Speaker: Jennifer M. Seale, Ph.D.
Sessions begin at 9am and end by 3:30pm. Sign-in begins at 8:30am.
Jeff’s Catering, Brewer, Maine
Register online at our secure registration site. Registration closes one week prior to each event, so register early!
Late registrations will be considered if space is available.
This workshop is for anyone wishing to learn more about the ways in which augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) techniques, tools and strategies can benefit and support individuals with autism across the lifespan. Workshop content is easily adapted to individuals with wide-ranging skill levels and at various developmental stages.
Workshop Description
AAC is much more than “computers” or “tablets” or “applications” that assist people with communication. This workshop will highlight the importance of providing diversified communication supports in the classroom, on the playground, at places of employment and particularly during life transitions (with particular focus on issues surrounding adolescent-to-adulthood transitions for individuals with Autism). In addition to practical, low-cost solutions, this workshop will provide an overview/highlight of recently developed and/or time-tested Apps and technologies that have proven beneficial or may be of particular interest to the autism community. Participants attending this workshop can expect hands on experience with technologies and DIY projects. Participants considering enrolling in this course are suggested to have at least a basic/introductory level understanding of theoretical concepts related to AAC and language learning to maximize value/outcome.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the workshop day, individuals will be able to…
- Identify features available on various AAC applications and dedicated technologies
- Explain how how different features match up with client skills
- Identify key issues to consider for individuals with Autism during life transitions
- Define a communication inventory and explain its value
- Create low-technology communication supports /adaptations
Contact hours are awarded upon completion of the workshop. CEUs (.6) are available with a $20 processing fee.
Speaker bio: Jennifer M. Seale is an Assistant Professor at the University of Maine where she teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in the Communication Sciences and Disorders department. Her academic, research and clinical interests are focused on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) science and practice. Dr. Seale has expertise providing AAC services to diverse client populations, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Her research aims to inform AAC service delivery and product design using human computer interaction, interaction analysis and mixed-methodology techniques. In addition to these interests, Dr. Seale is devoted to advocacy and public education around important social and systemic issues unique to the AAC community.
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Register online at our secure registration site.