Welcome to the April 25th edition of #ATchat. Tonight is out monthly Open Forum! What does that mean? We are participant driven - let's talk about what you want to discuss. First of all, please tell us where you are from and what's on your mind tonight.
Hi, Jodi from MN. I am one of the instructors for #USTSPED740. I am an ECSE teacher and a professional development facilitator with the MN Centers of Excellence. Our class is going to listen in this evening! #atchat
Elisa from FL, where it feels like mid summer already... what's on my mind... is... when is vacation? and, yay, I have @attipscast new book as of today! #ATChat
Hello! My name is Tatum and I am from MN. I am a part of the #USTSPED740 class that is participating tonight. I am an aspiring ESCE teacher with a background in ABA and autism and am interested to see what a live twitter chat looks like #atchat
Greetings! This is Rachel and I am also part of the #USTSPED740 team. I am in the process of obtaining ECSE license, also have a MN license in parent and family education...I look forward to learning more about #atchat as well as how to integrate AT in the lives of families
Hi I am Sandy Sherve a student of the #USTSPED740 class Jodi A. is teaching. I am an early childhood special education paraeducator and happy to be here. #atchat
Hi Danielle! I studied AT at southern as well! It is a great program! I think getting to practice real evaluations during the practicum is so valuable! #ATchat
new chatters - consider using https://t.co/A4xclz4Ktp to follow the chat. It automatically adds in the #atchat for you. Also helps keep you focused on one #
One thing on my mind as I am teaching this course, is what do you wish you had learned or SPED Ts would learn about AT before entering the field? #atchat
How is everyone doing? We are in the final quarter of the school year. What are some of the things you would like to accomplish before school ends? #ATchat
great? @jodialtringer I think if Ts knew enough about what was possible and to ASK for AT early and often for Ss, and always use UDL 1st and foremost...we'd be ages ahead! #ATChat
We're already in the home-stretch, Karen. I'm having my team think about our successes, failures, and how we can convert those failures into future successes. #ATChat
#ATchat every year I have lofty goals but other things get in the way. I hope to reach one more teacher or student to embrace a tool that impacts Instruction
We're already in the home-stretch, Karen. I'm having my team think about our successes, failures, and how we can convert those failures into future successes. #ATChat
Good question! I wish my staff knew more about different types of AT as I typically see them only consider the same software for every student. #atchat
#ustsped740: One thing I wish I had more training in and time to practice/process is spending collaborative time teaming and creating matrices that embed a variety of interventions and strategies, including opportunities for assistive technology #atchat
We're getting faster at introducing students who come to us from K-12 to alt media & how it can work with their AT. For other students, it's getting them to use AT. Lots of smiles and students feeling successful. #ATChat
#atchat That sometimes technology has solutions that don't make a student stand out. Using devices that they may use beyond school, as adults, might be better for the long term.
Hi Andrew! Welcome to #ATchat. My daughter is starting a master's in AgEconomics this fall--Ag education is so important! Love to hear how you integrate AT.
We're getting faster at introducing students who come to us from K-12 to alt media & how it can work with their AT. For other students, it's getting them to use AT. Lots of smiles and students feeling successful. #ATChat
Considering Ss preference 1st and foremost helps their buy-in - asking them, not only what do you need, but what are you willing to use, where... solutions for home might be different than for school #atchat
Just completing a trial on this Communication AT Snap Core. It is fairly easy to use and learn for both teacher and students. It has a voice output and easy to adapt based on student communication needs. #atchat#USTSPED740
#atchat That sometimes technology has solutions that don't make a student stand out. Using devices that they may use beyond school, as adults, might be better for the long term.
I really love Snap + Core - easy for Tt and Ss to make changes to - and can now sync to the cloud for backups, meaning I can program and send down changes from where I am. #atchat - also check out @CoughDropAAC
Yes, and in our case with the birth to 3 population, asking parents what they want for their child, how can we promote play and full participation in daily routines. #atchat
It is honestly easier that ever with the ubiquitous tools that used to cost $$$. Look what's available via smartphones, tablets, built into OSs. #ATchat
Great question. Make sure the student understands what they're using & why it helps. Also, not being wedded to a particular tool helps. Using ubiquitous tools helps too. Most importantly, encourage students to talk with DSS offices to see what is available.
#ATChat
I traveled from CT to upstate New York to go to the EdCamp Access in October 2016 (canceld for 2017). It was great to collaborate with different professionals in an informal setting. I still rave to my coworkers. Definitely better for an SLP/AT than the regular edcamps. #ATchat
#decamps are some of the most valuable PD because it really speaks to people’s why! I have had some great convos and takeaways and connections made at #Edcamp orange and @edcampAccessInt#ATChat
#atchat As we work with families in their home and their children birth to age 3, how do we help them understand that AT can be used by anyone not just the "experts"? It can feel intimidating to give it a try.
