Over 200 Presentation and Hands-On Lab Hours
Wednesday through Friday, October 9-11, 2013
Over 200 presentation and hands-on lab hours that describe and/or demonstrate successful applications of assistive technology for persons with disabilities will be held during the three days of the conference.
See list of conference presenters.
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technology integration
10/11/2013
12:30pm-1:30pm
Accessibility and the Common Core
Date:
Fri, Oct 11, 2013
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Atrium 1
Category: technology integration
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
The Common Core has extensive technology components. Students with special education needs will need to be prepared to both master the standards and demonstrate their mastery through technology-based assessment. How will this impact students using low- or no-tech assistive technology? This session will focus on the actual technology components of the new standards and how educators can help students succeed.
Presenters:
Amanda Peters
10/11/2013
12:30pm-1:30pm
Blended Instruction: How One Teacher Utilizes Technology to Enhance Hands-On Curriculum
Date:
Fri, Oct 11, 2013
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Atrium 8
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
As special educators, we know how technology can enhance the performance capabilities of our students, facilitate participation in instructional activities and improve overall success rates in the classroom and beyond. The range in which many technologies are available to schools may vary, so this session will discuss several solutions and how they can act as a supplement to a hands-on transition curriculum, serving students at ALL levels. The SmartBoard, iPad and video modeling can all transform the curriculum itself into a flexible, interactive, digital instruction!
Presenters:
Wendy Sherman
10/09/2013
8am-9am
Chew the PHAT: Procedures and How-Tos in Assistive Technology
Date:
Wed, Oct 09, 2013
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Atrium 7
Category: technology integration
Format: networking session / discussion
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
Come learn ways to develop and grow your district's assistive technology team while building a culture of Universal Design for Learning to meet the needs of all students. We will show how we evolved from providing assistive technology services on a reactive basis to becoming PROACTIVE by developing progressive policies and procedures. This approach meets the needs of every learner while fostering relationships between special and general education using instructional technology. We will discuss new and innovative ways to raise awareness of assistive technology by promoting creative learning environments, thoughtful consideration in every IEP meeting and collaborative progress monitoring. This information is applicable for all stages of team development even if you are a team of one!
Presenters:
Christopher Bugaj
Sally Norton Darr
10/11/2013
12:30pm-1:30pm
Co:Writer 6 and Write:OutLoud
Date:
Fri, Oct 11, 2013
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Atrium 7
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Producing illegible written work can affect many people's daily lives in multiple ways. When students have flexible access to the Solo 6 programs, Co:Writer and Write:Outloud, they are provided with tools that have phonetic word prediction and text-to-speech options that assist with reducing poor letter formation, spacing, sizing, alignment, spelling and poor grammar errors. Our presentation will walk you through how these programs address specific student needs to produce legible and efficient written work. Come and learn about these programs, some features, how-tos, tips and tricks and how we have implemented these programs in our schools.
Presenters:
Cassie Friemann
Katie Juaire
10/10/2013
11am-12pm
Diving Beneath the Surface: A Closer Look at Tablets, Apps and Accessibility
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
11:00 am -
12:00 pm
Location: Atrium 7
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Before you finish reading this paragraph, eight more apps will be released to the public. As the economy recovers and mobile technology solutions evolve, many more schools are implementing the bring your own technology (BYOT) model to enhance educational success for their students. AT professionals are considered the experts when it comes to these devices and apps and how these solutions can assist students with disabilities. There are significant differences among the tablets and the apps that can be used on them. Participants will explore the Tools for Life AppFinder, various tablets, associated accessibility features and which apps are most helpful so that students will achieve academic success.
Presenters:
Carolyn Phillips
Martha E. Rust
10/10/2013
9:30am-12pm
Getting It Done: Using the iPad as a Classroom Productivity Tool (Two Block Session)
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
9:30 am -
12:00 pm
Location: Atrium 4
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
In this presentation, the focus will be on classroom productivity and functional academic independence. Participants will learn about the iPad and various apps and how to effectively integrate their use in the classroom environment. Emphasis will be given on how to complete worksheets, journals and other classroom assignments. First-hand demonstration of many apps will be done, including iAnnotate, JotNot Scanner Pro, myMemoir, iMovie, Book Creator, Puppet Pals, Abilipad and many more. Using apps in conjunction with one another will also be highlighted. The overall focus of this presentation is how to modify work, complete work and then share work using the iPad.
Presenters:
Ona Allison
Nicole Weckherlin
10/09/2013
8am-9am
Getting Students On Board: A Student-Lead Model of AT Integration
Date:
Wed, Oct 09, 2013
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Plaza 2
Category: technology integration
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
While there are a number of factors that promote successful AT implementation, training staff, families and the student to successfully use AT continues to be an issue. In particular, ensuring that students understand the purpose of AT, know how to use AT and develop ownership in their AT use are critical in preventing AT abandonment. In contrast to models emphasizing teacher training, this presentation provides an overview of a student-lead, peer-driven and socially promoted model of technology implementation that has been used with middle school students. Preliminary data will be shared, as well as lessons learned while implementing the model.
Presenters:
Nora Bardi
Brian Wojcik
10/09/2013
3:30pm-4:30pm
Hidden Potential: Using Everyday Technology in the Special Education Classroom
Date:
Wed, Oct 09, 2013
from
3:30 pm -
4:30 pm
Location: Atrium 1
Category: technology integration
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Mainstream technology is literally everywhere these days. These devices are a game changer for many students, but especially for students with disabilities. Learn how to harness the power of devices, like the iPad and SmartBoard, for students with special needs. Participants will discover ways to support IEP goals, increase student trials and complete a variety of special education specific tasks, like visual schedules, using mainstream technology. This session will also increase attendees' knowledge of software and apps that can be used successfully with students with disabilities.
Presenters:
Andrea Brown
10/11/2013
8am-9am
iLOVE Writing: Using the iPad to Support Struggling Writers
Date:
Fri, Oct 11, 2013
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Atrium 4
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Are you working with students who struggle with the process of writing? Does their spelling impact the readability of their work? iPads are quickly changing the landscape of the 21st century classroom and becoming an invaluable tool to students who learn differently. This session will demonstrate and discuss a variety of apps that can support struggling writers through the writing process, from organization through editing. We will begin by exploring graphic organization apps that can get students "ready to write." We will then explore a variety of apps that can support students with their writing, spelling and editing. Finally, we will share implementation strategies through case examples. Leave with the ideas and apps you need to hear your students say "iLOVE to write!"
Presenters:
Kelly Charlebois
10/10/2013
3:30pm-4:30pm
Infographics: More Than Just Graphic Organizers
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
3:30 pm -
4:30 pm
Location: Atrium 8
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
The Common Core State Standard lays out a vision of what it means to be a literate person in the 21st century. That includes becoming a critical evaluator of real world information. From daily weather maps and census data to the water cycle and the world's economy, infographics are everywhere. Learn what they are, how to use them and how to easily create them with free/low-cost, accessible online applications.
Presenters:
Marian Birdsall
10/10/2013
8am-9am
Integration Same Access with Different Activity: Can Talking (AAC Use), Writing (Computer Access) and Driving (Powered Mobility) Really Work Together?
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Plaza 2
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Advanced
Computer Level:
Advanced
Description:
Powered chairs, AAC devices and computers have all changed in their electronics. The configurations of chairs and how they work is not identical and is not readily managed independently by all students. The configurations, the programmability of the electronics and how they are managed will be shared in this session. Children with assistive technology should be independent in its management, as well as its use. We must plan for this when we are obtaining the equipment and we must become much more familiar with the true integration of systems so that as children learn and grow with their systems, they can manage them without adult help.
Presenters:
Karen Kangas
Lisa Rotelli
10/10/2013
12:30pm-1:30pm
iPad in the Classroom
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Plaza 1
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
How do teams in a small school setting use the iPad to meet children's ever-changing needs? How do they work with all students to make them as successful as they can with the use of the iPad? This session will discuss what iPad apps have worked in the primary setting, either at home or in classrooms and in what age group they have been successful. How and what tools can be accessed to assist in daily scheduling (what's on today chore cards), social stories (now what, behavior), behavior management (Dojo, hat), lunchroom (timers, choices), observations (camera, video, screen shots), data collection (tallypad, tallyit) and testing a child (reading, writing and math apps to use as skill-based assessments along with screen shots).
