The Southern California Augmentative and Alternative Communication Network...

...is a support group for professional development, problem solving, leadership, mentoring, and training in the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to develop communication in non-speaking and minimally verbal individuals in the Southern California Region.

Follow this blog via email at the right.
Join our email list: socalaacnetwork@gmail.com
Friend us on Facebook SoCal AAC
Follow us on Twitter @SCAACN

Monday, October 29, 2012

New! from Pati King DeBaun: MyOwnBooks2Go


Hi everyone!
Wanted to let you know I have a new website called myownbooks2go.com. Check out Stirring the Brew View Book section for FREE. I am giving away FREE TRIALS for 3 months. This website allows you to build your own books and add your own sounds. It is switch accessible and you can share to an iPad. An app with Switch Access for the iPad coming soon!!!
It also has over 100+ of my AdaptedStories books and will have all of the resources as well - including books for teens and tweens. Different than other build-a-book sites...tremendous amount of graphics...saves time when you write with kids.

Coming Soon! A section for writing with graphics support that will link to Unique Learning System curriculum...you can write about the curriculum activities with students!

For a FREE SUBSCRIPTION, send an email to pati@creativecommunicating.com and put "myownbooks" in the subject line.

Enjoy!!!  


www.myownbooks2go.com

Sunday, October 28, 2012

PrAACtical AAC: 5 Things SLPs Do That Discourage AAC Use...

Re-posted from PrAACtical AAC (great blog!). Read this article and much, much more on their site HERE.

We mean well. We really do. But sometimes the things we say or do, and even the things we DON’T say/do have a negative impact on our long-range goal of improving AAC outcomes. Here are some of the things we’ve observed that can discourage AAC use.
  1. Recommending AAC without giving stakeholders a solid, evidence-based rationale creates a shaky foundation. People aren’t going to put forth effort to implement something they don’t believe in, and they won’t believe in it until we make a compelling, well-supported argument. ‘Rules that aren’t understood are the first to be broken.’
  1. It’s easy to forget that, in some ways, the AAC user is learning a whole new language. What would it take US to learn a new language? Well, for starters, we’d want to be immersed into an environment with competent speakers of that language. Hearing the language that we’re trying to learn makes sense. For people learning AAC, that means we have to ‘speak AAC’ to them when we’re giving information, directions, telling stories, clarifying, commenting, explaining, etc. We consider aided language input to be a pivotal strategy than all interventionists should use as often as possible.
5 Things SLPs Do That Discourage AAC Use
  1. A focus on assessment rather than instruction may not be what the learner needs. Too much quizzing and the learner will give up.. “Joey, show me ___.” “Where’s the ___?” “Can you find ___?” “Point to ___.” Ugh! We’d stop communicating, too!
  1. Responding too quickly can impair both learning and independence. Our AAC friends need a lot of pause time to process the language they see/hear, then organize and execute their responses. For most, that takes at least 5-10 seconds, and some need much longer than that. When we jump in to repeat, rephrase, or prompt, we may be stepping in the path of their learning and independence
  1. Failing to understand what the communicator really wants to talk about is the surest way we know to discourage AAC use. As SLPs, we may want the learner to make choices or comment or ask a question. But if the communicator really wants to connect by telling stories, for example, then we’d try to provide some visual scene displays or other message layouts to allow them to talk about things going on in their past/present lives. If the communication aid doesn’t say what the AAC user wants to communicate, it’s likely that they’ll be slow to use it in real-life situations.
No one is perfect, and we shouldn’t expect ourselves to be flawless professionals who run our personal best race each and every time we work with an AAC client. But to be the kind of professionals we each strive to be, it helps to stop and reflect on things we’re doing to see where we can improve. Sometimes it’s the little things, like a few more seconds of pause time or asking fewer questions. Little changes, big impact.
-

AAC Best Practices Inventory

Great article to keep in your AAC-implementation-planning mind!

Calculator & Black (2009) Validation of an Inventory of Best Practices in the Provision of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Services to Students with Severe Disabilities in the General Education Classrooms. American Journal of Speech Language Pathology, Vol. 18.

Here are their best practice suggestions in 8 helpful categories:

1. PROMOTING POSITIVE VALUES
  • Foster friendships
  • Train teachers and staff
  • Allot time for IEP team meeting/planning
  • Be sensitive to cultural values and beliefs
2. COLLABORATION BETWEEN GENERAL AND SPECIAL EDUCATORS
  • Allow time for routine meetings to discuss curriculum. 
  • Clearly define role of general education staff. 
  • Develop a clear understanding of what the child is expected to learn. 
3. COLLABORATION BETWEEN EDUCATORS AND RELATED SERVICE PROVIDERS
  • SLP may play primary role in AAC program, but implementation is shared by many 
  • SLP consults with teacher and staff regarding instructional and related communication goals and objectives 
  • Consultative role of SLP is supported by administrators, teachers and parents 
4. FAMILY INVOLVEMENT
  • Ideas, concerns and priorities of family are incorporated in the AAC program. 
  • AAC instruction is coordinated between home and school 
  • Family plays important and active role in assessment process
5. CHOOSING AND PLANNING WHAT TO TEACH
  • Implementation and content of AAC program is motivating and reinforcing for student. Teachers, staff and peers understand the relationship between communication and behavior. 
  • AAC program attempts to replace problematic behaviors. 
  • AAC goals address functional communication needs in a variety of environments. 
  • Future communication needs are considered. 
  • Program targets both receptive and expressive language skills. 
6. SCHEDULING, COORDINATING AND DELIVERING INCLUSIVE SERVICES
  • Classmates/peers are taught how to communicate effectively with AAC user. 
  • AAC instruction is integrated into relevant activities throughout the day. 
  • Communication objectives are integrated into the general ed curriculum, rather than working on communication in isolation. 
7. ASSESSING AND REPORTING STUDENT PROGRESS
  • AAC progress is examined in relation to:
 IEP Goals and Objectives
, development of friends and social acquaintances
, development of functional life skills, meaningful participation in general ed curriculum
  • Communication needs are monitored and reassessed regularly since they may change over time.
8. INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES
  • Service providers and teacher work collaboratively to address multiple skills concurrently. 
  • Peers, teacher and staff receive direct instruction on how to use AAC effectively. 
  • AAC user learns to communicate through multiple means, utilizing a combination of no-tech, low-tech and high-tech strategies. 
  • IEP team understands that AAC needs will change over time, as well as available technology. 
  • Teachers and staff make appropriate modifications to increase communication opportunities. 
  • Classmates/peers provide modeling of AAC systems. 
  • There is little evidence of rejection/abandonment of AAC system by user.

Social Story: Autism & Air Travel

This morning's New York Times Travel story Testing Autism and Air Travel. CLICK HERE to download a beautiful set of social stories developed by Philadelphia International Airport in conjunction with Carol Gray.

Autism Speaks has additional resources online (CLICK HERE) with travel tips for families with autism.
 