This is our monthly Open Forum. Any one can bring up anything. No particular topic - we are participant driven. What would you like to share or learn about? #ATchat
@Hopetechschool Rms have: About 13 SS, 2 staff, quiet corners. 9-2:30 45 week yr (9-1 summer). Mostly common core w/adapt. Invid curric if needed. Been here form the start in '01. #ATchat
I am working closely with our district AT Specialist on improving our systems and support. We want to figure out how to best get information to teachers and families. The website is the first step, but then we want to make sure people know what's there! #atchat
I think that with the rise in technology and free apps out there, we start with something families are familiar with to show them that its that simple! Our district just discovered Snap Scene for the iPad and its a game changer for families #atchat
#atchat As we work with families in their home and their children birth to age 3, how do we help them understand that AT can be used by anyone not just the "experts"? It can feel intimidating to give it a try.
I agree Karen. I love how many universal supports continue to be built in to newer versions of operating systems. Now we just need to get people to use them! #atchat
Maybe a good start would be to choose the most practical AT solution and do some coaching and provide feedback? We want to keep the intimidation factor at a minimum! #atchat
#atchat As we work with families in their home and their children birth to age 3, how do we help them understand that AT can be used by anyone not just the "experts"? It can feel intimidating to give it a try.
We target the families who we know already have iPads and have expressed interest in helping their child communicate better with them. ...its new to us so we are still figuring it out with families #atchat
Jenny, I find that if you can connect the AT to family routines based on a family concern it will help them see the purpose. And model and coach! #atchat
If you weren't here last week, you may want to look at our crowd-sourced Scaffolding Supports With Technology Google Doc. Check it out here. https://t.co/oHSdpFgy57#ATchat
That's a lot of what I see. It's also how we get students introduced to #assistivetech that they can easily take to the workplace without worrying about having the accommodation request rejected because that can and does happen.
#ATChat
I agree Karen. I love how many universal supports continue to be built in to newer versions of operating systems. Now we just need to get people to use them! #atchat
I know it's maybe not the best to go here immediately, but does the school need to hear that providing access to the curriculum for every student is the law? #atchat
I feel like I’ve been able to bring more awareness into more of my districts and teachers regarding AT, the definition and how they can feel more empowered to consider it for every student and the difference between #AT (federal def) and #udl#atchat
Absolutely! Families I have worked with seem afraid that they will do the wrong thing or think that the Ts and other staff should implement the intervention or AT because they aren't Ts. I want to empower them to be active in the process.
My building does prek - middle school/early high school. I find it is harder to get buy-in with little ones to use higher tech AT, because people think it will hold them back. I think it is a constent education process. #ATchat
In reply to
@jodialtringer, @KarenJan, @EdTechBham
Support is a big issue. A major reason why teachers don't use technology (AT or otherwise) is that they don't know how to, or they don't know what resources exist. #atchat
Jenny, I find that if you can connect the AT to family routines based on a family concern it will help them see the purpose. And model and coach! #atchat
It's an app you can download. You can record your voice and take pictures and basically model to kids how to make requests, labeling pictures, etc. We are still learning. #atchat
That is another topic of our learning this week, attitudes and beliefs about AT that aren't backed by research. We encounter many and need to be ready to be myth busters with evidence! #atchat
Right, you don't know what you don't know. But what are the qualities in teachers who do seek out solutions? Seems those qualities need to be fostered so that all teachers are life-long learners. #ATchat
Support is a big issue. A major reason why teachers don't use technology (AT or otherwise) is that they don't know how to, or they don't know what resources exist. #atchat
Very true. I was just thinking of all the resources I link to the teachers I work with as an SLP. Sometimes those same resources could be useful for my AT students or even other classrooms. I don't know the need is there and they don't know it exists. And I'm in-building. #ATchat
In reply to
@EdTechBham, @jodialtringer, @KarenJan
I have been thinking about ways to support the use in between my visits to classrooms, I am on an implementation checklist kick, write out the steps in simple, jargon free language and they have a map for implementation even when I am not there. #atchat
Have you seen instances where an AT device ended up to be too difficult for the child and family to use and so they abandoned it? I have seen a few instances of this. #atchat
I always remind parents that they are their child's first teacher! And especially for 0-3 the learning happens in between the early intervention sessions #atchat
AAC/AT? or something different. I definitely have student specific data. It is all in the implementation. I honestly think the biggest part of my job is helping others implement properly. #ATchat
I always remind parents that they are their child's first teacher! And especially for 0-3 the learning happens in between the early intervention sessions #atchat
Yes that is a big reason for abandonment. That is why it is important to do our homework during the consideration process and make sure the features match the need, keep it as simple as possible while still meeting the need. #atchat
The field of AT is always changing because of the pace of new technology, research, etc. What tips do you have for students for staying relevant and up to date in this fast-paced field? #atchat
I view this as usually failure as professionals. Either 1 we didn't provide enough implmentation support or 2 bad eval that didn't consider SETT and/or feature matching. otherwise- could be lack of motivation on families part once they realized it wasn't a quick fix. #ATchat
Absolutely! I don't have specific data for you right now, but my students who have been using AAC for years are very independent with it and it has actually promoted more vocal word production! #atchat#USTSPED740
Keep participating in #atchat. Go to local conferences. Subscribe to e-mails from companies who publish stuff. Join the QIAT listserve and read through e-mails. Join groups within your field. Also check out facebook groups and follow each other!
