GATE 2014 in Atlanta, GA

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GA Assistive Technology in Education (GATE) 2014

Friday, December 5, 2014

Tracking Trends and Transferring Knowledge

Presenters: Martha Rust and Rachel Wilson, Tools for Life

Session Description:

Welcome to the Assistive Technology revolution! The world around us is evolving at an astounding rate. Assistive Technology developments have been foundational in this evolution and a catalyst producing positive life-changing results for individuals with disabilities. Come learn about what's new in AT and in the AT community as we explore where we were, where we are and perhaps, where we are going. We will also discuss possible solutions to expedite knowledge transfer from research journals to your clients whether they are in school, at home, at work or in the community.

Finding Your Strategy: Understanding Assistive Technology Funding Resources

Presenters: Daphne Brookins and Liz Persaud, Tools for Life

Session Description:

Tools for Life increases independence for Georgians with disabilities by providing access to and acquisition of assistive technology devices and services. The TFL Network is fulfilling the intent of the Tech Act through various statewide activities including funding education and assistance. Sometimes it's easy to find out what assistive technology is available and will help with daily activities; however, often the difficult part is finding and understanding resources that can help acquire these technologies. Funding for AT can be a major barrier and the only obstacle to getting and owning the tools needed for success. This webinar will focus on a few funding resources that can be used to help purchase assistive technology. Presenters will discuss these specific funding resources, their application process and how to successfully navigate a few complex systems to get AT into the hands of Georgians with disabilities Participants will also learn more about the Tools for Life online funding guide, Dollars and Sense. If you are ready to "find your strategy" and learn more about funding your assistive technology devices, then don't miss out on these important resources!

Exploring College and Career Readiness through Assistive Technology

Presenters: Martha Rust & Liz Persaud, Tools for Life

Session Description:

Students need independent access to the curriculum to become life-long learners. Assistive Technology can increase opportunities for education, social interactions, and potential employment but how does it work into transition planning? Assistive Technology can be identified for students through consideration, or evaluation by matching technological features to individual needs. This presentation will compare assistive technology consideration and evaluation as well as provide participants with examples of “feature matched” technology aligned to transition planning. This session will take a closer look at: AMAC | Tools for Life (Georgia's AT Act Program), advocacy, understanding your rights, assistive technology trends to watch, where we are and perhaps where we are going!

Learn More, Do More: Exploring Accessibility and Apps for Surface and Android

Presenters: Martha Rust, Ben Jacobs and Rachel Wilson

When it comes to accessibility features and apps, Apple iOS dominates our classrooms. But did you know that the Android system has over 12,000 various products on the market? They are not the only ones, Microsoft has joined the race with the Surface. With so many tablets to choose from, we can only wonder if the Android platform and Microsoft can support our students in the classroom and through the transition process. If you've always wanted to learn more about Android and Microsoft, then this session is for you! Presenters will provide an overview of the Android system, Microsoft Surface explore the built-in accessibility features and share some apps that can assist with reading, writing, organization, computer and environmental access. Participants are encouraged to bring their devices to this session. Presenters will also provide a few Android and Microsoft tablets for demonstration purposes.

When Low-Tech Solutions are the Right Solutions

Presenters: Rachel Wilson and Martha Rust

Assistive Technology benefits individuals with disabilities of all ages throughout all areas of life including at home, in the community, at work or in school. AT levels out the playing field, reduces anxiety, removes stress, and can provide access where it may have once seemed unattainable. However, the word “technology” can deter many people because of the perceived association of high costs and complex funding. This alone can isolate many individuals with disabilities and provide a barrier to exploring unlimited options to expanding their world. Join us for a unique session that will define and highlight “low-tech” solutions. Did you know that there are a multitude of “low-tech” solutions available in your community stores? Presenters will share success stories of low cost and low tech strategies that have provided unique solutions to what may have seemed like complex obstacles. Discussion will share helpful tips on how to identify when a “low-tech” solution may be the best fit and how to pull the puzzle pieces together to create true success.

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