19 Preconference Workshops
Monday and Tuesday October 7-8, 2013
Select from 19 full-day, in-depth preconference workshops presented by experts in the field in very practical and effective ways.
See list of preconference presenters.
Displaying 1 through 19 of 19 preconference workshops found.
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Monday and Tuesday, October 7-8, 2013
Multi-Modal Communication Strategies for Children Who Have Complex Communication Needs (Official PODD Course) - Two-Day Workshop
Description:
Children who are non-speaking or have only limited speech, in addition to other challenges, often struggle to interact and communicate. This may include children who have physical disabilities, multiple disabilities, sensory processing challenges, limited social interaction skills and/or a range of cognitive limitations and learning difficulties. This two-day workshop will demonstrate the use of a Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display (PODD) approach developed by Gayle Porter (Melbourne, Australia). Generic templates for multi-page light tech communication books have been carefully designed to support genuine communication for a variety of functions throughout the day. These templates can be customized for a range of access methods and other individual needs. Come learn strategies for creating multi-modal language learning environments that provide receptive models and expressive opportunities for language development. Learn strategies for teaching and using PODD with children and their communication partners. Videos and case examples will be shared. Participants will have an opportunity for hands-on practice with PODD communication books. There is a $17 fee for the PODD course manual in addition to the $475 cost of the two-day workshop.
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:
Monday and Tuesday, October 7 and 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Monday, October 7, 2013
Literacy Tools to Improve Writing and Reading Comprehension of Social and Abstract Concepts in Students with Autism: Technologies for Android, PC and iPad
Description:
In this workshop, participants will learn how to recognize the comprehension impairments of students with ASD in single word, sentence and narrative contexts and to remediate these deficits using technology. Participants will learn how to use a variety of tools on mobile tablets, SmartBoards and PCs that will allow them to construct appropriate comprehension therapies. Specific examples include building explicit visualizations of complex word meanings, providing word context through visual maps, using predictive questions and highlighting to extract intention and emotion of author and character and other inferencing tasks. A focus will be on mind mapping tools and multimedia software to make abstract information more concrete (VizZle, Inspiration, book creators, mobile education apps, StoryPals, Abilipad, Draft Builder, Livescribe pen, Opposites, Synonym and Idiom plus Intel and Google Play apps). In addition, a number of tools to improve reading and writing comprehension, text-to-speech, word prediction, images and speech-to-text, will be presented. Participants are strongly encouraged to bring their own wireless-capable computer or Android or iOS device (with flash browser, such as Rover or Puffin for iPads), and with iBook Creator or Creative Book Builder, Voice Dream, a text-to-speech engine, such as IVONA or SVOX, and a mind mapping app (e.g., Inspiration), all preinstalled. Mobile Education's Conversation Builder, Abilipad, StoryPals, Blio voices and iScroll are optional to install.
Presenters:
Katharina I. Boser, Ph.D., is the President, Individual Differences in Learning, and the Technology Coordinator, Glenelg Country School, Ellicott City, MD.
Date:
Monday, October 7, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Accessible Assessments
Description:
Educational reform efforts continue to emphasize the importance of standardized assessment as an accountability measure of student learning. However, the accessibility of standardized assessments continues to be a significant problem that impacts students with disabilities. The purpose of this workshop is to provide participants with an overview of contemporary assessment issues in American schools. Hands-on activities will allow participants to create formative assessments for the classroom to engage students in test-preparation exercises. In addition, we will review the current status of national outcome assessment work being conducted by PARCC, Smarter Balanced and Dynamic Learning Maps in preparation for national HIGH STAKES assessments that will begin in 2014-2015. Participants will receive a resource guide with information on technical issues, legal issues and research. Given the practical nature of this hands-on workshop, participants MUST bring their own laptop or tablet computer that includes a wireless card, Web browser and word processor to the workshop.
Presenters:
Dave L. Edyburn, Ph.D., is a Professor, Dept. of Exceptional Education, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI.
Date:
Monday, October 7, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
MORE Sensory Processing, Sensory Integration and Seating and Access
Description:
Access remains the number one "problem" for many of the children we serve, especially those who have increased tone and are seated in wheelchairs. Sensory processing directly affects visual convergence, focus, attention and postural control. To assist these children in wheelchairs with developing and using "access" to AT devices, we must also better understand how their bodies work functionally (rather than pathologically) and what different seating equipment is needed. Throughout this workshop, the presenter will share strategies and equipment that work and that provide children opportunities to use their sensory processing so that increased, consistent access to AT can be supported and become efficient.
