University News

Third Annual Assistive Technology Conference at Western Feb. 17

February 7, 2017

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MACOMB, IL - Western Illinois University will host the third annual Assistive Technology Conference from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17 in Horrabin Hall, room 1.

The conference is presented by Infinite Potential Through Technology (INFINITEC) and sponsored by the WIU Department of Curriculum and Instruction, the Council for Exceptional Children and a grant from the Illinois State Board of Education. There is no registration fee, and free parking is available.

The conference schedule includes:

• 8-9:45 a.m. – Overview of Assistive Technology for Reading and Writing: Under IDEA 2004, there are five areas that must be considered for students with disabilities. While most are related to a specific disability (e.g., visual impairment or behavior), only one of the five must be considered for all students, regardless of the type or severity of disability: Assistive Technology. Whether it is communication, access to the computer and curriculum, writing, reading, mobility or activities of daily living, this presentation will highlight how and when technologies become assistive technology. An overview will be provided of the legal requirements related to assistive technology, as well as define assistive technology device and assistive technology service. In addition, the new Illinois Assistive Technology Guidance Manual and technical support website will be shared. This presentation will introduce participants to a continuum of assistive technology tools to support reading and writing.

• 10-11:45 a.m. – Web Resources to Build Your Universal Design for Learning Tool Kit (For Elementary Students): This hands-on presentation will introduce participants to websites and web tools that support Universal Design for Learning (UDL). The three basic tenants of UDL, multiple means of representation, multiple means of expression and multiple means of engagement will be defined in terms of the practical application of the internet. These web-based supports will include reading, writing and math for your elementary students.

• 11:45-1 p.m. – Lunch break – Participants will be responsible for finding their own lunch.

• 1-3 p.m. Socially and Emotionally Prepared – Strategies to Teach Social/Emotional Skills: This training will provide strategies and supports for students who have difficulty demonstrating age appropriate social skills and may become emotional. Technology resources and examples will be included.

Six CPDUs will be available free for all professional participants.

To register for the conference, visit goo.gl/zd4VL9.




Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing