25 Preconference Workshops

Description:
Developing successful literacy and communication instruction for students with significant disabilities, including deaf-blindness, is a challenging feat. The Center for Literacy and Disability Studies at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, NC has worked with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction to develop model demonstration classrooms that provide effective instruction for this population. This workshop will describe the emergent literacy activities being used and the methods of student progress monitoring. Case studies, classroom videos, assistive technology and student writing samples will be shown, supported by small group activities. Participants will receive a CD full of great activities and resources.

Presenters:
Gretchen Hanser, Ph.D., is the Associate Director of School-Aged Services, Center for Literacy and Disability Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC and Toy Dills Booth, M.Ed., NBCT, is a Special Educator, The North Shelby School, Shelby, NC.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
What is Web 2.0 and how will these tools assist me as a special educator or assistive technology provider? Web 2.0 is all about communication, collaboration and creation of information. Throughout this beginner hands-on workshop, we will explore Web-based tools for communication and collaboration, including nings, wiki's, blogs, social bookmarking tools and micro-social networking (Twitter). Specific tools will include assistive technology ning, Twitter, pbwiki, voice thread, wordle, webspiration, interactive learning objects, social bookmarking, flowgrams, video sharing sites and free educational applications for the iPod. This workshop will provide hands-on exploration and instruction on how to use these free Web 2.0 tools for the assistive technology professional. (Hands-on activities will be conducted on both PC and Macintosh computers — one computer for every one participant; or, participants are welcome to bring their own laptop with Web browser and wireless networking card.)

Presenters:
Paula Walser, M.S., CCC-SLP, is the Director of E-Learning, CESA 6, Oshkosh, WI.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
This workshop will present nontraditional assessment strategies appropriate for the development of communication and successful AT applications in individuals having severe multiple differences, developmental differences and/or autism. Tools that can be used to identify content, symbol systems, access, switch and voca appropriate for individuals with significant sensory-motor differences will be presented. Information is relevant to the needs of those individuals who are currently unable to communicate their wants and needs spontaneously in their environment, regardless of age or severity of physical and/or cognitive differences. Techniques incorporate current research in the areas of communication, education and sensory integration. There is a $50 materials fee (program manual) in addition to the cost of the workshop. (Note: Although not mandatory, it is strongly recommended that this Assessment workshop be followed up with Every Move Counts, Clicks and Chats Implementation Strategies [on Wednesday] to better understand and apply the Every Move Counts philosophy.)

Presenters:
Jane Korsten, M.A., is a Speech Language Pathologist, EMC, Inc., Leawood, KS; Terry Foss, M.Ed., is an AT Resource Facilitator, Lee's Summit, MO; and Lisa Berry, OTR/L, is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Blue Valley School District, Lenexa, KS.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Children who face severe or profound physical, complex communication, and multiple challenges, such as cerebral palsy, rett syndrome or traumatic brain injury, often struggle with trying to juggle the challenges of motor coordination, sensory processing, communication, language, vision and cognition needed to effectively communicate what they are thinking. For many of these children, direct access, using their hands to operate a communication device, is not an effective strategy. Where do you start? How do you tap into the child's communicative intent? How do you develop language skills so that children can begin to communicate what they are thinking? How do you provide a comprehensive adapted communication and learning environment for children who face such significant challenges? This workshop will demonstrate the use of a variety of light tech partner-assisted communication books and strategies that can help give a child a means of interactive communication. Organization of vocabulary by pragmatic intent, (PODD) based upon the work of Gayle Porter (Melbourne, Australia), will be discussed. Strategies for children who have cortical visual impairment in addition to other multiple challenges will also be shared.

Presenters:
Linda J. Burkhart, B.S., is a Special Educator/Augmentative Communication Specialist/Technology Integration Specialist in private practice, Eldersburg, MD and Dale Gardner Fox, M.S., RPT, is an Assistive Technology Consultant, Hampshire Educational Collaborative, CCATT, Northampton, MA.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Have you ever worked with a child who is communicating below his/her potential because someone underestimated his/her abilities? Or perhaps all the pieces of the puzzle weren't put together during the assessment to provide a successful outcome? This intermediate workshop will address the critical interconnection and integration of assistive technology systems for individuals who have complex communication needs, significant physical and visual impairments, and rely on speech generating devices (SGDs). Assessment, positioning for access, access methods and specific strategies to build skills and independence will be addressed. Several case studies will be presented to illustrate these points. Participants will have the opportunity to bring their own case studies for group problem solving. Be ready for a fast moving and interactive session that will help you help your clients reach their communication and participation potential!

