Nebraska Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Summer Conference
“Evidence-Based Intervention and Apps to Improve Communication Outcomes for Individuals with Autism Who Use AAC”
October 7, 2022 | 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. CT
View Agenda | Brochure
Summary
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) contribute to a heterogeneous group of individuals and many of these individuals will require AAC to maximize interpersonal relationships, educational outcomes, employment opportunities, and leisure pursuits. We have organized the day according to the progression from emerging communication to independent communication. Per stage, we will outline language skills that occur, discuss considerations, research, and needs in relation to those with ASD and complex communication needs, and describe high-tech AAC supports that have potential to support the needs and skills of the communicator. Per stage, a hands-on activity* will occur, providing the opportunities for learners to apply newly acquired knowledge to the development of high-tech AAC supports.
*Bring iPads: Hands-on activities at the conference will be utilizing iPads and applications. We have several that we can loan out during the conference to those who don’t have one. Please make this request on your registration form.
Objectives
After participating in the workshop, learners will have:
- Demonstrated what a visual scene display (VSD) is and with which client populations it can be used.
- Designed and demonstrated the use of a low-tech VSD.
- Constructed and applied adapted books with children who have complex communication needs.
- Identified the key principles when conducting trainings for communication partners who are from low-resource settings.
Keynote Speakers
Jessica G. Caron, PhD, CCC-SLP
Assistant Professor
Penn State Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Dr. Caron’s work is focused on improving language and literacy outcomes for learners with high needs who require AAC including children with ASD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and traumatic brain injury. Specifically, she is interested in improving literacy outcomes for individuals who require AAC through the use of technology and trainings of relevant stakeholders, to close the research-to-practice gap in this area. Dr. Caron is certified as a SLP and has significant experience working on interdisciplinary teams to meet the needs of individuals with complex communication needs, including work in schools and the outpatient setting.
DisclosuresFinancial Disclosure: RERC on AAC & ASHFoundation for research and education, honoraria for speaking.
Non-Financial Disclosure: None
Salena Babb, PhD, BCBA-D
Assistant Teaching Professor
Penn State Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education
Dr. Babb's research interests include implementing augmentative and alternative communication within community, vocational and social settings for adolescents with severe disabilities and complex communication needs. Specifically, she is interested in communication opportunities that occur during those activities and how to provide communication supports for both the individual with complex communication needs as well as the communication partner. Prior to entering the Ph.D program, Salena worked as a high school autism support teacher teaching activities of daily living, vocational and transition skills.
Financial Disclosure: Salena Babb, Ph.D., BCBA-D add Mark T Greenberg funding
Non-Financial Disclosure: None
Location
Munroe-Meyer InstituteWarren G. Sanger Conference Center (Room 10046)
6902 Pine Street, Omaha, NE 68106
- Access our location & map page
- Parking is available in Lot 65 E (east of building) labeled for MMI patients and visitors.
- Enter the building using MMI's main entrance (also east).
- 10046 is on level 1. Immediately inside the entrance, turn right - look for 'Warren G. Sanger Conference Center' signage.
COVID-19 Protocol
Safety is a top priority and COVID-19 protocol for university-sponsored events will be followed. All participants at on-campus indoor gatherings are required to wear face masks, regardless of vaccination status.
Registration Details
- $110 Professional | $50 Student or Parent
- Registration fees include communication apps.
- Lunch is on your own, off campus. Several options are available in the Aksarben area.
- Registration ends 9/25/2022 @ 11:59 p.m. (or) when the course is full.
- A 50% refund will be provided if you need to cancel after 9/25/2022.
| REGISTER HERE |
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Contact Us
MMI Speech-Language Pathology Department
402-559-6460 | Email
Sponsored by
Speech Language Pathology at UNMC Munroe-Meyer Institute (MMI)Munroe Meyer Guild
CME/CE Credit
- This course is offered for up to 0.65 ASHA CEUs (Intermediate level, Professional area)
- ASHA CE Approved Provider | Nebraska Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- This course is offered for 6.5 hours of continuing education for BCBA.