Presenters:
Karen M. Kangas, OTR/L, ATP, is an Occupational Therapist, AT Specialist, Seating and Mobility Specialist and Clinical Educator in private practice, Karen M. Kangas OTR/L, Shamokin, PA.
Date:
Monday, October 7, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Extreme Makeover: Rethinking Morning Meeting and Other Daily Groups to Reflect Best Practices Using iPads
Description:
In special education classrooms, morning meeting and other daily group routines often remain essentially the same from kindergarten through high school and thus become developmentally inappropriate. This time could be used on developing the key skills of reading, writing and communication. Introduction of the iPad may offer the opportunity to shake things up. The focus of this workshop is to develop new educational practices for incorporating reading, writing and communication goals into daily group activities. We will cover relevant instructional techniques and look at a range of iPad apps that can be used to implement or complement these techniques. We will then split into small groups that will work on constructing a model lesson plan for morning meeting or another common daily group activity. We encourage teams (parents, teachers, therapists) who work together in the schools to attend this workshop as a group, but individual participants are welcome as well. An iPad lab will be provided.
Presenters:
David Niemeijer, Ph.D., is the CEO, AssistiveWare, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Mark Coppin, M.S., is an Apple Distinguished Educator and the Director of Assistive Technology, Anne Carlsen Center for Children, Jamestown, ND; Jennifer Marden, M.S., M.A., is a Speech Language Pathologist and an AAC Specialist, AssistiveWare, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Kate Ahern, M.S.Ed., is an AT Specialist, Easter Seals Massachusetts, Haverhill, MA; and Pam Harris, ATACP, is a Customer Support Team Member and Parent of an AAC User, AssistiveWare, Winthrop Harbor, IL.
Date:
Monday, October 7, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Rett Syndrome: Communication and Learning (Tots to Women)
Description:
Rett Syndrome is a complicated disorder that often baffles the most seasoned special service providers. Understanding the core deficits is key to a girls ultimate success; engineering the environment to support and respond to fluctuating sensory needs is paramount. Add to that the daunting task of building communication that is truly communicative and can support literacy and world learning, and now we have a workshop! Come and be inspired! See extensive videos of babies, girls and woman communicating and learning that will help you see what is possible. Leave with strategies for sensory supports, communication set-ups and a working literacy framework for instruction. You will see girls, ages 2 to 30, as they learn to communicate using everything from soft tech to high-tech eye gaze devices. Girls with Rett Syndrome are complicated in that their severe apraxia masks ability that is often underestimated and untapped. Yet shining through their very real and pervasive issues is this eye gaze that often pierces the hearts and minds of those that work with them. Come spend a fast-paced day of immersion in Rett learning and communication strategies.
Presenters:
Susan Norwell, M.A., is an Educational Specialist in private practice/Focused Learning Solutions and Instructor, Northeastern Illinois University, Buffalo Grove, IL, and Judy Lariviere, M.Ed., OTR/L, is a Senior Occupational Therapist/Communication Specialist, Children's Hospital and Research Center (Katie's Clinic for Rett Syndrome), Rancho Cordova, CA.
Date:
Monday, October 7, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Somewhere Lost in the Middle: Serving Students who Struggle with Executive Skills, Processing, Working Memory and Retention
Description:
Students who struggle with memory, processing, retention and executive skill issues require very specific kinds of accommodations, AT supports and teaching strategies. A good majority of these kids are served in the general education classroom and can be perplexing and challenging for teachers. School district teams often struggle with placement issues for these students as they need extra support to learn in the general education classroom, but are too high functioning to be enrolled in a more restrictive setting. Hence, the students are often lost somewhere in the middle and left without the assistance they so desperately need to succeed. This workshop will focus on helping professionals identify the particular educational barriers that interfere with this populations access to the curriculum and offer specific ideas for compensating for neurologically-based deficits. Participants will leave with tools and techniques to address attention, working memory, auditory memory, internal/external distractibility, initiation, planning, follow-through and organization. Attendees will also make and take sample supports to address target areas for their students. There is a $25 materials fee in addition to the cost of the workshop.
Presenters:
Keri Huddleston, M.A., CCC-SLP, is an Assistive Technology Specialist, Moira Soulia, M.S., CCC-SLP, is an Assistive Technology Specialist, and Teru Langsdale, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a Special Education Consultant, all, Washoe County School District, Reno, NV.
