary sets; and learning how to train others to use, customize and create using Proloquo2Go.

Presenters:
David Niemeijer
Samuel Sennott

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
In this session, participants will discuss the parallel nature of the goals for aphasia and AAC treatments. This session will highlight AAC strategies to improve the abilities of individuals with aphasia and review the current research regarding AAC and aphasia. Participants will explore what traditional and needs assessment batteries reveal about AAC skills and how to expand an assessment to include a more specific AAC-aphasia assessment protocol. Participants will leave with informal assessment tools and resources.

Presenters:
Bryan Gold

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Aided language stimulation is a process of modeling augmentative communication. It makes logical sense and 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. Then, the second part will include a lively demonstration of some of the most practical and innovative ways to bring aided language stimulation into practice. Some of the technology integration demonstrated will be netbooks, peer to peer networking, video-based modeling and projection technologies.

Presenters:
Samuel Sennott

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
The ACES module and toolkit list will provide participants with forms and outlines to help them navigate through the complex process of completing AAC evaluations while using a simplified toolkit. Different examples will be given to demonstrate ways to implement this process with a wide range of individuals with the simplest to the most complex communication needs. The professionals will then be able to better organize their information, learn how to use a toolkit and use this systematized method to complete AAC evaluations with ease and efficiency. After matching the communicator with the best device option available, the possibilities of communication are wide open, and the individual with complex communication needs is the benefactor of this comprehensive and systematized approach to AAC evaluations.

Presenters:
Debby McBride

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
This session will provide participants with instructional strategies for students with complex communication needs who are transitioning or becoming conventional readers. Highlights will include an integrated instruction method that teaches AAC and literacy skills simultaneously. Participants will learn strategies on how to teach core words, spelling, knowledge of phonics, and important linguistic skills for successful communication across environments. Anyone interested in teaching literacy and communication skills to individuals who use augmentative communication will be interested in these support strategies and how they can use it to design other programs for this population.

Presenters:
Pati King DeBaun

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
Highest performance communication leads to the best life experience. AAC evidence-based clinical practice requires the measurement of communication performance. Automated tools have been developed to support the collection and analysis of language samples of communication generated using any speech-output AAC system. This session will begin with a review of the basics of AAC evidence-based practice, including the available tools. Then, an individual who uses AAC will interact with the audience, during which time a language sample will be collected. Finally, the language sample will be analyzed and the AAC Performance Report for that individual will be generated and reviewed.

Presenters:
Robin Hurd

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Advanced

Description:
This presentation is geared towards clinicians who work with people with multiple physical disabilities. It will look at how these disabilities impact the client's ability to access an AAC device. The primary goal will be to demonstrate examples of how devices can be programmed to maximize the efficiency of a client who uses alternate access methods. The session will conclude with some case studies of specific users and their language systems. Attendees will be asked for thoughts and suggestions for each case study and will leave with a set of strategies to use when designing AAC systems for their clients.

Presenters:
Dawn Rainey

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Developing and implementing effective augmentative communication strategies for children with complex communication needs can be an overwhelming task. It is imperative to approach planning based on sound theoretical frameworks, as well as innovative applications of theory into practice. This session will focus on developing intervention strategies that can be used to support language comprehension, development and use for children with complex communication needs who rely on augmentative communication methods. Innovative techniques that focus on scaffolding the learning environment to create communication opportunities that support augmentative communication users will be presented.

Presenters:
Celeste Helling

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
The high tech craze has unfortunately influenced decision making in AAC services. People have equated high tech to being the best tech for all. Though technologically advanced communication devices have been beneficial to many persons, they are not the panacea for all individuals needing AAC. Furthermore, lite tech has been viewed as so simple that little consideration has been given to the complexity of identifying and implementing its use. This session will address considerations in selection and utilization of lite tech AAC systems and investigate over 300 AAC devices costing under $1500. Receive a CD with a comprehensive chart reviewing hundreds of lite tech AAC devices and guidelines for using many of those devices.

