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"It would be impossible (and not the intent of this paper) to conduct a comprehensive review of every communication application (app) that exists as of this writing. Rather, a clinical framework for comparing and selecting apps will be offered to assist speech-language pathologists in answering the popular question "What communication apps should we use?" While this platform and certain apps may indeed represent a reasonable match to the strengths and needs of some individuals, it is important that the needs of an individual be considered on a case-by-case basis using a thorough and clinically based approach. To this end, the clinical application of a chart detailing features believed to represent critical and fundamental considerations for a broad profile of people evidencing complex communication needs will be discussed and highlighted through case examples."

"developing a case for tablet computers that can serve as a virtual interpreter for the deaf. Known as UNI, the case uses gesture recognition technology developed by Leap Motion to translate sign language into audible speech. It then merges this with voice recognition technology to convert spoken word to text."

"This workshop will discuss how Chittenden Central Supervisory Union(CCSU) uses an AT Assessment Plan (ATAP) based on the SETT framework to support students with multiple or severe disabilities to enable increased access to the curriculum and independence.  The ATAP and the process of implementing it will be discussed.  Several extensive case studies will be reviewed.  How those ATAPs were revised in subsequent years to continue supporting students will also be covered.  Case studies include students with visual impairments, autism, learning impairments, speech impediments and physical disabilities.  Learn how one district is making a difference for its students with severe or multiple disabilities!"

"This workshop will discuss the second and third year of utilizing iPads and iTouches district wide to support students eligible for special education.  Learn from our mistakes, our many, many mistakes!  Hear the details of how students have used the devices successfully in our new split model - both 1:1 with students receiving special education services and shared across the day during direct instruction with special educators.  Funding, logistics, and in-depth details will be covered.  Case studies will be used to outline the process and the academic successes of students.  iPad utilities and apps utilized will be demonstrated and student work will be shown.  Key successes will be highlighted, as will areas of the deployment needing improvement."

"Path Input is a quick, smart and fun input solution on iPhone and iPod touch. Its distinctive features are as followed: ★★★★ Path Input Keyboard ★★★★ Input a word by drawing its path on the keyboard. For example, to input the word "book", you can touch down your finger at key 'B', move to key 'O', then to key 'K' and lift up your finger. This input mode can tolerate the error. In the above case, if you lift up your finger at key 'L', you can also get the word "book" since "bol", "bool" or "boll" is not meaningful or common English word."

" I'm trying more and more to augment the iPad experience for kids with custom-made communication boards. In Clicky Sticky's case, I captured screen shots and made a few boards for different parts of the app. The purpose of the communication boards was to facilitate more language for requesting, answering questions and commenting when enjoying the iPad together."

"In my work, I define "independence" in communication as: "the ability to communicate anything on any topic to anyone" It doesn't matter whether or not the individual relies on a communication aid or device, as long as he or she can communicate anything to anyone he/she chooses. Since most of us able-bodied speakers take this for granted, it might be easiest to understand independence by seeing its absence in some cases..."

"We offer AAC Comunication Board Editor, Player software and image search engine service. As any other image editor software, Picto4me does not restrict you to only make use of  free images. Some of the images can be placed on websites without any conditions but there will be cases where legal rights would be requested and should be acquired from its author. As an image search service, Picto4Me is not responsible for the use of the pictures returned by the search. "

"For years, students with significant support needs (SSN) received little or no literacy instruction as their education programs focused on life skills, social skills, and vocational training. The little literacy instruction they did receive relied on teaching methods that we now know helped them learn simple component skills in isolation. For example, students matched upper and lower case letters or learned a limited set of sight words. Unfortunately, this instruction never helped students with SSN learn how to read or write to gain or convey meaning. A series of changes in education laws, along with the efforts of students, families, and educators, have raised expectations for academic achievement for students with SSN."

"Easy Spelling Aid is simple to use, extremely responsive and importantly, when writing, delivers instant results. Just say a word or phrase into the app and view the results in upper and lower case letters, atop writing lines to assist with writing."

"The Zingui is a new AAC device from Jabbla. Weighing in at just over 2.5 pounds it is light weight for its 8.4 inch screen. Zingui basic has only recorded voice and Zingui Plus has recorded speech and a choice of Acapela or RealSpeak voices. The Zingui runs MindSpeak software for communication, which uses SymbolStix symbols, Widget and PCS are also available. Other options include WordPower, Picture WordPower and CALL vocabularies. Programming can be done on the device or on a PC computer with MindExpress installed. Access is via touch screen, one or two switch scanning and any other USB based controller. Windows based applications will run on the Zingui (i.e. Media Player, Power Point). The Zingui Plus includes word prediction and grammar morphing. The Zingui comes with your choice of decorator frames for the screen. A carrying case is available and the Zingui has a built in stand. The Zingui runs 6 hours on a regular battery and 12 on a double capacity battery. GEWA Environmental controls are optional."

"Temple Grandin, diagnosed with autism as a child, talks about how her mind works -- sharing her ability to "think in pictures," which helps her solve problems that neurotypical brains might miss. She makes the case that the world needs people on the autism spectrum: visual thinkers, pattern thinkers, verbal thinkers, and all kinds of smart geeky kids."

Resources from the National Educational Technology Plan Statements by individuals and organizations expressing ideas, opinions, and recommendations for the new National Educational Technology Plan. Written Resources such as journal articles, reports, and book chapters that discuss educational or technological developments that can help inform the plan. Technology Tools such as hardware, software or applications that hold promise for transforming our education system. Exemplary Cases of programs, activities, curricula, and system redesign that have harnessed technology in innovative ways to enhance student learning, quality teaching, effective assessment, increased productivity, or other educational goals."

"Welcome If you just joined us, we're very excited to have you be part of our conversation and we look forward to your contributions and ideas in the weeks to come. This site is brought to you by a group of Apple Distinguished Educators who focus on the inclusion of students with disabilities through the use of Apple technologies. We created this site to support our "iPod Touch in the Special Needs" workshop at the CSUN 2010 Conference."

Video from Don Johnston