Date:
Monday, October 7, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Creating eBooks and Assessment Activities, Broadcasting and Sharing
Description:
Learn how to create accessible eBooks and e-content, including stories, educational content for learning and more, for iPads, Androids and computers, using a wide variety of free and inexpensive apps, programs and online solutions. Next, learn how to create/integrate assessment activities, such as comprehension questions from/into that content using a variety of apps and Web- and computer-based programs. We will also be covering how to move eBooks from one app, program, device or platform to another. Finally, we'll show how you can broadcast your books onto an IWB (such as a SmartBoard) as a "Big Book," allowing your students to highlight points within, or even broadcast an eBook live from your computer or iPad to multiple devices in the class at the same time. Switch accessibility to eBooks on iPad and Android platforms will be demonstrated and - as always - much more! Mac/PC lab provided - BYOD for iPads, tablets, etc.
Presenters:
Dan Herlihy is an Assistive Technology/Technology Resource Specialist, Connective Technology Solutions, Inc., Hoosick, NY, and Liz Medvetz is an Applications Training and Support Specialist, University at Albany, Albany, NY.
Date:
Monday, October 7, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Getting Started with AAC: From Light Tech to iPad and/or Devices
Description:
This workshop is perfect for those teachers, therapists or parents who want to learn how to get started with communication for students who have severe and multiple disabilities. This highly successful program is supported by three years of research with students 5-18 years old. Participants will learn step-by-step instructional strategies for teaching social skills, linguistic skills and literacy skills, from light tech to high tech. Participants will create a variety of materials, including a starter light-tech book, a sample eye-point board, a portable word wall, an electronic book, a game board and adapted tools for accessing the iPad, and will receive a CD with a selection of ready-to-use support materials. In addition to the make-and-take activities, a computer and iPad lab will focus on hands-on time for creating and using communication and literacy materials. Participants are encouraged to bring their own iPads for this session; however, it is not mandatory. 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; Sue Alderfer, M.S., is a Speech Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Training Consultant, Montgomery County Intermediate Unit, Perkiomenville, PA; and Rachael Skinner, B.A., QCS, is the Director, Standing Tall, New York, NY.
Date:
Monday, October 7, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Visual Math Technologies for Students with Attention Impairments: Japanese Abacus (Soroban) Skills for Mental Calculation and Number Sense
Description:
In this workshop, participants will learn how to use the Soroban (Japanese abacus) using iPads, iPods and other tablets (Android or PC) as Soroban devices, in order to begin using the Soroban with their students. The workshop will begin with a brief history and background to understand the development of number sense and neuropsychology of brain areas used in math calculation. Participants will understand how to gradually introduce Soroban skills, from early number setting and place value, to addition and subtraction with the principles of complementary numbers. Visual flashcards will be provided that can be used in a memory match or card game for tablets, SmartBoards or off-line. Participants will be given Web resources for more advanced activities and will be guided through several different abacus and Soroban technologies, including a finger counting abacus-based program. All are available for the SmartBoard, iPad or Android/PC tablet with touch screen. Participants are strongly encouraged to bring their own wireless-capable computer or Android or iOS device (with flash browser, such as Rover or Puffin for iPads), and with WizCom Abacus, Algebra Touch, Long Division, Abakus Tiamo, MathTapper's Find Sums, Japanese Soroban, Aloha Abacus, MyScript Calculator, Algebralator all preinstalled.
Presenters:
Katharina I. Boser, Ph.D., is the President, Individual Differences in Learning, and the Technology Coordinator, Glenelg Country School, Ellicott City, MD.
Date:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
A Writing Teacher's Toolbox: Technology-Supported Instruction for Students with Disabilities
Description:
Writing is frequently under-taught to students with disabilities. Adults assign and evaluate compositions and even set high standards for expected growth. However, none of these actions teach student writers how to actually organize thoughts, choose words carefully, sequence words into descriptions or arguments or polish successive drafts to best meet composition goals. In this workshop, we will demonstrate and discuss what, when and how to teach students to plan, draft, revise and edit. Workshop participants are encouraged to bring laptops and iPads in order to engage in technology-supported lessons and mini-lessons that help students learn how to write and, ultimately, how to write better.
Presenters:
David A. Koppenhaver, Ph.D., is a Professor, Dept. of Reading Education and Special Education, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC and Barbara Wollak, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a Speech Pathologist, AAC and Assistive Technology Specialist and Consultant, St. Paul, MN.