ASHA 2012: 46 Sessions on AAC

Wednesday, November 14th
Session Code: PC04
Title: The iPad & Your Therapy: Apps, Accessories, Accessibility, & Features (Invited)
Date: Wednesday, November 14th       Time: 01:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: A406-A407
Session Format: Pre-Convention Activities
PDH(s): 3 Hrs
Abstract:
This session is developed by our local host, the Georgia Speech-Language-Hearing Association. This presentation is designed as a hands-on course on the built-in features of the iPad that can make therapy more engaging and efficient. We will discuss the built-in accessibility features, evidence-based apps, and discuss how to use the iPad to assess and monitor therapy progress.
Thursday, November 15th
Session Code: 5000
Title: Visual Attention of People With Aphasia When Viewing Visual Scenes
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B215
Session Format: Technical Research Session
PDH(s): 30 Mins
Abstract:
People with severe aphasia benefit from using visual scene displays; however, little is known about which features within scenes capture their attention. The purpose of this study is to investigate the visual attention patterns of people with aphasia to determine which elements within visual scenes are attended to most frequently.
Session Code: 1001
Title: Analyzing Language Development of Physically Impaired Children Using AAC Devices (Invited)
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: A302
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 2-Hours)
PDH(s): 2 Hrs
Abstract:
This session is developed by SIG 12: Augmentative and Alternative Communication. There are few studies in the AAC literature that have researched grammatical development of children using AAC devices and few language analysis tools account for AAC device use. This presentation adds to the body of knowledge by outlining two case studies of children using AAC devices, with their language analyzed using a tool that accounts for AAC device use. The data will be used
Session Code: 5001
Title: Signal-to-Noise Ratio of Augmentative/Alternative Communication Devices Across Educational Settings
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B215
Session Format: Technical Research Session
PDH(s): 30 Mins
Abstract:
This study measured the volume output level of AAC devices compared with background noise levels for seven students in a variety of school settings. Additionally, this study investigated the compensatory strategies related to inadequacies of volume output levels for AAC devices through qualitative observation and field notes.
Session Code: 5002
Title: Teaching Children to Produce Novel Multi-Symbol Questions/Statements via AAC Apps
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B215
Session Format: Technical Research Session
PDH(s): 30 Mins
Abstract:
Recent data indicate that although children using AAC often exhibit expressive language problems, they have the potential to make notable improvements in their expressive language skills. This session will present findings and clinical implications for an investigation designed to target the construction of novel, multi-symbol statements and questions using iPads.
Session Code: 1027
Title: I Want to Use the Phone Like Everyone Else!
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Participants will come away with a K-12 therapy guide using 7-1-1 Speech-to-Speech services used to develop telephone independence in youngsters with mild/moderate speech disabilities, including those using AAC. Strategies for developing independent telephone use with links to universal design for learning principles and Common Core State Standards will be shared.

Session Code: 1028
Title: Message Organization Strategies & Discourse Production in Persons With Aphasia
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom ABC
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
A single-subject alternating treatment design will be used to compare the effectiveness of visual scene displays versus taxonomic displays in facilitating conversational skills in persons with severe chronic aphasia. Results of this study will enhance our understanding of factors that impact message organization and retrieval in persons with aphasia.

Session Code: 1029
Title: The App Revolution: Where Are We in the Evolution?
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
The introduction of AAC apps onto mobile devices has resulted in considerable discussion regarding their use as specialized assistive technology for communication. This session will revisit pros and cons identified during ASHA's 2011 convention and examine how this emerging technology has evolved to better support AAC users.
Session Code: SC02
Title: Providing Culturally Responsive Services to Early Communicators With Complex Communication Needs
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 01:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B303
Session Format: Short Course
PDH(s): 3 Hrs
Abstract:
This session will cover practical strategies for recognizing and responding to issues related to cultural and language differences (CLD) that can affect service delivery for children and adults who are early communicators. The session will include videotaped and live applications of assessment and intervention strategies for early communicators with CLD.
Session Code: 1072
Title: Edwin and Esther Prentke AAC Distinguished Lecture: Education, Empowerment, and Employment of People Who Use AAC (Invited)
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom D
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Tracks: Students
Assistants
Abstract:
The session is organized by the Convention Program Committee. It features an outstanding lecture by an AAC device user, followed by a Q & A session with audience members. This will be the 16th year that this lecture has been a featured highlight at the ASHA Convention.


Session Code: 1070
Title: Be a PECS-pert: Know the Facts!
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
This session will review facts and misconceptions associated with the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and research to support its effectiveness for individuals with a wide range of challenges. Common misconceptions will be discussed regarding implementation and outcomes of the PECS protocol, as well as research-based facts related to these

Session Code: 1071
Title: Creating a Framework for AAC Evidence-Based Assessment
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
This session provides a summary of major components of AAC evaluation, information that must be collected for each area, and four protocols to assist in obtaining data needed. An overview of how to mix art (clinical expertise) and science (quality research) to provide comprehensive, evidence-based AAC assessments will be presented.

