Blog #11 AAC

What is an AAC device? 
The term AAC device refers to an augmentative or alternative communication device. It is a  device that enables individuals to communicate who have disabilities that make communication difficult. An ACC device can be unaided, low tech, medium tech, or high tech. 

• AAC that is unaided is communication does not require a device or external aid; it can include gestures or vocalizations. 
• A low tech device is one that is simple and non-electronic; it can include PECS or other visuals.
• A mid tech device is electronic but has simple programing. Speech is usually recorded. Examples: GoTalk, BigMac, Super Talker
• A high tech device is one that has complex programming, includes touch screen technology and can be expensive.  Examples: Proloquole or iPads

What are some resources for implementing a device?

•  The following link is a blog called PrAACtical AAC and includes weekly videos and monthly posts on how to implement AAC along with a plethora of other resources on AAC. It provides helpful information as well as a sense of community for parents and educators who are implementing this technology and working with students who have difficulty communicating.  http://praacticalaac.org/
• The following link is to a blog post that specifically discusses what to do at the very beginning of the implementation process. http://www.speakforyourself.org/uncategorized/aac-implementation-start/
• The following is a PDF that discusses everything A-Z that has to do with AAC. http://www.swaaac.com/files/assessandimp/aacbasicsandimplementationbook.pdf  Paul Visvader MA CCC-SLP Assistive Technology Team, Boulder Valley School District, Boulder, CO ©2013

An example of an AAC device and How to Implement it in the Classroom

GoTalk is an AAC mid-tech device that allows teachers to chose images and record audio to go along with the image. There are 4, 9, 12, and 20 square boards that can be used based on the students ability. This devices are particularly useful for students who need more definition between each box or square and for students who need a device simpler than an iPad app. 
It can be implemented in the classroom by :

1. Teacher modeling how to use it
2. Guide student on how to use it
3. Allow student to "play" with it to explore the different pictures and options
4. Show other individuals such as parents and therapists how to use it to ensure generalization
5. Periodically analyze the use of device to make sure it is effective.

 Dell, A.G., Newton, D.A., & Petroff, J.G. (2017) Assistive technology in the classroom: Enhancing the school experiences of students with disabilities (3rd Ed). Boston: Pearson. ISBN: 9780134170411  

Blog # 10 Reading

What are the components of reading? 

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1. Phonemic awareness     
• Understanding the sounds of a language
• Example: knowing "book" is broken down into 3 sounds /b/ /u/ /k/
2. Phonics     
• Recognizing the correspondence between sounds and letters
3.  Fluency     
• Reading orally with speed, accuracy, and proper expression 
4. Comprehension     
• Understanding the meaning of the text 
5. Vocabulary     
• Understanding the meaning of words both orally and in print

What are some difficulties students with disabilities have in reading?

Picture Link: https://clonlaracampus.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/eye-tracking_distortions.jpg

 Common difficulties students with disabilities have in reading include: decoding, reading comprehension, and focusing on the text. Reading difficulties typically occur because of two things: 1) a cognitive impairment such as a learning or intellectual disability or 2) a physical impairment such as a visual impairment/ print disability, dyslexia, etc.

What is one way to make your reading books accessible?

 One way to make reading books accessible is by having the book available on a computer or tablet. By doing so a student can adjust the font, have the words highlighted as they are read, and have the story read to them. These tools allow the student to overcome physical, visual, or audio impairments and can boost comprehension by accommodating the story to the students' needs.

Description of a reading AT tool:

Picture Link: https://www.ok.gov/abletech/images/bookshare%20logo.jpg

Bookshare.org is a website that provides access to free books in digital formats that can be downloaded on the computer, as a talking book, and to Braille devices.  This reading AT tool is great for students with print disabilities. It can be implemented in the classroom by using the site on students' personal devices and on the classroom computer. The books can be used for class reading or independent reading. The website can be accessed here: https://www.bookshare.org/ 

Picture Link: https://www.districtadministration.com/sites/districtadministration/files/Bookshare1.jpg

Dell, A.G., Newton, D.A., & Petroff, J.G. (2017) Assistive technology in the classroom: Enhancing the school experiences of students with disabilities (3rd Ed). Boston: Pearson. ISBN: 9780134170411

Blog Post #9 Behavior

  What is a Behavior Intervention plan? 

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      A Behavior Intervention plans are evidence based techniques to modify behavior. It must be based on a measurable behavior such as movement, avoidance, routine procedure, social-emotional behavior. Before a BPI is written a Functional Behavior Assessment is given to determine the function and severity of the behavior. While implementing a behavior intervention plan evidence based strategies are used to reward and increase positive behavior simultaneously decreasing the targeted/problem behavior.

 

  Why is it important to keep data on student behavior?

Picture Link: https://www.google.com/search?newwindow=1&biw=1536&bih=701&tbm=isch&sa=1&q=data+collection+app+behavior&oq=data+collection+app+behavior&gs_l=img.3...6774.8272.0.8408.9.7.0.0.0.0.290.290.2-1.1.0....0...1c.1.64.img..8.1.289...0i24k1.-U_YGUuWAwo#imgrc=evHANLDLUqpZpM%3A

   Data is a crucial element in behavior intervention because it is a clear way to see if your behavior intervention is working. As a result, it can help you determine what needs to change or stay the same. It is also useful when determining if a child's behavior is severe enough to do further assessments or implement interventions. 

 Choose a behavior AT tool.

    iPrompts is an iPad app that allows people to create picture schedules. Picture schedules show students what activities are coming next and help them keep track of what they already have done. This tool is great for students who have disabilities such as emotional/behavioral disorders or Autism Spectrum disorder. Picture schedules provide structure, reduce anxiety during transitioning, and reduce target (acting out) behaviors.

 

  

  When implementing iPrompts in the classroom the teacher should first familiarize him or herself with the app, customize it for the activity and student, then familiarize and model the app use with the student, parents, and other individuals interacting with the student.

 The app can be found on itunes.com or on the following link: http://www.handholdadaptive.com/iPrompts.html

   Dell, A.G., Newton, D.A., & Petroff, J.G. (2017) Assistive technology in the classroom: Enhancing the school experiences of students with disabilities (3rd Ed). Boston: Pearson. ISBN: 9780134170411