Class 2

Assistive technology frameworks and processes:

I really like Dr. Marcia's (MPT) model. It was very simple to understand with each section explained very clearly. I think it would be an easy model to follow in my future programming. I don't currently use any model:( and I know this can be waist of time for the student you are trying to assist. In our previous course I started the process of choosing assistive technology without using a model to see what might be the best fit. This waisted time for that student and following a model might have led me in a different direction. I know myself and I would not use a model that is difficult to understand. This would be a quick reference to look at to make sure you looked at the student and considered the three pieces.

Although the WATI framework is very thorough and the final result might be to lead you to appropriate assistive technology I just don't think it would be beneficial to me. It just seems very lengthy.

SETT framework - Student, environment, technology, task. This is a nice framework to follow when you have the opportunity to sit with a group and work collaboratively.
Stages also seems interesting but doesn't provide a clear full model

HAAT- Human activity assistive technology. I found a great document to break down and explain the HAAT model. You don't have to search through to find what is important. It is a nice document to describe what the HAAT model is and how it works. Simple and to the point. Copy and paste the link below.

http://assistivetech-4alllearners.wikispaces.com/file/view/HAAT+model+info.pdf

Although the models are all similar my personal preference would be to use one of the models that could be looked at in a timely manner and help guide you: this appears to be the HAAT model or MPT.

Next, we did a group activity where we were given different scenarios of people that are non verbal. The skits were great comedy relief but also very effective to see the challenges of being non verbal and some of the creative ways people can communicate. It's important to remember the three critical elements in communication: Communication partner, joint attention, and common language.

Go Talk series - I love that you do not need extensive training to learn how to use this. For that reason alone it would be a great technology to introduce in a school setting. The price is another attractive feature along with the the different size grids. There is so much turn over in staff that work with students with special needs that this could easily be continued regardless of who receives formal training because the technology is so easy to use.

Presentation - Communication

There is so much involved in communicating and I think most of us don't consider this until communication becomes challenging. There are so many things to consider.

Assistive Technology device sampling - Although I've used proloquo2go with a student it was nice to get the opportunity to explore the Ipod touch more in depth. The student I worked with was hearing impaired but he was able to just use the keyboard. For this reason, I don't have experience creating anything inside the program. I did find another Ipod touch application that seems similiar to proloquo2go. The name of the applicaiton is voice4u. It doesn't seem to have as many features as proloquo2go but it is only $29.oo.



Another great class and more of my mind filled with newly introduced assistive technology.