Presenters:
Keri Schliesman
10/10/2013
11am-12pm
iPhoneography: Photography for All
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
11:00 am -
12:00 pm
Location: Plaza 6 iPad Lab
Category: technology integration
Format: iPad hands-on workshop
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
In this session, participants will learn how to use their iPads and other iOS devices to take high quality photos that can be imported as symbols in communication apps, used to create social stories and more. The presenters will also share ideas for how to incorporate photography into learning activities across the curriculum, including science, math and language arts lessons. For students with disabilities, we will demonstrate a number of photography apps that support accessibility features and promote self-expression and the development of a personal voice for all students through photography. Photos from the presenters' own collections will be shown throughout the session for inspiration.
Presenters:
Mark Coppin
Mark Dohn
Luis Perez
10/10/2013
2pm-3pm
It's Not All About the Apps
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
2:00 pm -
3:00 pm
Location: Plaza 2
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
Are you getting caught up in the app frenzy? Is your head spinning from all the apps that are out there and you're just not sure which ones will be the perfect match for students? The truth is, what's really important is neither the apps nor the iPad itself. The main focus for using any technology, including the iPad, should be the student outcomes. We'll discuss how the iPad can support the three C's consumption, curation and creativity. Come and learn how to pinpoint the goal of your lesson and then determine which app will help your students meet this goal. Discover how to do more with less, make the best use of what you already have and spend as little money as possible doing it.
Presenters:
Pam Guio
Mary Ann McGinn
10/11/2013
11am-12pm
Making It Happen: Effective Strategies for Embedding Assistive Technology into Learning Tasks
Date:
Fri, Oct 11, 2013
from
11:00 am -
12:00 pm
Location: Edina
Category: technology integration
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
Integrating technology into diverse learning environments is tough. In this presentation, I will discuss current research on effective strategies for choosing technology tools and integrating these tools into common learning tasks. I will discuss the power of collaboration through communities of practice. Finally, I will share matrices that I have developed for teachers of diverse learning environments that align common learning tasks with available technology tools, such as apps, learning websites, online authoring tools and desktop applications. The matrices will be available to participants, both electronically and in print, in order to facilitate immediate integration of new resources with students.
Presenters:
Jennifer Courduff
10/10/2013
12:30pm-1:30pm
Man Seeking Chocolate: Using Assistive Technology to Write A Research Report
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Edina
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Working on a research report can be challenging for any student, but it can be particularly daunting for students diagnosed with language-based learning differences. Fortunately, there is an array of assistive technology that can help these students through the entire process. This presentation will walk through the steps of writing a research report, making stops along the way to describe how various technologies can be applied to specific tasks, such as finding appropriate sources, taking and organizing notes, citing sources and editing the initial draft. The topic for the sample research report will be chocolate.
Presenters:
Jamie Martin
10/09/2013
2pm-3pm
Mobile Device Management: Keeping Track of iPads Without Losing Your Mind
Date:
Wed, Oct 09, 2013
from
2:00 pm -
3:00 pm
Location: Atrium 6
Category: technology integration
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
Advanced
Computer Level:
Advanced
Description:
Wondering how to manage multiple iPads without losing your mind in the process? It's not a task for the faint of heart. This informative session will present you with one district's process for deploying over 200 iPads that are being individually configured to meet students' needs as assistive technology devices for both communication and academics. Various models of deployment and device/app management will be presented, and open conversation regarding best practice models will be welcome.
Presenters:
Lesley McGilligan
Bret Siegel
10/10/2013
3:30pm-4:30pm
Ready, Set, Go: Building an iCan Attitude for iPad Integration
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
3:30 pm -
4:30 pm
Location: Plaza 5
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
What free and low cost apps can create real tech integration for our staff and students? We will show you how built-in iPad apps can be used to their fullest potential. With a focus on features that are built into the iPad, plus approximately 10 additional inexpensive applications, we will demonstrate integrating technology for many of the social, academic and cognitive goals. Our team will provide specific examples of the process for selecting the apps and demonstrate how they span cognitive and grade levels. Come away with a variety of tools, such as a needs assessment form, rubrics for educational app selection and outcome measurement tools.
