Assistive Technology (AT) & Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) St. John Fisher College GSED 515 Educational Technology Adapted from Schultz, EDUC 204 Fall 2014

Objectives Viewers will… ISTE – Teacher Standards Know the IDEA definition of Assistive Technology (AT) Find resources for AT in literacy, math, communication, and social interaction Identify a range of Assistive Technology devices used in classrooms and Understand what Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is and Understand how AAC can be used to support student learning and development Identify resources to support life-long learning about AT and AAC ISTE – Teacher Standards 2. Design and develop digital age learning experiences and assessments. b. Develop technology- enriched learning environments that enable all students to pursue their individual curiosities and become active participants in setting their own educational goals, managing their own learning, and assessing their own progress 3. Model digital age work and learning d. Model and facilitate effective use of current and emerging digital tools to locate, analyze, evaluate, and use information resources to support research and learning.

All students deserve the opportunity to express ideas communicate with others socially and academically participate in challenging curriculum For students with visual processing problems, white on blue is the best screen

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act: Assistive Technology Statute: TITLE I / A / 602 / 1 (1) Assistive technology device.-- (A) In general.--The term `assistive technology device' means any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of a child with a disability. (B) Exception.--The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, or the replacement of such device.

Assistive technology helps students Increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities (IDEA, Statute: TITLE I / A / 602 / 1) Build independence or function independently Access learning/ improve academic learning Socialize, build relationships

Common Sense Media your turn - 30 minutes Visit Common Sense Media’s Special Needs and Learning Difficulties page (use hyperlink below) https://www.commonsensemedia.org/special-needs Set a timer for 30 minutes. Explore the site, following the steps on this slide and the next slide: Choose one of the “Most Popular Questions” and review the article. Watch the brief video: Tips for Kids with Learning Difficulties Under the Research & Resources tab, click the Download: Common Sense Media's Guide to Apps for Kids with Special Needs. This will take you to a new page.

Common Sense Media your turn: 30 minutes - continued On the Common Sense Media’s Guide to Apps for Kids with Special Needs, review: About this Guide Reading and Writing Math Communication Social Interaction On these pages, notice that on the left you can choose a level: Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced.

Tech Finder at Understood (linked through Common Sense Media) https://www.understood.org/en/tools/tech-finder This link takes you to a Tech Finder: explore the options

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. We all use AAC when we make facial expressions or gestures, use symbols or pictures, or write. People with severe speech or language problems rely on AAC to supplement existing speech or replace speech that is not functional. Special augmentative aids, such as picture and symbol communication boards and electronic devices, are available to help people express themselves. This may increase social interaction, school performance, and feelings of self-worth. AAC users should not stop using speech if they are able to do so. The AAC aids and devices are used to enhance their communication. Retrieved from: http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/AAC/

AAC: Common Commercial Devices your turn- 15 minutes DynaVox/ Tobii / Eyemax/Lightwriter Set a timer for 15 minutes. Explore the dynavoxtech site using the link below: http://www.dynavoxtech.com/products/

AAC in Use Watch the first 2:30 minutes – review of what AAC is (the video is distorted after that): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3m8_YmTDDM

Ellen: YouTube Video Ellen uses Assistive Technology to go about her day to day life - both at home and in college. Ellen has Cerebral Palsy and has difficulty controlling her body - she is able to access her Assistive Technology using two head switches. Through these head switches, Ellen is able to drive her powered chair, communicate with people, access the computer and internet and control her TV and household equipment. Watch this video about Ellen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAdEOXD9Tvk&index=5&list=PLC3D9F9B7 B358E983

Consideration for Discussion Board What were your initial impressions of Ellen? What AAC and AT supports her success?