Agenda
Ruston Location November 7th
Registration
8:00AM – 8:30AM
8:30 AM – 9:45 AM
ALL WRITE ALREADY
Tammy Dupre & Saundra Manual
Description: Get students ready to express themselves with language!!! Students with physical and cognitive limitations often miss out on meaningful writing instruction. This session will explore strategies designed to provide rich writing experiences for emergent learners. By using Predictable Chart Writing in combination with Alternative Pencils, participants will learn how to support students in interacting, communicating, and completing a predictable chart. The ultimate goal is to empower students to effectively communicate their thoughts and ideas, regardless of physical or cognitive challenges.
10:00 AM – 11:15 PM
Addressing the Elephant in the Room: Fringe Vocabulary
Misty Falting
Description: We should teach core vocabulary first….or should we? It is widely known that fringe vocabulary makes up 20% of our speech while 80% of our speech consists of core vocabulary. Word frequency has been the basis for teaching core vocabulary first when working with students that have complex communication needs and use AAC. However, a recent article published in the ASHA Journal (March 2024) revealed that relying on word frequency as a basis for selection of taught vocabulary might be insufficient. Let’s inspect this research together, learn how we can select vocabulary that best meets each individual student’s needs, and explore a variety of AT options for fringe vocabulary as it pertains to participation and assessments.
11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
Lunch (on your own)
12:30 PM – 1:45 PM
App Aptitude
Justin Sims & Lacey Harkins
Description: Feeling overwhelmed by the world of AAC apps? You’re not alone! With a variety of symbol styles, navigation methods, and features, choosing the right app can feel like a challenge. This session cuts through the confusion! We’ll explore the leading AAC apps to help you grasp their unique strengths and identify ideal users for each.
2:00 PM – 3:15 PM
Low Vision and AAC
Nabiha Mujahid & Robin King
Description: This session explores the intersection of AAC and visual impairment by integrating the stages of the Communication Matrix with Cognitive Development. The presentation will look at how these developmental frameworks relate to communication strategies for students with visual impairments. Attendees will gain insight into practical strategies for supporting AAC users with visual impairments, with a focus on aligning communication goals with cognitive development.