Unit 5:  Reflection paper over Module 5 websites: AAC, Low to High Tech Access

Unit 5:  Reflection paper over Module 5 websites: AAC, Low to High Tech Access to the Curriculum (formal APA paper, 500-700 words)
Once you have investigated the sites below (w/ readings provided in Unit 5), submit a summary (500-700 words). Include your thoughts and plans for using this information in the future.

Please investigate options for solutions ranging from low to high tech devices and choices for accessing the devices. In order to achieve this, there are sites on the web provided below.  Selected highlights to view will be suggested for each site. There is MUCH MORE to see at each site, so I would encourage you to allow plenty of time to browse and see what is available for accessing the educational curriculum no matter what issues or label the student may have.  There are other sites that have documents/handouts and ideas for classroom implementation and how to be a good communication partner with your non-verbal student. You might find that a web site from a previous assignment and those in this assignment may also assist you completing this unit’s requirements. I hope you are accumulating a “favorites/bookmark” folder on you desktop for this class!

Site 1: Enabling Devices: http://www.enablingdevices.com 
This great site not only has AAC systems but switches, adapted toys, sensory devices, environmental control units and much more. Check out this link https://enablingdevices.com/activity-guides-product-tips/12-fun-aac-activities-for-the-special-education-classroom/to learn about 12 fun activities for AAC in classroom.

Site 2: Ablenet, Inc: http://www.ablenetinc.com/
 Ablenet is one of the world’s largest companies dealing with a broad variety of AT products for special needs children and adults.  Take the time to browse through their communication systems, switches, access systems, literacy products, math curriculum, environmental controls, mounting systems and software! But to get started, click on the Assistive Technology tab at the top and then click on the category you want to start with. The “Action Dictionary” the very last choice under the AT tab, is a free app. for your iBook. It’s a great resource for teachers with students with complex communication needs.

Site 3: Prentke Romich Corporation: http://www.prentrom.com/ 
Now, we’re getting into the serious “high tech” leaders in AAC!  Prentke Romich and Dynavox Systems (Site 4) are the leaders in this industry. They are, however, closely followed by Zygo which is listed as Site 5 in this unit. As you look through these three sites, see if you can figure out the difference between “static and dynamic displays” in these high end devices! Go to the “products tab” to start exploring and there are also numerous educational resources / links under the educational resources tab. And see this page to see the comparison between low tech AAC and high tech AAC: https://liberator.net.au/support/education/aac/low-tech-vs-high-tech.

Site 4: Dynavox Systems:  https://www.tobiidynavox.com/en-us/
Here’s another “biggie” in AAC high tech! Click on the produce tab at the top, choose one or more of their products to explore, to make a “student connection” go to “conditions” tab at the top of the page and pick one or more disability categories.  What type of child/adult would benefit from each? Notice also that Dynavox has merged with Mayer Johnson (currently Boardmaker: https://goboardmaker.com/) to make communication software that enable laptops and mobile devices into powerful communication systems!!

Site 5: Zygo Industries: http://www.zygo-usa.com/ 
At the top click on Products. Here are the categories for you to explore.  Look at the difference between the digital recording, text to speech and dynamic display devices.

Additional Sites
1. https://lindaburkhart.com/handouts/: These handouts are great resources for classroom implementation and how you, the parent and /or the classroom assistant can teach the student how to communicate and be a good communication partner with the student.  
2. http://www.aacintervention.com/: Dr. Musselwhite is always adding practical, best practice ideas for AAC implementation in the classroom.
3. Innovations in Special Education Technology: Research, Practice Portal–pick of the week, etc; and Products:  https://www.isetcec.org/  
4. diglo: https://www.diglo.com/
5. HearMore: http://www.hearmore.com/store/default.asp
6. Krown Manufacturing: http://www.krownmfg.com/
7. Website for Assistive Technology Kansans: http://atk.ku.edu
8. AAC apps for iPhone/iPad: http://www.spectronics.com.au/iphoneipad-apps-for-aac
9. AAC apps for Android: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/12/01/android-aac-apps/

————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————
Assignment: Once you have investigated the websites and completed the readings, submit a summary (500-700 words) with a reflection piece. Include your thoughts and plans for using this information in the future (100 points).