Breakout Sessions


Sessions shown are an example of the sessions that can be expected at the 2020 event. More information coming soon.

SESSION 1     9:45 - 10:30 am

Different Students, Different Systems

KH 116
Connie McCafferty - Prentke Romich Company

An overview of PRC Products, product lines, language systems, and access methods will be shared. Common solutions for different clients will be discussed along with a summary and time for questions.


Low Vision & Blindness Hardware and Software Available Through APH Quota Funds

KH 120
Michael Wood - VFO

In this session we will discuss how to obtain JAWS, ZoomText, Fusion, MAGic and the handheld Video Mag HD video magnifier from the American Printing House for the Blind using Quota Funds or by ordering directly from APH without using Quota Funds. We will teach you some of the basic functions of JAWS (Job Access with Speech) screen reader, ZoomText, Fusion which brings you both JAWS and ZoomText working together, and MAGic (screen magnification) software.


Addressing the Sensory Needs of All Students

KH 155
Dr. Raymond T. Heipp - School Health Corporation

This session will focus on the sensory needs of all students through AT and activities. Approaches within the classroom will be discussed as to create an understanding of how AT tools and holistic activities can be most effectively used. An analysis of proper evaluation will be presented so as to recommend the best tools for the individual and the group as a whole. Finally, a variety of tools within the various sensory categories will be demonstrated in a hands-on manner to give a greater depth of understanding to what the tools are and how they can be best used.

 

SESSION 2     10:45 - 11:30 am

Beyond Requesting - I Have More to Say!

KH 116
Melanie Hoerst - Tobii Dynavox

Participants will be able to list 3 communicative functions beyond requesting and 2 partner communication strategies that move AAC communicators beyond requesting. This session will outline a plan to teach at least one communicative function to an individual using AAC in an everyday setting. Communication competencies in AAC, writing goals, vocabulary selection and communication partner strategies will be addressed. There will be time set aside for questions and answers.


Unlocking a Student's Potential

KH 120
Christine Doody - Kurzweil Education

All learners deserve tools to help them succeed and level the playing field of learning! Gain a better understanding of how assistive technology can help the teacher within the general or special education setting by providing support to students falling below grade level, the ESL student, the visually impaired student, the unorganized student, the dyslexic student, the student with dysgraphia and those with unique learning preferences. Kurzweil 3000 provides a user friendly eco system and 24/7 access from any device.


Tracking Data for IEPs

KH 155
Bob Gephart and Courtney Monastra - Monarch Teaching Technologies

This session will discuss an innovative way to automatically track data for IEPs.  Vizzle was created based on significant research and evidence demonstrating the efficacy of an interactive visual language approach to educating students with special needs.  For students, Vizzle provides a useful tool to help reinforce, refresh and review learned concepts in and outside of the classroom. For teachers, therapists and administrators, Vizzle monitors student progress by automatically tracking and recording student data as they work through standards-aligned lessons. Students can work in a customized learning environment that includes automatic text-to-speech, screen reader and switch accessibility. Participants in this session will learn about the specialized features and instructional activities in the Vizzle app and how they can be applied into everyday instruction and assessment.

 

SESSION 3     12:50 - 1:35 pm

Free Resources from AbleNet You Need to Know About

KH 116
Jamison Hensley - AbleNet, Inc.

Identifying the AT tools you need and the best ways to get them.


Move Your Body. Grow Your Mind. (Virtual)

KH 120
Sandra Turner – Viggi Corp

Supporting diverse learners in the 21st century classroom through movement is one way to allow students to access curriculum in a well-regulated way. Students come to the classroom with a variety of sensory systems, and when the brain is not processing sensory input well, it is usually not directing behavior effectively. Movement and sensory input helps students to process their environment in a way that activates learning and engagement. Creating learning environments that facilitate sensory organizing activities benefits all students and improves educational outcomes.


There's a Robot in the Classroom!

KH 155
Gaye Spetka and Bill Darling - AT Ohio

This session will help you become familiar with and understand how to take advantage of many free AT resources.

 

SESSION 4     1:50 - 2:35 pm

Tips for Teachers to Develop Accessible PowerPoints for the Classroom

KH 116
Rachel Schultz - AT&AEM Center Powered by OCALI

Slide presentations are commonly used across school environments as effective tools for educators to convey information and for students to demonstrate understanding. Attention to accessibility tools can help to reach all learners during classroom activities. In this session from the AT&AEM Center at OCALI, learn the top ten tips to utilize tools within PowerPoint to increase access and foster learning for students.


Changing the Lives of Learners with ASD

KH 120
Tedd Klopp - Westminster Technologies

Demonstration of Milo and the Robots4Autism Program which offers a curriculum specifically designed for learners on the Autism spectrum. Research showing the benefits of this curriculum will also be discussed.


Getting to Know Saltillo

KH 155
Cecilia Marietti - Saltillo Corporation

This session will introduce you to Saltillo Corporation and its communication solutions (i.e., NOVA Chat, Chat Fusion, Touch Chat Express, and the TouchChat App). Participants will learn about the different vocabulary options available, which can easily be customized to meet your client’s needs. A demonstration of customization and use of the devices will be included, along with hands on experience. Key software and hardware features will be discussed. Participants will also learn about the many free resources Saltillo offers including the Chat Editor companion software, online implementation materials, funding support, webinars, and more!