Presenters:
Dale Gardner Fox
Allegra Osborne
Jeanne Tuthill
10/10/2013
12:30pm-1:30pm
Shaking Up Your Snow Globe!
Date:
Thu, Oct 10, 2013
from
12:30 pm -
1:30 pm
Location: Atrium 4
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Intermediate
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Think you've seen it all? Look again! How does it all connect? This session will address new and cutting edge technologies that have emerged for the iPad, Web 2.0, computer and device technologies, with a focus on how they can interconnect with each other to allow for innovation in access, communication and learning tools for both educators and students. Come into my sandbox and see what new "toys" - hardware, software and apps - I've found for connecting the dots of engagement, access and exploration, and solutions for easy distribution of materials between platforms! Tools for iPads and Androids thread the connections between apps to create new possibilities and more. From Bluetooth devices to "pushing" technologies, learn how to create a truly connected and engaging learning environment.
Presenters:
Dan Herlihy
10/09/2013
8am-9am
So Many Schools So Little Time: Sharing Strategies for Large-Scale Technology Implementation
Date:
Wed, Oct 09, 2013
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Atrium 8
Category: technology integration
Format: lecture
Subject Level:
All
Computer Level:
N/A
Description:
Your district has considered the students, needs for assistive technology, identified the appropriate tools and acquired them. Now is when the real work begins: Using it! Is there a shared vision? How about a collaborative plan? Have you identified the key members of your implementation team? What are you goals? Who is installing and when? What is your strategy for ongoing professional learning? What tools and strategies are you using to keep that initial excitement and momentum going? In this session, we will share our own experiences, but more importantly, we will facilitate an open discussion that will allow participants to share tips, strategies and tools for successful technology integration.
Presenters:
Jennifer Edge Savage
Scott Marfilius
10/09/2013
8am-9am
The iPad: Everything You Wish Someone Would Have Told You
Date:
Wed, Oct 09, 2013
from
8:00 am -
9:00 am
Location: Atrium 6
Category: technology integration
Format: demonstration
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Beginner
Description:
If you have purchased an iPad recently or just jumped into using the iPad without training, this session is for you. Pati's must-know tips and tricks before you start using the iPad with your child or students will be shared. Beyond turning on the iPad, this session is specific to using the iPad efficiently while serving students. We'll discuss how to multi-task, select apps, set up for accessibility creatively, use resources from your computer, set up the iPad with groups and much more. Participants will walk away with confidence that their next iPad session will be a productive and more creative experience. Many of the tips and tricks are less than five minute solutions!
Presenters:
Pati King DeBaun
10/11/2013
9:30am-10:30am
The Windows 8 Tablet: The Best of Both Worlds
Date:
Fri, Oct 11, 2013
from
9:30 am -
10:30 am
Location: Atrium 2
Category: technology integration
Format: company-affiliated demonstration
Subject Level:
Beginner
Computer Level:
Intermediate
Description:
Tablets have revolutionized the world of assistive technology. Up until now, the sacrifice for portability and cost meant giving up the full functionality of desktop software in exchange for less functional apps. The Windows 8 tablet gives you the best of both worlds by providing the portability of a tablet with the computing power of a desktop. In this session, the presenter will explain the different types of Windows tablets and how easy and cost effective it is to use your current desktop switch interface to connect switches. The second part of the presentation will focus on the use of the Windows 8 tablet's camera and microphone to customize software to individual students.
Presenters:
Elliot Pludwinski
What participants have said
One benefit of a conference environment is the opportunity to experience, in person, the tools we often just read about.
~Technology Specialist
This conference gave me the opportunity to learn and grow in my weakest areas and have leading experts in the field as my instructors.
~AT Consultant
My attendance at the 2012 Closing The Gap Conference was not only an inspirational and motivating experience for myself, but will be a game changer for those students and staff members I serve.
~AT Consultant