Presenters:
Michelle L. Lange, OTR, ABDA, ATP, is the President, Access to Independence, Arvada, CO and Jill Tullman, M.S., is a Speech Language Pathologist/AAC Specialist in private practice, Denver, CO.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
In this hands-on PC lab, participants will explore, set up and/or program four programmable switch interfaces: IntelliSwitch, StealthSwitch AT, SwitchHopper and the Crick Switch Interface. Each switch interface will be configured for Clicker 5, Classroom Suite and simple switch-activated software to compare programming strategies and features. Strategies will also include using the IntelliKeys keyboard as a switch interface for the selected software. Participants will decide appropriate key content for the switches and IntelliKeys and configure all hardware for each application. Guided practice will include step-by-step tutorials and a comparison sheet of interface features to guarantee success after the workshop. To generalize skills, participants will examine various switch activated software programs, determine required switch content and independently set up and program the interfaces of choice. The emphasis will be placed on how the interfaces will work with all the selected software and provide extensive tutorials, tips and techniques to guarantee success. (Hands-on activities will be conducted on PC computers — one computer for every two participants.)

Presenters:
Patti Rea, M.S., is a Technology Consultant, Adaptive Technology, Celina, TX and Kathleen Post, M.S., CCC-SLP, is the Manager, Assistive Technology Dept., Easter Seals DuPage and Fox Valley Region, Villa Park, IL.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Have you tried writing a grant proposal but gotten lost in the process? Or tried your hand at writing, and received "not funded" messages from funders? Grants offer our districts and organizations both financial support and flexibility to pursue needed technology initiatives. But, without a "formula" for both finding and compiling proposals, grant seeking and grant writing often feel like climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. This workshop has two foci: 1) finding grants that are doable and meet targeted needs; and 2) getting the grant proposal out the door. This session will give participants hands-on work on efficient grant seeking, as well as strategies for making good decisions after sorting through grant possibilities. An equal emphasis will be on smart strategies for getting the grant compiled and submitted. We will use free tools, and participants will leave with an online toolbox of resources, tools and strategies for their future grant work. (Hands-on activities will be conducted on Macintosh computers — one computer for every two participants; or, participants are welcome to bring their own laptop with Web browser and wireless networking card.)

Presenters:
Kathleen Gradel, Ed.D., is an Associate Professor, Language, Learning and Leadership Dept., College of Education, SUNY-Fredonia, Fredonia, NY.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
As schools seek to implement effective instructional interventions, technology (in the form of assistive technology, instructional technology and universal design for learning) may or may not be considered as a critical strategy. The purpose of this workshop is to explore templates, tools and strategies that can by used to measure and report on the effectiveness of technology for enhancing student achievement. Whether your school is implementing RTI, or your technology team is simply looking for evidence to enhance its decision making, this workshop will equip you with new tools and resources. We'll focus our attention on technology interventions in five areas (reading, writing, research and report writing, math, and study guides and quizzes/tests), grades 4 through post-secondary, that can be used with individual students or an entire class. At the end of the day, you'll have a new toolkit of technology interventions that have been designed to support the academic performance of struggling students and you'll have quantifiable evidence about the academic gains that result from their use. Note: Given the practical nature of this hands-on workshop, participants MUST bring their own laptop computer (Windows XP or Vista or Macintosh OS X) that includes a wireless card, a Web browser and Microsoft Word to the workshop.

Presenters:
Dave L. Edyburn, Ph.D., is a Professor, Dept. of Exceptional Education, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
This hands-on workshop is a must for anyone who supports, evaluates or works with AAC students. Emphasis will be placed on improving the quality of instruction available to all students who use alternative and augmentative communication (AAC), from inclusive situations to special education programs with a range of student ability levels. Participants will have hands-on experience using AAC devices. Practical strategies, teaching tips and instructional strategies will be highlighted. A variety of systems will be available for hands-on use throughout the day, including DynaVox, Blink Twice and Prentke Romich systems. Practical strategies for monitoring student progress, writing learning objectives and data collection ideas will be shared. In addition, light tech methods to support AAC during “the waiting period” and/or to determine potential use of more sophisticated systems will be addressed. Videotaped examples of students will be used to illustrate concepts and strategies. Each participant will receive a CD full of activities and a light tech AAC system, The Classroom Communication Flip Book. There is a $30 materials fee in addition to the cost of the workshop.