Presenters:
Elizabeth (Libby) Rush

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
As an augmentative communicator who has used everything from low tech solutions to the newest PRC ECO-14 device with WordPower, hear about one person's struggles and successes in learning to communicate in an oral speaking world. This session will open eyes as to what it takes to be a communication partner with an augmentative communicator who has lots to say. Learn about pragmatic considerations and therapy ideas to support augmentative communicators develop into equal communication partners.

Presenters:
BJ Gallagher
Jennifer Shook

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Too often, children with significant disabilities are not provided with ample opportunities nor access to technology because of the child's appearance or behaviors. This session will discuss early lite tech methods of communication for these students. Participants will understand how to develop social, linguistic and literacy skills for students, even at the earliest cognitive levels. Highlights of this session will include case study examples, including video samples and a wealth full of strategies that can be used in a variety of settings.

Presenters:
Pati King DeBaun

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
This presentation will focus on transitioning children from using activity- or semantic-based page sets, to the Gateway page sets designed for language learning. Participants will learn how to use Gateway to increase semantic and syntactic development, as well as how to increase participation and socialization. Strategies will be presented on how to teach children the Gateway system through methods such as aided language modeling and structured practice. Data from case study research will be presented to support strategies, along with video demonstration of the techniques. Presenters will share personal experiences and video clips throughout the presentation.

Presenters:
Trina Becker
Beth Leggitt

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
This workshop is a must for attendees looking for fun and functional activities that also reinforce literacy development and communication competence. The activities demonstrated will incorporate Adaptivation's technology, including both voice output and environmental control devices. We will show how to turn a central theme into multiple activities that can be used throughout the day. Attendees will leave with many ideas. With fall being considered the height of the holiday season (i.e., Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.), the timing of this workshop could not be more perfect!

Presenters:
Lori Dahlquist
Amy Koch

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
This session will address improving functional communication using AAC through family routines. We will explore how the right system can bridge the gap between intentions and implementation of AAC systems when the therapist is not present. We will present methods for developing AAC systems to meet the needs of each family in the settings most important in their lives. Tailoring AAC systems to enhance caregiver involvement and improve consistency of implementation will be demonstrated to result in more positive outcomes. AAC systems we will discuss include low tech aids, such as routine books, mid-range devices, such as 7-Level Communicator, and high tech devices, including the EyeMax and Vantage.

Presenters:
Elizabeth Terwilliger

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: hands-on workshop (no computers) company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
The Lingraphica is a speech generating device designed for adults with aphasia. This session provides a demonstration and hands-on training on SmallTalk, the new hand-held mobile accessory, which runs on an iPod touch and iPhone.

Presenters:
Andrew Gomory

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Come learn MyTalk. MyTalk authors bring AAC to life. Learn how MyTalk is as limitless as your creativity. See how compelling, personal content triggers curiosity, fascination, engagement, learning and expression. A walk through MyTalk will demonstrate iPhone authoring, Web authoring on My Workspace, image/audio sourcing, MyTalk Public and Private Libraries, Web or iPhone board creation, simple board and file management, sync'ing and the safety of Web storage, multi-user education version, usage examples, including classroom, home and community, the coolness factor and the educational benefits of functionality convergence, on-the-fly programming, best practices forum, multiple user groups and input, and file movement analytics. Learn and see how ease of use fosters connection and growth.

Presenters:
F.J. "Bick" Pratt

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
Selecting the appropriate augmentative communication (AAC) device can be overwhelming. There are so many devices and so many features, how does one make a decision? This session will provide charts and online clinical tools and resources to assist in your decision-making process. Examples and case studies for researching the simplest to most complex communication tools/devices will be provided. Participants will leave with access to charts and online clinical tools that can immediately be used in their own device research.

Presenters:
Debby McBride

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
We did it! Out and About has been supporting community outings in the Phoenix area for over 10 years, with expected growing pains and learning curves! We have evolved over time, and continue to grow and learn, now hosting three outings per month, with a wide range of activities and participants. We will share our mission statements and our tips and tricks for keeping community groups going during lean times, while focusing on fun, friendship and learning and using language and AAC devices. We will share ideas for funding, planning, communicating and more. Come learn from our mistakes and successes!

