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AAC Academy:
Help Your Students Find Their Voice
10.19.23 • 12.14.23 • 1.18.24 • 2.15.24 • 3.21.24 • 4.18.24 • 5.16.24 • 5.30.24
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM • VIRTUAL
SERIES DESCRIPTION
This virtual series is offered at no charge and was developed specifically to provide training to Oregon public school professionals who are new to working with AAC users. Each session will address a different topic related to supporting AAC users and it is not required that participants be able to attend every session in the series.
DATES & TIMES
Every session is offered live from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on 10/19/23, 12/14/23, 1/18/24, 2/15/24, 3/21/24, 4/18/24, 5/16/24, 5/30/24. Each session will be recorded, and the recording links will be published on this page. The links to each recorded video session can be found below in the Session Titles and Descriptions section.
TARGET AUDIENCE
This series is designed for speech & language pathologists, special education teachers, occupational therapists, and all other early childhood and school-based professionals with an interest in learning how to successfully implement AAC interventions.
CERTIFICATES
A Certificate of Participation is available following the completion of each session along with submission of a brief feedback and learning check form. For participants who successfully complete the entire series, a special AAC Academy Certificate of Completion will be issued.REGISTRATION
It is free and easy to sign up. Separate registration is required for each session. Registration opens approximately 30 days prior to each event.
Click on the event listed below. This will take you to our events calendar where you can register for the session. Note that you must create a free account on our website. This is a one-time process after which you will be able to sign in and register for other events.
QUESTIONS
Please contact Darthea Park at dpark@pps.net
SESSION TITLES AND DESCRIPTIONS
Session 1
Understanding AAC Core Concepts and Principles
October 19, 2023
2:00 PM to 4:00 PMDescription: This training delves into the essential core concepts and principles of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). In this session, we will debunk common myths surrounding AAC use and explore fundamental principles that underpin effective communication for AAC users.
Session 2
Assess, Select, Fund – Getting Started with AAC
December 14, 2023
2:00 PM to 4:00 PMDescription: This training is designed to equip speech-language pathologists, specialists, educators, and paraeducators with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess, select, and secure funding for AAC devices. We will look at a variety of formal and informal assessments, selecting a device to trial and options for getting a device funded.
Session 3
Survey of Robust (most used) AAC Apps and SGD Language Systems
January 18, 2024=
2:00 PM to 4:00 PMDescription: In this live, hands-on session, we will explore a variety of AAC applications and language systems, speech-generating devices, and alternative access methods.
This session was held in person - no video
Session 4
Let’s Connect! Communication Partner Strategies for Building Communication and Connection
Part 1
February 15, 2024
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM“Most natural speakers, no matter what their profession, are unprepared to interact with persons who use AC techniques” - Blackstone, 1991
Description: Research has long indicated that communication partner skills significantly influence the success of communication interactions with students who have used Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC). Successful communication is dependent not only on the augmentative communication tools available but also on communication strategies. Partner skills, in addition to student skills, are critical, allowing students to develop effective communication.
Session 5
Let’s Connect! Communication Partner Strategies for Building Communication and Connection
Part 2
March 21, 2024
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM“Most natural speakers, no matter what their profession, are unprepared to interact with persons who use AC techniques” - Blackstone, 1991
Description: Research has long indicated that communication partner skills significantly influence the success of communication interactions with students who have used Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC). Successful communication is dependent not only on the augmentative communication tools available but also on communication strategies. Partner skills, in addition to student skills, are critical, allowing students to develop effective communication.
Session 6
AAC in the IEP and Implementation Ideas: Sample Goals and Implementation Activities
April 18, 2024
2:00 PM to 4:00 PMDescription: This session will look at how to document AT/AAC considerations in the IEP, and we will discuss writing goals for our AAC users and how to implement strategies that will foster communication. By focusing on sample goals and motivating implementation strategies, this training equips professionals to have a positive impact on the communication and learning outcomes of students with diverse needs.
Session 7
AAC and Literacy for All
May 16, 2024
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM"What’s more functional than literacy?” Dr. Caroline Musselwhite
Description: Everyone deserves and can benefit from literacy instruction. Some students may need more time, teaching, and technology. We will explore tools and strategies such as Adapted Pencils, Shared Reading, Phonemic Awareness, and Predictable Chart Writing.
Session 8
Alternative Access Methods for a Variety of AAC Users
May 30, 2024
2:00 PM to 4:00 PMDescription: Within the context of AAC, the term “access” refers to how the individual will be activating the communication system. For some of our AAC users, direct access (ex. using their hand to touch a screen) is not always an efficient or effective option for them. At times, it could be, but they may require changes to positioning or additional tools. For those who aren't able to directly interact with their AAC system, we need to consider any available volitional movement options. With the support of therapists (OT or PT) for consideration of positioning and its effect on available movement, many body parts should be considered. These options may include neck movement, upper extremity movement, lower extremity movement, and facial movement (including eyes). This training will cover some alternative access methods that empower individuals with a wide range of communication needs. There are a variety of options for alternative access and it is critical to consider several factors that we will review in this session.
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