Exploring the Cognitive Load and Motor Load of Teaching and Using an AAC System

Presenter(s)

Event Details

Topic:

augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)

Format:

lecture

Subject Level:

intermediate

Age Span:

preschool
kindergarten - grade 6
grades 7-12
adult

Target Audience:

AT specialist
autism specialist
consultant

educator
family member / caregiver

occupational therapist
paraprofessional
physical therapist
special educator
speech language pathologist
teacher of the visually impaired

Professional Development Credits

IACET CEUs:

.3 CEUs

ACVREP CEs:

2.5 CEs

Presentation Length: 2hrs 30mins

Location:

Plaza 4

Description:

When supporting a child in becoming a communicator, teaching the use of an AAC system presents numerous challenges. Today’s session will focus on the underlying characteristics of cognitive and motor development, especially what has become critical analysis of the teaching needed to support independent AAC use. Cognitive load, motor memory, including cognitive mapping, senses maturation, and sensory processing experience will be examined as to their impact on the child’s ability to manage an AAC system, including its software and its access.

Learning Outcomes:

As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Identify at least 2 causes of “Cognitive Overload” and 2 recommended methods to manage them.

• Define “cognitive load” and “motor memory” and describe how they work together in developing AAC independence.

• Name at least two stages of cognitive development according to Piaget and demonstrate their relationship to teaching and learning the use of an AAC system.