AT for Communication

Proloquo2Go

Proloquo2Go is an app that uses symbols to support communication. It is very user-friendly and can be used by both beginners and advanced users. It can be customized for each individual student through editing the content and adding personalized symbols. When asked questions, the students can reply simply with one word or use phrases followed by what they want to say. 

Here is a video of Proloquo2Go being used in the classroom! This helps give you a sense of how it can be used in the classroom as well as how it works. When asked if they knew what day it was, the students immediately selected the "Today is" phrase. 

You can buy this app at the iTunes app store. It can be used on an iPhone, iPad, iPad, or even Apple Watch. It is currently only available in English but it does have UK, US, and Australian versions. The cost is up there a little bit at $249.99 but it can move mountains for non-verbal students to communicate. 

SETT

STUDENT

ENVIRONMENT

TASKS

TOOLS

This anagram is used to help us as educators select appropriate assistive technology for our students based on their individual needs.

• Start with the student. Identify the nature of their disability and how it affects their learning.
• Then think about the environment they are learning in, keeping in mind the physical arrangement of the classroom as well as the instructional arrangement whether it be one-one-one, small group, etc.
• Next, think about the tasks at hand. What are you expecting the student to do? What do they need to do in order to show their learning?
• Lastly, think about the tools they need to be successful. This includes low to high tech as well as strategies to be implemented. 

Accessible Educational Materials

What is AEM?

Accessible Educational Materials, or AEM, are materials used to help students learn and succeed in their academics. These materials are specifically made to accommodate students across all learning needs.

Who needs AEM? 
Students with an Individualized Education Plan, or IEP, often have accommodations listed that they are able to receive. The IEP goals can include technology, specialized instruction, or support from outside professionals. The IDEA Act focuses mainly on printed text through braille, large print, audio, etc.

AEM can also be called AIM (Accessible Instructional Materials) so here is a joke for those folks that remember AIM usernames.

Resources for AEM
The National Center on Accessible Eduational Materials' YouTube Channel is a great resource to not only become knowledgeable about AEM but also shows them in action. Here is an example of a video on their channel:

Universal Design for Learning

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What is Universal Design for Learning?

UDL, or Universal Design for Learning, is an integrated component in curriculum that allows not only students with disabilities, but every single student to LEARN.

There are three principles that make up UDL:

• Multiple Means of Engagement
• This involves using the students' interests to keep them motivated and giving them a choice in their learning.
• Multiple Means of Representation
• This involves presenting the information in various forms that help ensure students' understadning. 
• Multiple Means of Action/Expression
• This involves preparing many ways for students to show their learning.

What are some benefits of UDL?

To quote this YouTube video, "universal design for learning improves educational outcomes for all students by ensuring meaningful access to the curriculum within an inclusive learning environment." This quote perfectly sums up the benefits of UDL. By following the principles listed above, educators are able to bring forth life from a curriculum that might otherwise do nothing for some students. I really encourage you to watch the YouTube video I linked above. It gives a great overview of UDL and explains how it has changed education. 

What are some resources for UDL?

The National Center on Universal Design for Learning has a website that provides tons of UDL examples and resources. There are links to lesson plans, activities, games, interactive websites, etc. The best part is that it is categorized based on the different principles of UDL.