Promoting Peer Engagement and AAC in Inclusive Classrooms
About the Guest(s):
Elizabeth Biggs, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Special Education at Vanderbilt University. She is also an affiliated faculty member of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center. Her research focuses on improving social, communication, language, and literacy outcomes for students with complex communication needs, particularly supporting their belonging and inclusion.
Erin Turner, MA, is an Educational Consultant for the Enhancing Peer Networks Project at Vanderbilt University. As a special educator for 12 years, Erin served diverse schools and districts across many roles. She taught both general and special education classes, led an inclusion program, and served as a district-wide special education coach. She now collaborates with and provides training to educators and school sites to implement the Enhanced Peer Networks Intervention.
Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/bgkXTbRTJPDDE78wJfxWcJubJww
Summary: In this episode, Tim Villegas interviews Elizabeth Biggs and Erin Turner about the importance of fostering peer relationships in inclusive classrooms. They discuss why relationships with peers are often overlooked, the benefits of inclusive classrooms beyond academic progress, and the role of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in supporting communication access for students with limited speech. Elizabeth and Erin share insights from their research and provide practical strategies for educators and families to promote peer engagement and friendship in schools.
Key Takeaways:
Resources:
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