Session Code: 1115
Title: Innovations in Vocabulary Customization: Lessons From Proloquo2Go 2
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 04:30 PM - 05:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Proloquo2Go 2 introduces innovative, flexible, researched-based core word and basic communication vocabularies. Learn how vocabularies are easily customized for a wide range of language levels, access requirements, and vocabulary needs, with a clear path to progress the user from basic requesting to complex utterances with a minimum of programming.
Session Code: 1155
Title: AAC & Autism: Collaboration, Training, & Data Collection in School
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom ABC
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Presenters examine a shift from an outside AAC consultant model to a school team-based approach in a districtwide program for students with autism at a public elementary school. Data tracking, written communication protocols, consultation, and ongoing training resulted in dynamic change with the consistency of communication partner behaviors.

Session Code: 1156
Title: AAC Intervention App: Start NOW & Grow Into the Future
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: A315-A316
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Consumers of AAC and communication partners look for low-cost options. The GoTalk NOW app helps transition to a dynamic display device at a fraction of the cost. Sound principles applied to GoTalk are encouraging consumers to interact in new ways with their communication partners in classrooms and community.

Session Code: 1157
Title: Communication & Beyond: Eye-Gaze Technology to Control the Computer
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Eye-gaze technology has created many opportunities. Using eye-gaze technology as a method of computer access, people can not only communicate, but they can access computer files and applications. This presentation will discuss the use of a clip-on eye control unit to allow access to a computer.

Session Code: 1158
Title: Effectiveness of Telerehabilitation in AAC Service Delivery
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B314
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Using a case study approach, the author will share results of a telerehabilitation model with a range of individuals with complex communication needs, including clients with ALS, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and autism, using a variety of access methods and communication strategies.

Session Code: 1159
Title: Meeting the Communication Needs of Medically Complex Patients in the ICU
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Communication with medically complex patients can be a significant challenge. This session will review nonverbal/augmentative communication options and modified speech techniques to be considered for these patients. There will be discussion of environmental factors, preexisting skills, and current conditions that must be addressed for achieving an effective communication plan of

Session Code: 1160
Title: Using Tablet Technology to Facilitate Communication Across Contexts: Pedro's Story
Date: Thursday, November 15th       Time: 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom D
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
This session offers a comprehensive review of an integrated AAC, literacy, and language intervention approach used with a 9-year-old learner on the autism spectrum. Using multiple video illustrations, the conceptual framework, tablet technologies used to promote across context communication and literacy development, and partners' interactive competencies will be explored.
Friday, November 16th
Session Code: 1188
Title: AAC for Any Ability: Access for All
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom D
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
As the excitement mounts for the adoption of iPad technology, it is important that individuals with motor and sensory impairments not be left behind. Learn about simple communication devices that are easy to activate and apps that can be accessed with a switch to achieve communication and socialization.

Session Code: 1189
Title: Developing Competence: Training Project for School Personnel Supporting High-Tech AAC
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
This session reports on a training protocol developed and implemented for personnel who support students using high-tech AAC at school. Training design and supporting research are reviewed, as well as before and after videotape of participants. Results of the training and plans for this ongoing project will be discussed.

Session Code: 1190
Title: Selecting Skills to Teach AAC Communication Partners
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Working with communication partners is key to achieving success with clients who use AAC. Selecting exactly which skills to teach partners presents particular challenges for clinicians. This session will explore methods for selecting skills that are appropriate for partner instruction that result in desired changes with the client using AAC.
Session Code: 1187
Title: AAC for Adults With Acquired Neurological Conditions: Today & Tomorrow (Invited)
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B206
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 2-Hours)
PDH(s): 2 Hrs
Abstract:
This session is developed by the Convention Program Committee. It will discuss current AAC intervention strategies for adults with motor speech, language, and cognitive limitations due to acquired neurological conditions. Specifically, the presentation will focus on the communication needs and supports of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, brain stem stroke, traumatic brain injury, and sudden onset and primary progressive aphasia. In addition, speakers will identify future clinical, technological, and research needs for these population groups.
Session Code: SC09
Title: Practical Strategies for Building Vocabulary in Students Who Use AAC (Invited)
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 08:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B302
Session Format: Short Course
PDH(s): 3 Hrs
Abstract:
This session is developed by SIG 12: Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Improving the vocabularies of children with AAC needs is an ongoing concern for many clinicians and educators. This presentation discusses current research on semantic development in AAC and presents strategies for group and individual instruction appropriate for students of different ages. Participants will be given access to online materials for vocabulary instruction appropriate for students using AAC across preschool, elementary, and secondary grades levels.
Session Code: 1226
Title: Low- to High-Tech AAC: Expressing Personal Identity
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom D
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
A person's sense of identity develops from childhood and continues to be refined throughout the life span. The sense of personal identity is solidified through the establishment of multi-tiered peer relationships and the relationships with family members. Discover low- to high-tech AAC solutions that can support building relationships with others.