Date:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Transparency of Switch Access to AT (especially for those students with the most complex bodies)
Description:
Switches, their placement and expectation of use can frequently alter actual learning. Access (e.g., automatic single-switch scanning) to activity is frequently decided upon by the switch chosen. Then, the activity itself is altered (smaller scanning array, slower speed) as well. This seems to be backwards. Shouldn't we first be interested in the child's engagement in the activity and then her management of the activity? With the use of electronic switches (zero pressure), we can provide children who have the most complex bodies with more direct involvement in the activity the switch is controlling. This will be a hands-on lab, too!
Presenters:
Karen M. Kangas, OTR/L, ATP, is an Occupational Therapist, AT Specialist, Seating and Mobility Specialist and Clinical Educator in private practice, Karen M. Kangas OTR/L, Shamokin, PA, and Lisa Rotelli, A.S. in Physical Therapy, is an Educational Consultant, Adaptive Switch Labs, Inc., Spicewood, TX.
Date:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Advanced Proloquo2Go and Proloquo4Text Hands-On: Taking Implementation to the Next Level
Description:
Successful implementation of an AAC solution requires in-depth knowledge of the needs of the user, of the customization and configuration options of the AAC app and strategies to match the two. This hands-on workshop will use well-established AAC and AT frameworks and strategies as the foundation for matching user needs with the multitude of customization and configuration options of Proloquo2Go and Proloquo4Text. Intended for people already familiar with either Proloquo2Go 2 (or later) or Proloquo4Text, this workshop will cover advanced switch access configuration, advanced vocabulary customization techniques, multilingual configuration, vocabulary sharing and advanced appearance and interaction settings. Participate, and enhance your ability to implement Proloquo2Go and Proloquo4Text effectively to better serve those persons with whom you work. An iPad lab will be provided.
Presenters:
David Niemeijer, Ph.D., is the CEO, AssistiveWare, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Jennifer Marden, M.S., M.A., is a Speech Language Pathologist and an AAC Specialist, AssistiveWare, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Mark Coppin, M.S., is an Apple Distinguished Educator and the Director of Assistive Technology, Anne Carlsen Center for Children, Jamestown, ND; Cathy Kingeter, M.A., is the Director of Sales and Marketing, Origin Instruments Corp., Grand Prairie, TX; Pam Harris, ATACP, is a Customer Support Team Member and Parent of an AAC User, AssistiveWare, Winthrop Harbor, IL; Anne Verhulp, B.A., is the Communication and Training Manager, AssistiveWare, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Date:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Technology Solutions for Literacy Learning for Girls with Rett Syndrome
Description:
This hands-on computer lab, with practical computer training on software that has proven to support the literacy development for individuals with Rett, will add to the theoretical learning about girls/women with Rett Syndrome. Hands-on lab will include Classroom Suite, Boardmaker Plus/Studio, Tobii Communicator and My Own Books2Go to create books and/or writing activities. Participants will create books and/or writing templates with Abilipad, Clicker Sentences, GoTalkNow, Scene and Heard and Book Creator on the iPad. Participants are encouraged to bring their own iPads with the above apps preinstalled. (Load the ones that fit your needs, we will demo the rest.) Come spend the day learning the coolest apps and most effective software to build your literacy tool belt and increase your skills. We will have all day to learn and we will share our activities via a Wiki developed for this workshop. Participants need to be intermediate computer users to enjoy the pace of this workshop and to get the most out of the day.
Presenters:
Susan Norwell, M.A., is an Educational Specialist in private practice/Focused Learning Solutions and Instructor, Northeastern Illinois University, Buffalo Grove, IL, and Judy Lariviere, M.Ed., OTR/L, is a Senior Occupational Therapist/Communication Specialist, Children's Hospital and Research Center (Katie's Clinic for Rett Syndrome), Rancho Cordova, CA.
Date:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
QR Code Crazy!
Description:
QR Codes or Quick Response Codes have been popping up all over on billboards, in magazines, on product packaging and now, at last, in the classroom! Imagine creating classroom materials that your students will access with their iPads/phones/computers that are multimedia and differentiated for their individual needs! Join this hands-on workshop as we create QR codes that will talk, sing, play video, provide direction, provide access to visual schedules and manual communication displays and much more. Participants will create QR codes that are color coded or personalized with images. Participants will also have access to a resource-filled website with additional supports and resources. Participants are encouraged to bring their own wireless-capable computer with an Internet browser AND an iOS or Android device with QR code reader app installed.
Presenters:
Paula Walser, M.S., CCC-SLP, is the Director of E-Learning/Assistive Technology, CESA 6, Fond du Lac, WI.