I believe in following function before brand. Find AT based on the need & how a function fills that need. By not being wedded to a specific tool, it's easier to adjust when you have to. That's the long game.
#ATChat
The field of AT is always changing because of the pace of new technology, research, etc. What tips do you have for students for staying relevant and up to date in this fast-paced field? #atchat
Always trying to think of ways to keep families & teams motivated when they realize AAC isn’t (usually) a quick fix. I bring this up in the evaluation process but it doesn’t always sink in then. #ATchat
This is so true! I think it’s a good reminder for parents throughout their life! Even after 3, during those crucial early years. Parents are more than just parents to their kids. #atchat
For those already working in the field, how were you able to make yourself aware of your own biases for specific products? Advice for future AT professionals to avoid this? #ATChat#SCSUAT
Good question. Staying aware of all of the products in a specific category and constantly reevaluate WHY you are choosing something bc not one product is right for everything. #atchat
It has to be easy to learn and use, be free or low cost and promote success and independence. Start with the OS that is available and show what is already built-in. #ATchat
For those already working in the field, how were you able to make yourself aware of your own biases for specific products? Advice for future AT professionals to avoid this? #ATChat#SCSUAT
I go to as many webinars as I can. I also have featurs in my head and when I am learning about the student I weed out devices based on that. Let the student make some decisions between tools that meet their needs. Try to avoid "I like X" say instead "this is good for x" #ATchat
I had to look at what my "go to" recommendations were & why they were. Then I asked myself how I'd do it without that tool? If I couldn't come up with an answer, I knew I needed to find more things with the same functionality when possible. #ATChat
For those already working in the field, how were you able to make yourself aware of your own biases for specific products? Advice for future AT professionals to avoid this? #ATChat#SCSUAT
EdCampAccess tends to be more focused on issues for Special Ed/ SLP/ AT/OT. Obviously how important that is, depends on your setting. From there they grow organically. #ATchat
#ATChat#SCSUAT I know I have a bias in AAC because it's what I'm familiar with. Have to learn new ones and continue to see what's out there. Also $$$makes a difference
They are participant driven. Many of us who work with struggling learners host an #EdCampAccess (or EdCampXS). They are more special ed and AT focused. #ATchat
While it's important to have relationships with vendors, it's important to have a clear view of what products you are looking at and not just choose because you know the vendor. #atchat
Hi - Lisa from CT. Practically it helps to work first with what is available -
If the whole district is using Google Drive try what is offered there first #atchat
#scsuat If you are an SLP evaluating AAC apps many companies will give you free access to their apps. This allows you to play around and learn features to your heart's content. #ATchat
Precisely. I routinely see students wanting to use tool X when tool X really isn't going to carry them through higher ed or employment. When they know the functions of that tool & why it helps, it's easier to introduce them to tool Y which is maybe ubiquitous.
#ATChat
For those already working in the field, how were you able to make yourself aware of your own biases for specific products? Advice for future AT professionals to avoid this? #ATChat#SCSUAT
Caroline Musselwhite uses the phrase, "Dance with the partner you came with" It is important to at least try what Ts are already comfortable with and that other Ss are using. More likely to get carry over. #atchat
You are right, there is so much badging, certifying, ambassadors for this or that product! It is just like instruction, you don't want to put your eggs all in one basket! #atchat
I've been leaving behind laminated cards with tips and 5 min exploration activities. Very positively received...one of my summer projects to expand on this. #atchat
In reply to
@jodialtringer, @EdTechBham, @KarenJan
I think it's a healthy attitude, I share it with the exception of a few OT related certifications. Unless you work for one vendor...it's important to be open and know all options. #atchat
Don't forget the long game. These students will leave your classes and schools. Are they ready for AT in the next arena? Make sure they are as best as you can!
#ATChat
With AAC, I think there’s a balance between choosing what may already be in use in the environment that all are comfortable with b/c likely better implementation & then making sure it’s what the student wants and can use well. If not, do the training. #ATchat
Depending on the system, I adapt templates I have for the next few focus vocab words or features of word prediction or office or....I know the student is ready for. I can share some examples via Google docs tomorrow if you want... #atchat
In reply to
@jodialtringer, @EdTechBham, @KarenJan