Session Code: 1227
Title: School Professionals' Perceptions of Preparedness for AAC Intervention
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
School professionals in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts were surveyed to determine their perceptions regarding their training and experience in AAC, and comfort level providing AAC services. Results indicate a lack of adequate training for team members and an overall feeling of unpreparedness in serving individuals using AAC.

Session Code: 1228
Title: Using Evidence-Based Practice Methodologies to Teach Expressive AAC Use
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr

Abstract:
This session will explore the use of aided language stimulation and shared storybook reading to teach expressive language to AAC users. Through case studies and an examination of the research base behind these techniques, we will illustrate that these are promising techniques, although not yet fully established as evidence-based practice.
Session Code: 1256
Title: AAC: What Was, Is, & Hopefully Will Be (Invited)
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B206
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Tracks: Students

Abstract:
This session is developed by the Convention Program Committee. Alternative "speech" systems have been with us since Homo sapiens began to express themselves verbally. They were in many different forms, but for the most part provided a means of nonverbal expression for persons with severe dysarthria and other significant speech disorders. With the advent of technology, such as electric typewriters and computers, the science of bringing communication systems to persons with multiple disabilities has grown

Session Code: 1255
Title: AAC Strategies for Use With Limited English Proficiency Hospitalized Patients
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
The number of patients in U.S. hospitals with limited English proficiency (LEP) is growing. The Joint Commission requires hospitals to address the communication needs of this population. AAC strategies and devices can offer patients a means of communicating to better participate in their care.

Session Code: 1257
Title: Challenges & Opportunities of Consumer Devices for AAC
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B213
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
With the advent of inexpensive iOS solutions, AAC systems are now being purchased without an SLP evaluation, and there are too few AAC specialists to support evidence-based implementation for the exponentially growing number of AAC users. This paper discusses the challenges, opportunities, and responsibilities in this new world.

Session Code: 1258
Title: Meet Core Content & State Standards for Students Using AAC
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom D
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
This presentation demonstrates how to teach and test students who use AAC using strategies that save time and improve outcomes. Information on core vocabulary, referential teaching, and descriptive teaching will be presented. Core content and state standards will be shown and examples of how to meet them will be provided.
Friday, November 16th
Session Code: 1297
Title: Building Communicative Competence With Individuals Who Require AAC (Invited)
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Location: Georgia World Congress Center       Room: B206
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
This session is developed by the Convention Program Committee. In order to attain communicative competence, individuals with complex communication needs (CCN) that require AAC must develop knowledge, judgment, and skills in four interrelated domains: linguistic, operational, social, and strategic. This session will review current research on interventions to build skills in these domains to further the communicative competence of individuals with CCN. Case examples will be presented to illustrate implications for evidence-based practice.

Session Code: 1295
Title: A Core Issue: A Core Vocabulary for the Common Core
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Students who use AAC face numerous challenges accessing the academic curriculum. The new Common Core State Standards (CCSS) provide us with a unique opportunity to develop core vocabulary, including language necessary for academics. This presentation will include considerations used in developing and expanding a core vocabulary for the new CCSS.

Session Code: 1296
Title: A Treatment Hierarchy for Acquiring Eye Gaze Access Skills in Children
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Children who rely on eye gaze for technology must learn specific visual, motor, and attention skills for mouse control, in addition to language and cognitive demands of a speech-generating device. A treatment hierarchy of customized strategies for teaching eye gaze access to young children is presented, with supporting video.

