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

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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

6. Common Sense Media your turn - 30 minutes
Visit Common Sense Media’s Special Needs and Learning Difficulties page
(use hyperlink below)
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.

7. 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.

8. Tech Finder at Understood (linked through Common Sense Media)
This link takes you to a Tech Finder: explore the options

9. 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:

10. 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:

11. AAC in Use
Watch the first 2:30 minutes – review of what AAC is (the video is distorted after that):

12. 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:
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13. Consideration for Discussion Board
What were your initial impressions of Ellen?
What AAC and AT supports her success?