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Pittsburgh AAC Language Seminar Series:

Facing the Challenges of Access and Functional Competence of AAC Kids with Complex Bodies

July 13-15 2021

Virtual Pittsburgh AAC Language Seminar Series (PALSS)

 

Virtual PALSS will cover a range of topics over the course of 3 days using a variety of formats including lecture, breakout activity sessions, and hands-on follow along instruction with devices/software. Each day includes a lunch break and several short duration breaks. Registered participants will receive a detailed agenda.

 

Registration Fee: $224.00

 

*Registration before June 29, 2021 will allow time for a device loan from PRC to be arranged (US Residents). A device is not required to participate in the seminar but having access to one can be beneficial during hands-on segments.

 

DAY 1 – (10AM – 5:30PM EST)
Core Vocabulary
Language Acquisition
Communication Partner Training
UNITY® Language System – Hands-on Time

DAY 2 – (10AM – 5:30PM EST)
Guest Speaker Presentation (Details Below)

DAY 3 – (10AM – 5:30PM EST)
Recognition Memory and Motor Automaticity
Language Development in the Classroom
Bloom’s Taxonomy
Conversation with Chris Klein (individual who uses a UNITY® system)
PASS Software Training
Natural Polysemy

PALSS Team

 

Guest Speaker Presentation:

Facing the Challenges of Access and Functional Competence of AAC Kids with Complex Bodies

Karen Kangas, OTR/L

Access independence and competence remain a challenge for students with complex bodies. To support children in developing and using “access” to AT devices, we must better understand how their bodies work functionally, (rather than pathologically) and what different seating equipment is needed. We need to understand sensory processing directly affects visual convergence, task attention, task engagement and postural control.

Access can’t simply be a choice of eye gaze, or single switch scanning, but must become a part of the activities within a child’s day. Equipment must include the knowledge of the activity and its inherent seating, movement, and experience needs.

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