Date:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Using Technology as Evidence-Based Practice! Addressing the Learning and Behavioral Needs of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Description:
There are a vast amount of interventions, methodologies and treatments for students with ASD, with new options emerging frequently. However, since not all interventions are equal, how does one sort through the plethora of information to determine the best treatment approach? This workshop will provide participants with a method to do so, by considering interventions that researchers have proven to be effective by meeting criteria as evidence-based practice. Numerous practical, evidence-based practices that use various modes of technology, as identified by The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder, will be discussed and reviewed, identifying key features for effective school-based programs. This workshop will assist participants to determine practices that match individual learners specific needs because not every identified practice is appropriate for every learner. Attendees will participate in reflection and planning activities for immediate and successful implementation of these practices to address the specific learning and behavioral needs of students with ASD. Participants will leave this workshop with a wealth of information and resources related to evidence-based practices that blend low- and high-tech strategies as tech tools for students with ASD. Participants are strongly encouraged to bring a wireless-capable laptop/netbook/SmartPhone/iPad for interactive participation.
Presenters:
Susan L. Stokes, M.A., CCC-SLP, is an Educational Autism Consultant and Trainer in private practice, Fond du Lac, WI.
Date:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
The iPad Creation Station: Supporting Struggling Students
Description:
Polluting your iPad with so many apps that you dont know where to begin? Roll up your sleeves in this hands-on workshop and walk away with powerful ideas that will provide you with an endless supply of iPad materials by using specifically chosen tools and a collection of resources. Instead of using hundreds of apps, we'll share step-by-step instructions on how to create your own iPad activities and tips and tricks for iPads in the classroom. Participants will learn the ins and outs of a variety of apps, including switch accessible materials, addressing content standards and the individualized needs of all students, including students with severe and multiple disabilities. We will work with Clicker Docs, Sentences, Book Creator for iPad, MyOwnBooks2Go, Panther Math, Flash Cards, Voice Dream, Sounding Board, Panther Connect and some new apps not yet released, as well as online resources and computer tools to create your own learning materials.
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:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Five Steps to Successful Implementation of AAC Apps in Classrooms
Description:
Implementation doesnt come with a download. Whether your student is using a free AAC app, a simple app, a complex app or an app that costs hundreds of dollars, student and partner strategies probably arent as easy as the click was to install the app. Well there is no need to get discouraged and think that you have to download another app to get to AAC utopia! Let Kelly and Scott share with you the five steps to success that theyve used in real classrooms with real people, working really hard, with real kids. These strategies have been blended over the years from a variety of AAC device implementation approaches and now updated for todays AAC apps. Together they are ready to walk you through the process. Step 1: Have a Plan. Seems simple? This workshop will begin with an overview of the different classroom-based implementation strategies that are available, giving you a foundation of choice for your variety of students. Step 2: Everybody Onboard. Again, seems simple? This section is about all of the classroom stake-holders who make - and break - the implementation of AAC in the classroom - how to bring them around and to see it as the trainer and AAC implementer do. Step 3: Teaching Communication. Seems simple? Everyone needs to know where the student is headed communicatively, not just the SLP, and that using AAC needs to be taught during real activities in a classroom setting, not just at a table being fed to touch a button. Steps 4 and 5? Join them and find out....
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, Milton, WI.
Date:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
The Art of AT Service Delivery for Birth to Three: Fun, Functional and Family Friendly
Description:
From assessment to intervention to coaching caregivers, the art of providing assistive technology services to children, birth to three, and their families requires entering into collaborative arrangements with families. Extensive videos of young children and their families will demonstrate how to enhance the social, conversational and literacy skills in young children with motor impairments and complex communication needs, autism spectrum disorders and those who are ambulatory and delayed. The close relationship between play and language will be explored, with consideration for augmentative communication strategies and tools chosen. Emphasis will be on coaching family members to provide effective interventions in daily routines and play contexts. Discussion as to how the iPad fits into activities will be shared. Hands-on opportunities with equipment and make-and-take will be included. Participants will receive a CD with resources, multi-page communication books and PowerPoint templates, and make-and-take projects to print later. There is a $10 materials fee in addition to the cost of the workshop.
Presenters:
Karen M. Casey, M.A., CCC-SLP, is an AT Consultant, Durham Children's Developmental Services Agency, Durham, NC.
Date:
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
What participants have said
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
One benefit of a conference environment is the opportunity to experience, in person, the tools we often just read about.
~Technology Specialist