Session Code: 1298
Title: iPad's Early Literacy, Language, & Multiple Disabilities
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom D
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Tracks: Students
Assistants
Abstract:
Participants will walk away with guidelines to determine the value of an app for children with severe and multiple disabilities and some unique tools and ideas to improve access including switch accessibility. Specific strategies and apps for early literacy and language will be addressed.
Session Code: 1368
Title: Get Your Motor Going
Date: Friday, November 16th       Time: 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom D
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
An automatic motor plan facilitates use of AAC for someone with autism. It becomes a challenge to "get that motor going" in regular education. This session will feature implementation strategies using a consistent and unique motor plan to increase communication in a regular education classroom. Videotaped examples will be shared.
Saturday, November 17th
Session Code: 1392
Title: Effects of AAC Technologies With "Just in Time" Programming
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
AAC technologies with "just in time" (JIT) programming allow partners to quickly add new contexts and vocabulary to AAC systems during interactions. This session will present the results of research that investigated the effects of JIT systems compared to traditional AAC systems on the communication of preschoolers with CCN.

Session Code: 1393
Title: Evidence-Based Practices for Use of Visual Scene Displays (VSDs)
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom ABC
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Many AAC users need supports to move beyond expressing want/needs ("I want" communications). This session examines options for using VSDs as shared communication spaces for conversational exchanges, opportunities for learning, and occasions for play/leisure with beginning communicators, those with severe/profound cognitive limitations, and persons with acquired language disorders. Attendees will

Session Code: 1394
Title: New Approaches to Assessment for Early Communicators
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom D
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Appropriate assessment for individuals operating at the earliest stages of communication development has long been a challenge. The presenters will describe three instruments that they have developed to meet this challenge: the Communication Matrix, the Communication Complexities Scale, and the Infant Social and Communication Behavior Scales.

Session Code: 1395
Title: When an iPad Might Be Best: Considerations for Best Practice
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
iPad fever continues to impact our practice. Professionals are caught between the demand for iPad use and what we know are best practices for our field. This session will provide ways to utilize what we know about best practices while including the iPad in our assessments and interventions.
Session Code: 1430
Title: Current Models, Methods, & Practices for Effective Communication Partners Training
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom D
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Successful approaches to communication partner instruction utilized in three different situations will be addressed. Current models, methods, and strategies for training partners that facilitate real connections between AAC users and partners will be discussed. Participants will receive a CD containing activities for partner training, print and share brochures, and the

Session Code: 1432
Title: UNESCO Report on Accessible ICTs: Implications for ASHA Members
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
The authors participated in an international panel, sponsored by UNESCO and Microsoft, addressing information and communication technologies for students with disabilities. This session will explore the implications of the report for SLPs, and the larger context of the United Nations Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities.

Session Code: 1431
Title: Triple A for iPad: Apps, Accessibility, & Accessories
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
In this seminar, you will learn how the iPad is accessible to everyone regardless of an individual's disability. Discover specific apps designed with accessibility in mind. Accessibility features, such as VoiceOver and Assistive Touch, will be highlighted. In addition, apps compatible with switch access will be covered.
Session Code: 1452
Title: Building Communication/Literacy in Students With Moderate-to-Severe Disabilities Using Stories
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom E
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
A research-based framework for adapting storybooks so students with moderate-to-severe physical, cognitive, and communicative needs can participate in storybook reading/literacy activities will be presented. Lesson plans, what and how to prepare (including use of iPads) for students with multiple needs, and supporting comprehension for all will be shared.


Session Code: 1453
Title: The iPad Pilot Project: Idea to Implementation
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
The iPad pilot team was created to determine the efficacy of using iPads as an alternate tool for communication and/or access to curriculum for students with special needs. Consideration was given to a variety of factors as a replacement tool for current technologies used.
Session Code: 1485
Title: Using AAC Device Client-Generated Data to Develop Therapy Sessions
Date: Saturday, November 17th       Time: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Location: Omni Hotel       Room: Omni Ballroom F
Session Format: Oral Session (Seminar 1-Hour)
PDH(s): 1 Hr
Abstract:
Some AAC devices can collect client-generated language samples. Such data can be used to develop therapy sessions. This presentation will demonstrate how to use paper-based and software-based tools to help this process. Non-device-generated data will also be discussed.