Presenters:
Pati King DeBaun, M.S., is a Speech Language Pathologist/Consultant specializing in assistive technology, Creative Communicating, Park City, UT; Karen Biggerstaff, M.S., is a Speech Language Pathologist/Consultant, San Antonio, TX; and Sue Alderfer, B.S., is a Speech Language Pathologist, Montgomery County, Perkiomenville, PA.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Some upgrades are minor tweaks from the previous version. Classroom Suite 4, however, takes a big leap in power and possibilities! Learn new hidden features, utilize new actions, and learn how to work with tables to create journals, adapted books or customized fact books for student report projects. Work with scriptable bins, timers, new math tools and more. Create labeling quizzes containing drop down selection lists, along with new student reporting features. An introduction into the new advanced scripting features will take you along the first steps of creating powerful, interactive activities. Imagine it, design it! Sample activities and templates will be provided. This is an intermediate to advanced level workshop. Participants must be proficient with the basics of Classroom Suite 4. (Hands-on activities will be conducted on both PC and Macintosh computers — one computer for every three participants.)

Presenters:
Dan Herlihy is an Assistive Technology/Technology Resource Specialist, Connective Technology Solutions, Inc., Hoosick, NY.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Teaching children with autism includes many modifications and accommodations to insure that the students are successful. These should take place from the second the bell rings in the morning until the moment you finally get to sit down and take a deep breath at the end of the day as the children leave. This workshop will teach you many "tricks" to meet the needs of children with autism all day. These will include physical setup, visual strategies, social skills strategies, academic modifications, and much more. I will share many "treats" as well, including free Web sites and free professional development modules to use with all staff working with children with autism and other low incidence disabilities. We will view many modifications and make some as well. You will go home with a bag full of new tricks to use in your classroom. There is a $35 materials fee in addition to the cost of the workshop.

Presenters:
Mo Buti, M.A., is the Chicago Public Schools Autism Coordinator, Chicago, IL.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Would your user of switch access technology like to blog? You bet! We all need writing motivation. This intermediate to advanced level workshop will address the issues that impact the user of switches and how to approach and support the writing process through this alternative access method. We will have a wide variety of hardware and software technologies to demonstrate advanced properties of switches and will describe how users of switches can gain efficient access to all writing environments through strategies of using word prediction, abbreviation expansion and other writing tool enhancements. This lecture and demonstration will cover strategies and technologies for scaffolding the written requirements for all students in the curricular areas. We will give examples of switch access to written work supports in language arts, literature, science, social studies and history topics, as well as writing for leisure, e-mail, blogging and on the job.

Presenters:
Kelly Fonner, M.S., is an Assistive/Educational Technology Consultant, Lake Geneva, WI and Scott Marfilius, M.S., is an Assistive/Educational Technology Consultant, Bayside, WI.

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
With brilliant graphics, great audio, a multi-touch interface and over 15,000 third party applications, the iPhone and iPod touch offer a wealth of possibilities for assistive technology. In this hands-on lab, you will learn about and get to try all the terrific applications that can make a difference for your students and clients. We start with Proloquo2Go, a completely customizable AAC solution for the iPhone/iPod, followed by applications for sign language, for planning/organization, for story telling, for reading/writing and much more. You will learn how the iPhone/iPod can make a difference to people with various disabilities, such as traumatic brain injuries, autism, down syndrome, fluency disorders, dyslexia, mild CP, ALS and others. At the end of the day you will know how and when to recommend an iPhone/iPod; you will know what applications are available; and you will have learned to use some of the most promising AT applications. (Hands-on activities will be conducted on iPod touches — one iPod for every one participant.)

Presenters:
David Niemeijer, Ph.D., is the CEO, AssistiveWare, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Samuel Sennott, M.S. Ed. in Assistive Special Education Technology, is a Ph.D. Candidate, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA; and Eric Sailers, M.A., CCC-SLP, is a Speech Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Specialist, La Mesa-Spring Valley School District and Crimson Center, San Diego, CA.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
How do you support classroom learning and participation with students using sophisticated AAC devices, especially with all the vocabulary and programming demands? The answer to that question can be found in The Descriptive Teaching Model. This beginning workshop will demonstrate the Model and will outline key requirements for its successful implementation. The Model focuses on the teaching-talking-testing of content vocabulary through the descriptive use of 50 - 350 critical core words. Participants in this workshop will be given a list of those words and will be taught strategies for curriculum standards. The use of a Natural Aided Language Board will be demonstrated, along with a variety of other visual support materials. Speech language pathologists and teachers are encouraged to attend this session as collaborative teams to learn how to implement this model in their classrooms.

