Alternative Augmentative Communication (aac) Series

MITS is pleased to announce an Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) Series that will be held in Lansing.

Dates: Tuesdays: October 26, January 25, February 22, March 22,

April 26

Thursdays: November 18, December 16

Time: Half Day and All Day Presentations - Time Varies by Topic

Location: Wolverine Room

6412 Centurion Drive, Ste. 130

Lansing, Mi 48917

Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

This course will focus on the Unity software program available in the Vantage Lite. Participants will be given an overview of the vocabulary options available and will learn how use those vocabulary programs to create spontaneous novel utterances. Participants will be given teaching strategies to support Unity. Participants will also be introduced to basic device operations such as using the set-up key to customize messages, changing icons, hiding keys, backing up the memory of the device, and keyboard emulation.

Time: 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Time: 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Tobii Communicator is a powerful computer program used on Tobii SGD systems. In addition to providing basic communication functions (synthesized and/or digitized speech output), it also includes a large variety of integrated computer functions. The program can be used with multiple access methods including direct select via touch or mouse, single or dual switch scanning, head pointing, and eye gaze. The program also includes symbol or text based communication, on screen keyboards for written communication as well as integrated e-mail, web browsing, music and video playing, and taking photos. This session will allow participants to learn how to use the program for students that need technology for communication and computer access.

Time: TBD

There are unique challenges when implementing AAC in the classroom setting. This presentation provides information and resources to assist you in expanding a student's ability to participate in the curriculum while building communication skills that will serve him or her for a lifetime.

Time: TBD

Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

This course will provide a thorough understanding of the ECO communication device. Participants will learn about the hardware features, new drop-down menus, improved word prediction, and how to customize the device for the user's individual needs. They will also learn about the exciting new Learning Scenes. An introduction of Minspeak principles will be reviewed as well as the Unity patterns (whole sentences, phrases, single words, pronoun phrases, category patterns) and how to teach Unity.

Time: 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Time: 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Eye gaze technology has been available for about 20 years, but until recently it was very difficult for people to use. Improvements in technology are finally to the point that it is functional and reliable. This access method has opened exciting communication and other functional possibilities for people that could not use a SGD/AAC previously. It has become an amazing tool for SLP’s, teachers, and therapists to help their students achieve goals that were previously impossible. This session will provide an overview of the strengths and weaknesses of eye gaze and will provide a number of strategies on how to use this type of access most effectively.

Time: TBD

Communication partners and assistants play an important role in enhancing independence in communication and encouraging use of more complex language skills. The five techniques presented in this presentation can be used to expand communication skills in AAC users of varying ages and communication abilities in any environment.

For more information please contact Barb Meier at: bsue.meier@gmail.com

Michigan’s Integrated Technology Supports (MITS) is an IDEA Mandated Activities

Project offered through the Michigan Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Early Intervention Services.