This week, we have the privilege of presenting Rachel’s interview with Hannah Foley, a senior at University of Illinois who is pursuing a career in Assistive Technology & AAC. Hannah has cerebral palsy and is an incredible adult AAC user who works as an ambassador for Saltillo!
Before the interview, Rachel & Chris talk about Christine Derse’s article, A Call for Consistency in AAC Picture Systems. Rachel and Chris discuss their agreement that using different symbols sets can be confusing at times, but note it isn’t clear a universal symbol set would lead to better modeling. For example, adults often use labels, rather than pictures, when modeling, and once a motor plan is in place the pictures become less important.
Key ideas this week:
🔑 Initially, Hannah was against using AAC because she felt her dedicated device was unsightly and it made her feel even more different. Working with Matt Baud, she came to see the importance of communication for her independence and started using an iPad.
🔑 Response time is incredibly important when communicating with an AAC user - it is critical that we give enough time to respond and become comfortable with silence.
🔑 People often assume that Hannah is intellectually impaired, can’t go to college, or manage her care independently because she uses AAC. This is, of course, totally incorrect!
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Visit bit.ly/twtpod for access to previous episodes, resources, and CEU credits that you can earn for listening to TWT episodes!
Resources
Sarah Gregory - Promoting Authentic Inclusion & Social Belonging for AAC Users
Lisa Erwin-Davidson: Researching Core Language & AAC for Preschool Children
David Tobin: Using Audio-Based, Wordless Stories to Generate Language & Foster Creativity
Brandi Lee Wentland: Strategies for AAC Collaboration with Behavior Analysts, SLPs, & More
Supporting AAC Users with Aggressive Behaviors
Meghan Betz: Improving Collaboration & Communication with Parents & Teachers
Kelly Key: Supporting Core Words & AAC Implementation School District Wide
Gail Van Tatenhove: Aging and its Possible Impact on AAC Users
Charlotte DiStefano: Researching ASD and Complex Communication Needs
Productivity “Hacks” to Improve Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Collaboration - Part 3
Productivity “Hacks” to Improve Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Collaboration - Part 2
Productivity “Hacks” to Improve Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Collaboration - Part 1
ABCs of AAC - Part 2 (Earn CEU Credit)
ABCs of AAC - Part 1 (Earn CEU Credit)
The Golden Rules of AAC Competency - Part 2 (Earn CEU Credit)
The Golden Rules of AAC Competency - Part 1 (Earn CEU Credit)
Listener Questions III: Promoting Literacy for AAC Users, AAC & Echolalia, & More
AAC Apps Update - Part 2 (Earn CEU Credit)
AAC Apps Update - Part 1 (Earn CEU Credit)
Stephanie Pitts & Rachel Kapp: Strategies for Supporting Academics & Executive Functioning
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