Presenters:
Kim Daswick
Krista Howard
Deanna Kempka Wagner
Caroline Ramsey Musselwhite

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Children who face severe physical and multiple challenges, who will eventually use lite tech or high tech scanning for communication, need to learn language in the same format that they will be using expressively. It is now clearly evident that using a partner-assisted scanning communication system, receptively, to talk to the child in context, is critical for the child to develop the cognitive framework for how such a system could be used expressively. How do you know the child is ready to move to expressive communication? How can you facilitate initiation and expression of intents? This session will explore the process of moving from receptive language to expressive language, using partner-assisted scanning communication.

Presenters:
Linda Burkhart
Molly Riggs

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Many individuals who use AAC devices have difficulty using the Internet because of reading, cognitive, visual or motor disabilities. Point-and-Chat software can help overcome these issues. The software combines the customizable input screens of Saltillo's DesktopChat, patented screen reading technology from Point-and-Read, and a newly integrated interface for talking e-mail and talking Instant Messaging. Point-and-Chat leverages an AAC user's existing communications skills with special features for people with multiple disabilities. Results from a usability study funded by the National Center for Technology Innovation will be presented. Attendees will learn how to use key Point-and-Chat features.

Presenters:
Ben Slotznick

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Typical children can use a single word to express many intents because they add gestures, facial expressions and intonation to their voices. Children who are nonverbal and face severe physical and multiple challenges have little means to clarify intent through these methods. As a result, communicating a single word may be interpreted with many possible intents. Gayle Porter (Melbourne, Australia) has developed a system of vocabulary organization that addresses this problem by offering the intent before the detail of a single word. Come learn about the power of Pragmatically Organized Dynamic Displays (PODD) for lite tech and high tech applications.

Presenters:
Linda Burkhart
Molly Riggs

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
In this session participants will be introduced to a range of speech-language strategies designed to meet communication, language and learning needs of students with autism who benefit from lite technology to high technology AAC. Through success stories, examples and demonstration using DynaVox Mayer-Johnson products, participants will identify strategies and features designed to promote communication as a tool for management of behavior, self-regulation and social engagement.

Presenters:
Bryan Gold

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Implementing tangible symbols with beginning AAC communicators (those with less than 50 word vocabularies) can be a challenge. Communicative intent and interaction must be established and are best achieved through multimodal approaches within naturalistic environments. This session will address a systematic approach to learning, practicing and utilizing a continuum of communication symbols and behaviors. Learn about the four components that must be identified for each individual before implementation of a tangible symbol system. Explore strategies to aid AAC users in transitioning to the most abstract symbol type possible. Gain insight into the characteristics of potential tangible symbol users, the continuum of tangible symbols and methods for implementation of functional communication systems.

Presenters:
Elizabeth (Libby) Rush

Date: Thu, Oct 15, 2009 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
Saltillo, in partnership with News-2-You, is now providing free current events communication pages to be used on the ChatBox 40, ChatPC 4, ChatPC Silk and the new ALT-Chat. The weekly newspapers from News-2-You improve communication through fun and educational activities for individuals of all ages and abilities. Subscribers of News-2-You will find that the individual can participate in all of these activities using these pre-made pages on a Saltillo communication device, as well as participate in conversations with peers and family on the latest topics. Come see how much fun communication can be with Saltillo and News-2-You!

Presenters:
Elisa Sarosi

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
There are many children and adults who could benefit from augmentative and alternate communication devices, but many of these individuals have additional impairments that make direct selection challenging, if not impossible. These people require an alternative access method. Scanning can be a valid alternative to direct selection, but before you choose a communication device with scanning capabilities, certain important questions need to be considered. During this presentation, we will address these important questions and discuss Saltillo's many switches and scanning communication devices. Whether you need a simple static display device for a beginning scanner or a more advanced dynamic display device, Saltillo may have the device you are looking for. Come and see just how simple scanning with Saltillo can be!