Presenters:
Gail M. Van Tatenhove, M.A., is an AAC-focused Speech Language Pathologist in private practice, AACell, Inc., Orlando, FL.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Selecting instructional strategies that lead to student success is frequently challenging for those who live and work with individuals having severe and profound sensory motor differences. This workshop will build on the previous Assessment workshop, providing strategies for incorporating information gathered during assessment into implementation and the development of appropriate programs for students with the most significant sensory motor differences. This session will address ways to design an effective individualized communication program that builds on the abilities identified through the Every Move Counts, Clicks and Chats assessment protocols; the relationship of switch use, symbol understanding, low tech communication and assistive technology (including voca); recognize five levels of sequential strategies that support the development of communication and purposeful switch use; effectively integrate communication training into daily activities by providing appropriate choice-making opportunities; and progress through a hierarchy of alternate and augmentative communication systems in order to identify and provide the communication system (no tech through high tech) that best meets an individual's needs and abilities. (Note: Although not mandatory, it is strongly recommended that the Every Move Counts, Clicks and Chats Assessment Strategies workshop [on Tuesday] be taken first to better understand and apply that which will be taught in this Implementation workshop. The manual is included in the cost of the Tuesday Assessment workshop.)

Presenters:
Jane Korsten, M.A., is a Speech Language Pathologist, EMC, Inc., Leawood, KS; Terry Foss, M.Ed., is an AT Resource Facilitator, Lee's Summit, MO; and Lisa Berry, OTR/L, is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Blue Valley School District, Lenexa, KS.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Would you like to create your own early and emergent literacy activities using IntelliTools Classroom Suite? This full day hands-on computer lab will take out some of the mystery and teach you tips and tricks for creating custom activities. Templates will be specifically for students who use switches to access the computer, based on “Two Switches to Success” (Burkhart). We will guide you through the process of modifying templates that have been cleverly designed and authored to make modifications simple. You will be able to customize the software for a variety of Early Literacy activities. (Hands-on activities will be conducted on both PC and Macintosh computers — one computer for every two participants.) NOTE: If you plan to bring your own computer, you will be responsible for having Classroom Suite 4 installed with the latest update from IntelliTools' Web site, along with Overlay Maker 3. If you are still using Classroom Suite 3.2, that is fine, but please also install a demo version of Classroom Suite 4 on the same computer. Plan to arrive 20 minutes prior to the start of the workshop to set up your computer. There is a $35 materials fee in addition to the cost of the workshop.

Presenters:
Linda J. Burkhart, B.S., is a Special Educator/Augmentative Communication Specialist/Technology Integration Specialist in private practice, Eldersburg, MD; Susan Garber is the Executive Director, AT:LAST, Inc.: The MD AT Cooperative, Columbia, MD; Jeanne Noorisa is a Special Educator, AT Team, Baltimore County Public Schools, Monkton, MD; Jan Kurtz, M.S., is an Occupational Therapist, AT Team, Baltimore County Public Schools, Hampstead, MD; and Marsye W. Kaplan, M.S., CCC-SLP, ATP, is an Assistive Technology Team Leader, Baltimore County Public Schools, Owings Mills, MD.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Are you exasperated with trying to identify and find or make age appropriate materials, books and resources to meet the needs of your adolescent or adult communicators (AAC), whether they have severe/profound developmental disabilities or acquired complex communication needs? Given the ultimate goal of offering a functional system for communication in the daily environment, all persons involved with individuals with complex communication needs are well served in examining their practices in this area. During this workshop, rationale and criteria for selecting age appropriate topics, activities and materials will be discussed. The basic elements of a structured environment, which includes assessment, effective communication, communication partners and physical environment, will be defined. Mechanisms for assuring provision of person centered, age appropriate communication services will be included. Strategies for structuring daily environments, settings and routines in which the AAC user must function will be shared. Methods and applications for fostering social, intellectual, communicative and emotional development for these individuals will be addressed. Attendees will make one of several different, new kits utilizing a thematic approach to communication programming for adolescents and adults with complex communication needs. Participants will receive a CD containing materials to make all kits, as well as a guide to over 300 commercially available materials, software and AT devices, with brief descriptions, possible applications and vendor information. There is a $30 materials fee in addition to the cost of the workshop.

