December 2008 / January 2009
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Editorial Feature
Model of an Assistive Technology Program to Increase Preservice Teachers Awareness and Skills
By
Marcie Bump
Preview:
What do teachers need to know about assistive technology (AT)? At the University of Texas at Austin, the College of Education's AT Lab Orientation introduces undergraduates to technology they will use in the public school setting, AT across the lifetime, and how decisions are made regarding the selection of AT devices. The purpose of this article is to describe the curriculum structure; how we use hands-on activities to ensure active participation; how the orientation is embedded in the college and system of interacting with faculty to integrate an AT session as a course requirement; and some outcomes from the survey students complete at the end of their session.
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An AAC Retrospective Part 2: Myth, politics, culture and attitude
By
Patti Murphy
Preview:
History happens in waves that often reach their crests with a push from the inevitabilities of life. Myths kept alive for decades, political climates, cultural influences and generational differences may at any time be bridges or barriers to new waves of change. This second of a two-part retrospective explores how such variables have colored augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) history, meshing the technological and human factors that undoubtedly will also shape its future.
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Including Accessible Technology-Rich Activities in an Existing Summer Camp
By
Sheryl Burgstahler
Preview:
Each year the DO-IT Center coordinates technology-rich activities at selected summer camps. They teach campers how to send messages to their friends and family with electronic mail, use the World Wide Web for fun and education, create World Wide Web pages and program computers. DO-IT also teaches camp administrators how to develop programs.
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123 - Hey Look at Me!
By
Mo Buti
Preview:
Editors note:
Here's your chance to share your quick tips and tricks - whether they're high tech, low tech or no tech - that are making a difference.
In this issue and the next two issues, Mo Buti, Autism Manager for Chicago Public Schools, will be sharing simple strategies that have worked for her.
Your ideas can make a difference too. Submit your contributions to mturek@closingthegap.com or visit www.closingthegap.com/submit_article.lasso to learn more.
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Internships and Students with Disabilities
By
Scott Bellman
Preview:
Challenging internships are a critical part of career success for all students. Internships help students clarify their career interests and provide new opportunities for learning and growth. Students with disabilities in high school and in college have unique needs as they pursue internships.
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Switch on Learning
By
Cindy Nankee
Preview:
Editor's Note: In each issue we will highlight compelling material from the 2008 conference that spotlights concise how-to ideas and strategies that you can start implementing today.
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AT In Depth
Speech Recognition Trial Protocol
By
Cynthia Cavanagh
Preview:
Improvement in Speech Recognition Accuracy
Continued improvement in the accuracy of speech recognition hardware and software has made it possible for more students to successfully use speech recognition as a writing tool. The previously accepted prognostic indicators for successful use of speech recognition software, though relevant, appear now to have less strength in the context of the improved recognition capabilities of the most recent technologies. Indicators for successful use of speech recognition have included: consistency and intelligibility of speech production; reading level; general computer skills; patience and motivation; and the regular presence of a proficient mentor.
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Product Spotlight
Introducing the PRC Bluetooth Wireless Switch, Allows Wireless Access to PRC Products
Preview:
Prentke Romich Company (PRC), a leading manufacturer of alternative and augmented communication (AAC) devices for individuals with speech disabilities, has announced the release of the PRC Bluetooth Wireless Switch (BTWS), an innovative wireless switch that is comparable to PRC devices with built-in Bluetooth capabilities. The BTWS is compatible with PRC's ECO-14, Springboard Lite, and another newly released innovation, Vantage Lite.¬
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PRC Introduces Vantage Lite, a Portable AAC Powerhouse
Preview:
Prentke Romich Company (PRC), a leading manufacturer of alternative and augmented communication (AAC) devices for individuals with speech disabilities, has announced the release of Vantage Lite, a dedicated device designed for AAC beginners and those ready to advance toward fully independent augmented communication.
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Mayer-Johnson Announces AdaptedLearning.com
Preview:
Mayer-Johnson, developer of innovative software products and symbols designed to help special needs students learn, announced the launch of AdaptedLearning.com (www.adaptedlearning.com). This free resource provides a place to find and share adapted curriculum created with the company's popular Boardmaker Software Family products. It also provides online community functions, as well as feature articles and expert tips that meet the needs of the spectrum of Boardmaker users.
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DynaVox Releases Software Version 1.05 for DynaVox V and Vmax
Preview:
DynaVox, a leading provider of advanced communication solutions that assist individuals with significant speech, language and learning disabilities, announced the release of software version 1.05 for the V and Vmax speech-output devices. This new release includes a range of new features that enhance communication options, ease device setup and use, and provide greater flexibility when working with applications outside the V/Vmax communication software.
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Supernova, Hal, Lunar and LunarPlus Version 10 Launched
Preview:
Dolphin Computer Access, the world-leading provider of software tools that deliver independence to visually and print impaired people, announced the version 10 release of Supernova Reader Magnifier, Hal Screen Reader, Lunar Screen Magnifier and LunarPlus Enhanced Screen Magnifier.
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Ergodex Introduces the DX1 for the Assistive Technology Market
Preview:
Ergodex, a pioneering Silicon Valley company, brings a powerful new technology to the assistive technology market that enables better accessibility to computers. The DX1 Input System recognizes the shortcomings of the keyboard and mouse in dealing with the special needs of individuals with impaired motor skills, blind/low vision conditions, cognitive impairments and/or communication disabilities.
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AbleNet Announces Flourish Software To Track Special Education Student Achievement and Show Administrators How Their Schools Measure UP
Preview:
AbleNet announces the release of Flourish - the only software that helps school administrators track the progress of their special education students and connects IEP goals with state education standards. Flourish provides analysis of all IEP goal data requirements.
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AbleNet Announces New Communications Innovation with Impulse Bluetooth Technology Access for Computers
Preview:
AbleNet announces the release of the innovative new Impulse Bluetooth Technology Access product. Impulse is specifically designed for persons with significant physical limitations, allowing them to use any muscle surface (face, jaw, neck, arm, leg, etc.) to control their computer. This device is particularly applicable for persons with degenerative conditions, such as ALS, MS and MDA, as well as anyone with physical limitations or paralysis.
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