Presenters:
Elisa Sarosi

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
This presentation will define aided language modeling (ALM) and explain how this multi-modality intervention strategy benefits AAC users, specifically those with autistic spectrum disorder. This strategy benefits both the emerging and established AAC user. Ideas for how to use ALM to increase language in areas such as joint attention, vocabulary, length of utterance and pragmatics will be demonstrated. Video examples will be provided on how ALM has been used to increase communication functions, such as commenting, asking and answering questions and initiating communication. Ideas for integration into group or classroom settings using functional activities will also be presented.

Presenters:
Trina Becker
Beth Bergstrom

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Still searching for ways to assure that your adolescent and adult AAC users participate in routines and daily activities that are age appropriate? Do you continue to look for age-suitable materials, activities, books and resources? Time to explore innovative strategies to support age appropriate communication environments for teens and young adults with complex communication needs. Examine rationale and criteria for selecting age appropriate topics, activities and materials. Learn how to shape up the four components of effective AAC service delivery, which include assessment, effective treatment, communication partners and physical environments. Participants will receive a CD with resources to aid in person centered, age-appropriate communication services.

Presenters:
Elizabeth (Libby) Rush

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: PC hands-on workshop company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Intermediate

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: PC hands-on workshop company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
People seek to address a wide variety of needs and abilities in the areas of literacy, vocabulary, physical access and interests through AAC. Some need or want simple communication pages, while others want access to a full array of modern day communication tools, such as making cell calls, doing e-mail, surfing the Internet, text messaging and so on. Some want to listen to music, look at family pictures or play games. Still others want to control their bed, TV, lights, door, etc. Some people use direct selection techniques, such as pointing or eye gaze, while others use scanning to access these features. People's varied needs and interests will be discussed and examples of newly developed page sets that meet those needs will be shown in this session.

Presenters:
Keith Woodbury

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: lecture

Subject Level: Intermediate
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
The focus of Environmental Communication Teaching (ECT) training is functional communication in natural environments. ECT training has two goals. The primary goal is to facilitate an increase of AAC use in target students. The secondary goal is to give communication facilitating adults (teachers, SLPs, parents, paraeducators and others) strategies for promoting initiation of communication through systematic planning of activities and arranging the environments. The full ECT training is a five-day intensive, school year process. The presenters of this session will share their student case studies through communication scripts and video clips of student progress through the 2008-09 school year. The case studies will range from early elementary aged students to high schoolers. AAC devices utilized will range from eyegaze boards to high tech systems.

Presenters:
Beth Coletta
Kelly Fonner
Andrina Hamil
Bonnie Jensen DuBois
Kenja Johnson
Debra Stanley

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: N/A

Description:
In researching the history of electronic augmentative alternative communication (AAC) development, I found that my career in AAC started near the beginning of the boom in the development of voice output AAC devices. This presentation will provide a history of AAC device development as told by someone who has experienced a great deal of this history.

Presenters:
Jeri Hoffman

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: PC hands-on workshop company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Intermediate

Date: Fri, Oct 16, 2009 from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: PC hands-on workshop company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: All
Computer Level: Intermediate

Description:
Tobii Communicator is a powerful software program for creating augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) pages. These pages can be used on a variety of AAC systems. This hands-on lab will focus on developing a variety of communication page sets for the home or classroom setting. Participants will learn basic editing functions within Tobii Communicator and learn to create the following page sets: a communication page involving a home or classroom activity, a visual scene display, a communication page, and an educational game. Participants will leave with complimentary demo copies of Tobii Communicator, 70 plus sample page sets and, if they bring a thumb drive, the page sets created during the lab.

Presenters:
Keith Woodbury

Date: Sat, Oct 17, 2009 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Category: augmentative communication
Format: company-affiliated demonstration

Subject Level: Beginner
Computer Level: Beginner

Description:
Does the thought of conducting in-services or workshops overwhelm you? If so, let Adaptivation help. We have a workshop kit that includes several lite tech products, applications and ideas that can be used in training sessions or workshops. If you are looking for ideas or want to learn more about Adaptivation's products, this is the session for you!

Presenters:
Lori Dahlquist
Amy Koch