Assistive Technology & Computer Workshops for the 1997-98 School Year!
The Technology Resources for Education (T.R.E.) Center is offering workshops on assistive technology through the Capital Region B.O.C.E.S., Special Education Division's VISTA (Valuable Instructional Seminars and Training Activities) program of staff development.
If you are interested in assistive and computer technologies, please review the following workshops listed below, complete the registration form provided and mail to the T.R.E. Center, 1979 Central Avenue, Albany, NY 12205. Fees are waived for Capital Region B.O.C.E.S. Special Ed Division employees.
Please make checks or money orders payable to Capital Region B.O.C.E.S. and send with your regiostration. Registration is required for each workshop you wish to attend.
If you would like any of these workshops offered at your school, or if you'd like to discuss other A.T. Training needs for your district, please contact the TRE Center.
#28 A Beginner's Guide to the Internet for Special Educators
Have you refrained from getting on to the internet for fear of becoming roadkill on the information highway? If so, then this session is for you. We'll help you decide how you can best use the internet to enrich your teaching by answering these questions for you: The Internet: What is it and why do I need it? How do I get started? What should I expect once I'm connected? We'll do a live demonstration of how to use the internet for specific special education topics and you'll leave with a packet of helpful resources. David Grapka, Maywood School, TRE Center Lab, October 9, 1997; 1:00 - 4:00. Fee: $20
#29 Accessible Computers
This is an introduction to the world of assistive technology and how it can be used to make computers more accessible. Emphasis will be on the "low tech" solutions, and the software built into today's computers, both Macintosh and IBM compatibles. No prerequisites required. Jeff Dorr, Maywood School, TRE Center, November 11, 1997; 1:00 - 4:00. Fee: $20
#30 Bored With Making Boards? Try Boardmaker!
Whether you are using Mayer Johnson Picture Symbols for creating communication boards, device overlays, or for the Picture Exchange Communications System (PECS), you are probably tired of the copy, cut and paste scene. The Boardmaker program is software which allows access to over 3,000 resizable symbols in clip art form from the PCS Books I, II, and III. The symbols have been translated into ten languages, and can be reduced or enlarged to any size. The program will enable you to create custom communication boards or overlays for virtually any size grid or matrix with its built-in drawing program. Participants will learn how to generate boards, as well as how to customize symbols by combining elements of two symbols into one. Participants should bring vocabulary ideas, so that they can generate a simple communication display. Beverly Maszdzen, CCC-SLP, Maywood School, TRE Center, April 1, 1998; 12:00 - 3:00. Fee: $20
#31 Learning Disabilities & Attention Deficit Disorders: Integrating Technology & Classroom Strategies to Improve Reading and Writing
Computer technology, software, and strategies (in combination) are making a dramatic impact in the way schools deal with the rising population of students with Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit Disorders. These students are learning and using new approaches to read and write with less frustration and with more independence. Participants will explore various software programs and will receive lists of resources and ideas for implementation. Debra McGarvey and Suzanne Krempa, Maywood School, TRE Center, October 16, 1997; 9:00 - 3:00. Fee: $40
#32 Macintosh Technical Training - Intermediate Level
This is meant for people who have considerable experience using Macintosh computers. If you wish to learn more about trouble shooting, maintenance, upgrades and other techniques to get the most out of your Macintosh, this is the workshop for you! We will cover stand alone and network problems, and walk through maintenance and upgrade implementation. Bring your problems and we'll solve them together. Jeff Dorr, Maywood School, TRE Center, October 20, 1997; 1:00 - 4:00. Fee: $20
#33 Preschool Software For Growing Minds!
A computer can be a powerful tool to help young children with disabilities maximize their potential and become active, motivated learners. A program that provides a mixture of sound, color, and graphics combined with effective teaching strategies can help little minds grasp big concepts. There are a vast and sometimes bewildering array of high quality software programs available to help parents and teachers engage a child's sense of wonder and creativity. Participants in this session will examine some of the issues inherent in using computer technology with small children and be exposed to software for cause-and-effect, readiness activities, thinking skills, communication skills and literacy development. Debra McGarvey and Suzanne Krempa, Maywood School, TRE Center, October 30, 1997; 12:00 - 3:00. Fee: $20
#34 "Raising Standards for All Special Education Students: Assistive Technology's Role"
Students with disabilities cannot achieve higher standards without access to two critical factors: technology suited to their needs, and to teachers - both regular and special education - who are trained to work together to integrate the student into the class.
In this session, participants will use a case study to match a student with a disability to appropriate assistive technology. We'll then discuss specific ways to acquire devices, coordinate delivery of needed services, and integrate the student and the technology into the class. Specific resources will be available for this area of the New York State Guidelines for Assistive Technology. David Grapka, Maywood School, Conference Room A, December 9, 1997; 1:00 - 4:00.
Fee: $20
#35 Technology Updates for Students with Learning Disabilities & Attention Deficit Disorders
Beyond the basics, this session is designed to respond to the many requests for updated information on strategies, hardware, and software available in moving these students towards reading and writing standards. Participants will have an opportunity to experience this technology, and share their own classroom strategies. Prerequisite: Must have attended the introduction course: "Learning Disabilities & Attention Deficit Disorders: Integrating Technology & Classroom Strategies to Improve Reading and Writing Skills." Debra McGarvey and Suzanne Krempa, Maywood School, TRE Center, November 18, 1997; 12:00 - 3:00.
Fee: $20
#36 "What Parents of Students with Disabilities Should Know About Assistive Technology"
What is assistive technology and what are its benefits? Does your child require assistive technology for a free, appropriate public education? If so, how might you work as partners with your school to ensure that the most appropriate assistive technology is made available? What resources and support is available to you and your child's teachers after the technology is in the classroom? This workshop is an opportunity for parents and school personnel to explore answers to these and other questions in a supportive, collaborative atmosphere. David Grapka, Maywood School, Conference Room A, March 10 1998; 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Fee: $15