Presenters:
Elizabeth (Libby) S. Rush, M.A., CCC-SLP, CPM, is an AAC Consultant in private practice, Durham, NC and Celeste Helling, M.A., CCC-SLP, ATP, is a Speech Language Pathologist, North Carolina Assistive Technology Program, Charlotte, NC.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
This hands-on computer workshop will focus on 21st century technology training. It will begin with a discussion of the changing role of today's technology specialists, and how important it is to think beyond the face-to-face method of training in order to build capacity. We will engage our audience in a discussion of 21st century professional development strategies that include more digital options, shifting us from the “sage on the stage” to more of the role of facilitator/moderator. You will have hands-on opportunities to use screen capture software to create on-demand training, and learn how to conduct effective webinars. Online training options, including the use of wikis, blogs and podcasts, will be practiced. Frustrated that you can't train staff often enough or fast enough? This workshop is for you. (Hands-on activities will be conducted on PC computers — one computer for every two participants.)

Presenters:
Denise C. DeCoste, Ed.D., is an Assistive Technology Specialist and a High Incidence Accessible Technology Team Leader; William McGrath, M.S., is an Occupational Therapist and Assistive Technology Specialist; and Beth Poss, M.A., M.S., is a Speech Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Consultant, all, Montgomery County Public Schools, Bethesda, MD.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
This hands-on, intermediate to advanced level workshop is designed to show participants some tricks and templates for more complete use of PowerPoint with their students. We'll look at older, as well as the newest, versions of this highly popular program with the aim of producing a variety of activities for a wide range of students with special needs. This work will be task-based and will include a wide variety of lesson samples and templates that have been tried and tested with actual students. Participants will learn how to make one-click lessons, make templates, add students to modified lessons to ensure interest, make puzzles, create cross curriculum lessons, have students show what they know in layout mode, create games, create on-screen books with multiple strand choices, make labeled diagrams, create talking maps and more! While creating these lessons, participants will also learn some of the advanced features of the program and tricks that work with particular student needs. Participants are encouraged to bring a flash drive so they can take their work with them at the end of the day. (Hands-on activities will be conducted on Macintosh computers — one computer for every three participants.)

Presenters:
Judith P. Sweeney, M.A. Special Education, is an AT Consultant and the President, Onion Mountain Technology, Inc., Canton, CT.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
This intermediate workshop will explore points we should consider when planning, designing, selecting vocabulary and teaching elements of AAC systems to be used by children who rely on scanning as their access method. We will review known information and discuss components of scanning AAC systems, such as motor tasks required, display design, vocabulary selection, teaching strategies, physical configuration, types of switches needed and used, and seating. Central to this workshop will be the question, "Can the majority of children who use scanning as their AAC system access method become generative in their language and communication use?"

Presenters:
Michele Bishop, B.A., ATP, is a Teacher/Assistive Technology Specialist in private practice, San Francisco, CA and Karen M. Kangas, B.S., ATP, is an Occupational Therapist in private practice, Shamokin, PA.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
The prospect of teaching students with significant disabilities to read and write may seem daunting. We chose to start a Balanced Literacy Club, working as a team to support all teachers, therapists, and paras. This project included a full-day presentation, short monthly presentations, including make-it projects, in-class modeling and coaching, and team celebration of successes. So far, the clubs have spanned seven school districts and 33 classrooms, and include a range of students (with cognitive impairments, autism spectrum disorders, physical impairments, and those using AAC devices). Throughout this workshop, we will share assessment ideas, videos, data, specific strategies for all parts of balanced literacy (word study, guided reading, writing and self-selected reading), and tips for getting EVERYONE onboard and excited about pushing for quality, research-based literacy instruction. Presenters will also focus on ideas for replicating this project. Participants will receive a CD with multiple forms for setting up your own club and sample intervention templates. There is a $15 materials fee in addition to the cost of the workshop.

