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=**SPND 420**= = = =Welcome to Your Course Wiki!= We will be using this wiki for organization of course resources and materials (Read). Google Classroom will be used for active course discussions, announcements and turning in assignments (Write)
 * Intro to Assistive Technology:**
 * Including learners with special needs using AAC and AT**

Course Description
The focus of this course is to strengthen the preparation of teachers of students with severe and moderate disabilities to enable them to teach PreK-12 learners who are non-verbal, have limited speech, and may or may not already use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Assistive Technology (AT). The goal is to provide a greater understanding of how AT and AAC can enable students greater access to the curriculum, differentiate instruction, and support student progress within the least restrictive environment.

Making use of a variety of resources, including AT/AAC user videos, this wiki offers a self-directed overview of AT, AAC, and UDL, including their appropriate use in the classroom and all school settings; the team process for the identification and evaluation for ACC and AT services; the roles of team members in the design and implementation of ACC systems and AT. In-class explorations and activities, online investigations, related discussions, and independent student assignments supplement this overview.

This online learning environment is designed in response to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education regulations requiring that all licensed Teachers participate in professional development topics related to Assistive Technology as outlined within this wiki. DESE acknowledges the critical role of special educators in educating students who use AAC/AT in identifying students who might benefit from it.


 * Class meets Face-to-Face at 6pm-10pm TWO times: October 3rd and November 7th**
 * Assistive Technology (AT) and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Topics that will be explored through in-class activities and online investigations:**
 * Managing the Learning Environment
 * AAC and AT and the Law
 * Assess when AT or an AAC system are educationally, socially and therapeutically appropriate
 * AAC and AT in the team process
 * Collaborative Strategies for Implementation
 * Understanding of the basic functions of AAC Devices
 * Educational and professional terminology
 * Improving access to the general curriculum
 * Transition planning
 * Role of AAC and AT in supporting communication and academic access
 * Continuum of light to high tech options
 * Facilitated Communication
 * Integrating AAC and AT users in the classroom
 * Potential social barriers
 * Access to and participation in non-academic activities
 * Assistive Tech for High Incidence Disabilities
 * Universal Design for Learning
 * The iPad as Assistive Technology
 * Meet some experts: Perspectives from AT Practitioners
 * Curriculum Integration Strategies
 * Options for further Independent Exploration

1. Read the Syllabus 2. Plan weekly study times 3. Log-in to the course at least 3 times per week 4. Ask Questions 5. Make connections with fellow students.
 * Online Learning Tips:**

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