Session 2

Session 2-A: Apple Universal Access Features

Mark Benno, Ph.D., Curriculum Evangelist, Apple Computer: Since 1985 Apple has been committed to helping people with disabilities access their personal computer. Apple’s commitment to accessibility is evident throughout the Mac OS X operating system which is by design, easy to use, but also includes a wide variety of features and technologies specifically designed to provide accessibility to users with disabilities, such as: speech recognition, talking alerts, display adjustment and so much more. Join us to see a complete demonstration of Apple’s Universal Access Features.

Session 2-B: Team Up with Timo: 3D Animated Tutor for Special Education Pre-K–4

Stephen Puzyn, National Sales Director, Valerie Herskowitz, Presenters, Animated Speech Corporation: This session will discuss the positive impact on students with autism, hearing impairments and other language delays of computer-based intervention for speech, language and reading skills. Ms. Herskowitz will discuss the methods and effectiveness of her therapy using animated computer-based tutor software. Timo software uses a highly accurate “talking head�? with realistic facial and lip movements to effectively engage and interact with students. Such software is being adopted by school districts to improve language skills, to build vocabulary and to increase time on task.

Session 2-C: Making Life Easier Through Occupational Therapy

Alma R. Abdel-Moty, Clinical Associate Professor/OTD, MS, OTR/L, Florida International University: Through an overview of occupational therapy, participants will become aware of different adaptive equipment devices to facilitate performance in activities of daily living. Solutions promoting independence, the future of adaptive equipment and innovative approaches to overcoming challenges will be addressed. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and try different adaptive equipment devices..

Session 2-D: Kurzweil 3000

Roger Steinberg, Florida Sales Manager, Cambium Learning Technologies: In this session, we will review the major functions of Kurzweil 3000 and how they apply to educational needs of many learners. Text-to-speech, talking word processing, and electronic study skills tools will be highlighted. Please stop by to learn more about Kurzweil 3000, software that is truly designed to meet students’ needs universally.
Program Data Sheet (pdf)

Session 2-E: ATEN Resources, Responsibilities and FCAT Accommodations

Beth Saunders, Regional ATEN Manager, FDLRS/ATEN: This presentation will focus on assistive technology (AT) resources and supports available to AT providers as well as families and other groups who support students with disabilities in the state of Florida. It will also address classroom accommodations related to FCAT, alternate assessment, and daily educational activities meant to increase student achievement. In addition, information will be shared about transitioning of AT tools and the responsibility of AT providers to all categories of students with disabilities according to IDEA 2004.
Overview of ATEN and Services (PowePoint)

Session 2-F: Modification and Creation of Low-Tech Adapted Devices and Learning Materials

Cynthia A. Wheeler, Prekindergarten Special Education Teacher, Miami-Dade County Public Schools: Learn ways to make toys, switches, and voice output devices more accessible to children with profound handicaps and multiple physical disabilities through mounting and stabilization techniques using inexpensive materials. Through a powerpoint presentation, participants will see specific examples of how children with profound handicaps have more access to their learning environment because of these simple, inexpensive adaptations. Greater access and ease of using a device increases the opportunities of learning and exploration. Adapted instructional materials as well as easy-to-make sensory toys will be on display. Participants will have the opportunity to assemble a PVC book stand for use with their students

Session 2-G: Using Technology to Build Early Language Skills

Joan Reisinger, Pre-K Speech/Language Pathologist, Miami-Dade County Public Schools: This session will explore the types of vocabulary necessary for children who are learning new words and figuring out language rules, and children who are ready to use language to go beyond the here and now, to go beyond their own personal experience and to go beyond the real world into the imagined world as they become skilled conversation partners. Specific examples and strategies will be actively processed through brainstorming, video segments, and discussion.