Presenters:
Caroline Ramsey Musselwhite, Ed.D., CCC-SLP, is an Assistive Technology Consultant and Author, AAC Intervention, Litchfield Park, AZ; Patty Ashby, M.N.S. in Speech Language Pathology, is an Assistive Technology Consultant, Washington Elementary School District, Sweetwater School, Glendale, AZ; Laurel Richardson, M.A. Ed., OTR, is an AT Specialist, Buckeye School District, Goodyear, AZ; and Deanna K. Wagner, M.S., CCC-CLP, is an Assistive Technology Specialist, Madison Elementary School District, Phoenix, AZ.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
This full-day workshop will provide information on assessing and teaching children with autism to read and write. A brief overview of the Four Block Model will be provided and participants will be lead through an overview of practical and functional literacy assessments that provide critical information to inform effective literacy instruction. This workshop will distinguish between three types of children with ASD and their unique reading needs. Students illustrated will include children with hyperlexia and limited comprehension, children who are nonverbal and reading, and children with severe auditory processing and language issues who are verbal. Extensive videos will be shown to illustrate key points, techniques, and the integration of literacy and AAC. The day will include small group problem solving and a CD packed with assessment materials. The day guarantees that participants will leave with an abundance of new ideas and increased appreciation for the breadth of literacy instruction for students with ASD. There is a $25 materials fee in addition to the cost of the workshop.

Presenters:
Susan Norwell, M.A., is an Educational Specialist in private practice/Focused Learning Solutions and Instructor, Northeastern Illinois University, Buffalo Grove, IL.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Although the practice of inclusion has opened classroom doors to students with more severe disabilities, many of these students are still not learning the basics. This hands-on workshop will combine both instructional theory and computer technology that support systematic strategies for teaching students with severe disabilities in an inclusive setting. Specific attention will focus on the three Rs (reading, writing and arithmetic). Assistive technology and tools that accommodate learning and incorporate universal design will be emphasized for a range of disabilities. A variety of programs and ideas will be explored that scaffold learning, that help with the assessment of learning and that create opportunities for independent student practice. This workshop will include a CD full of supportive materials, activities and assessment templates. (Hands-on activities will be conducted on both PC and Macintosh computers — one computer for every three participants.) There is a $20 materials fee in addition to the cost of the workshop.

Presenters:
Pati King DeBaun, M.S., is a Speech Language Pathologist/Consultant specializing in assistive technology, Creative Communicating, Park City, UT and Dan Herlihy is an Assistive Technology/Technology Resource Specialist, Connective Technology Solutions, Inc., Hoosick, NY.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
If you find that the professionals you work with can be more challenging than the kids, this workshop is for you! We feel your pain and we're here to help. As veteran consultants ourselves, we are very familiar with the struggle of promoting change with individuals and site teams in the public school setting. We work directly with teams at over 100 schools and consult with many professionals about students with considerable needs and even extreme behaviors. This, of course, can result in sometimes challenging consultative situations. We have developed tools and techniques for consulting with teachers, paraprofessionals, related service providers and parents that have been largely successful and resulted in favorable evaluations from our "customers." Participants will have direct opportunities to practice the strategies we use to facilitate success, not only with implementing use of AT, but also with other necessary interventions. Networking, problem solving and brainstorming will be an integral part of this workshop, so bring your good ideas to share. Ample resources on the topic area will be disseminated.

Presenters:
Keri Huddleston, M.A., CCC-SLP, is an Assistive Technology Consultant, Teru Langsdale, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a Special Education Consultant, and Moira Soulia, M.S., CCC-SLP, is an Assistive Technology Specialist, all, Washoe County School District, Reno, NV.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Description:
Are you struggling with teaching your students (and the adults who support them!) independent functioning skills? If so, this beginner workshop is for you! A primary goal when teaching students with ASD is to decrease dependence on adults. However, this can be quite challenging in school-based settings where the educational climate fosters adult support. For our students with ASD, who by the nature of their disability can become quite “prompt-dependent,” this instructional style can be extremely detrimental, resulting in lifelong ramifications. This workshop will address how to appropriately use adult support to teach independent functioning skills. Numerous practical, evidence-based techniques using various modes of technology will be shared, designed to increase the independent functioning skills of our students with ASD. A unique educational planning guide will be shared, designed to assist teams in identifying contexts and situations that require adult support, necessitating the need for instruction and development of independent skills.

Presenters:
Susan L. Stokes, M.A., CCC-SLP, is an Educational Autism Consultant and Trainer in private practice, Fond du Lac, WI.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm