Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) Conference & International Conference of Rehabilitation & Robotics (ICORR) June 19-26, 2013

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WS #4: Talking Books, Creative Notes, and Tablet Showdown: Which Apps and Tablet Could Assist a Student With a Learning Disability

  • Carolyn Phillips, ATP, AMAC/Tools for Life
  • Level: All levels Topic Area: COG

Today’s world has really turned into a mobile market. In the year 2010 it was reported that there were over 1000 new apps submitted every day and in 2012 over 400 million iTunes accounts (Y. Lachelle, Aug., 2010 and H. Dediu, June 2012). Apple reported that in 2012 there were approximately 73 million iPhones in the world. With that many mobile devices it is no wonder that students are turning towards using them in their classroom environment. However knowing which tablet and what app to use can be a challenge. Tools for Life created an online database to make it easier for an individual to search for the correct app. Participants will have the opportunity to see and explore Our Favorite Apps for Living, Learning, Working, and Playing.

  • Learning Outcomes:

1. Participants will have the opportunity to compare and contrast at least 3 of the popular mobile tablets.

2. Participants will come away with learning about at least 3 apps that can assist a student with a learning disability read their books or PDFs aloud.

3. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore at least 3 apps that can assist with note taking/ organization.


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WS#19: Are You Ready? Apps for Emergency Preparedness

  • Jamie Prioli, ATP, Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology;
  • Carolyn Phillips, ATP, AMAC/Tools for Life & Pass It On Center
  • Level: All Levels Topic Area: JEA

Each year thousands of people are affected by emergencies and disasters, anywhere from fires, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, natural disasters as well as man-made. Recent natural disasters, such as Hurricanes Irene and Sandy (2011 and 2012) demonstrate to us how accessible apps can play a key role in emergency response and examine the features of existing apps related to emergency preparedness for people with disabilities. This session will review apps that are currently available for iOS and Android that are either specifically related to emergency management and preparedness or that could be deployed in emergency situations.

  • Learning Outcomes:

1. Participants will be able to describe how an app for a mobile device might increase access to assistive technology devices and services, including AT reuse. 2. Participants will be able to describe 3 features that are helpful components in an app during an emergency. 3. Participants will be able to name 3 apps for iOS devices and/or an Android device that can help contribute to effective emergency planning, preparedness or response.

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WS#32: Chasing Squirrels: Our Personal Experiences with Learning Disability and Assistive Technology

  • Jamie Prioli, ATP, Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology;
  • Carolyn Phillips, ATP, AMAC/Tools for Life
  • Level: All Levels Topic Area: COG

No matter how many times it's been said, it needs to be repeated again and again: learning disabilities (LD) do not go away. LD is a problem with lifelong implications. This session will introduce the personal experiences of two nationally recognized assistive technology professionals with learning disabilities and who use AT. They will use their personal and professional experiences to illustrate the difficulties of executive function deficits related to ADHD, dyslexia, deficits with auditory processing and other LD. Finally, and most importantly, successful strategies using assistive technology for the management of these deficits will be offered.

  • Learning Outcomes:

1. Participants will be able to identify 2 executive function deficits for adults diagnosed with learning disabilities. 2. Participants will be able to identify 2 challenges presented to adults diagnosed with learning disabilities. 3. Participants will be able to list 3 AT solutions for workplace accommodations to improve executive function deficits.

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WS#43: Getting Ready: The Role of AT Reuse and AT Professionals in Emergency Preparedness

  • Jamie Prioli, ATP, Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology;
  • Carolyn Phillips, ATP, AMAC/Tools for Life & Pass It On Center
  • Level: All Levels Topic Area: JEA

Each year thousands of people are affected by emergencies and disasters, anywhere from fires, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, natural disasters as well as man-made. People with disabilities are disproportionately affected. This session will review the role of AT reuse and AT professionals in preparing consumers and the community for an emergency and/or disaster. Discussion will center on identifying new skills and specific needs of AT professionals, and information will be provided to expand services, particularly as they relate emergency preparedness and quality AT reuse services.

  • Learning Outcomes:

1. Participants will be able to identify 2 programs serving as a resource for AT reuse. 2. Participants will be able to identify 2 challenges presented to AT users by emergencies and disasters. 3. Participants will be able to list 3 opportunities for providers to prepare AT users about emergency preparedness. 4. Participants will be able to describe 2 key points of information that should be known by/provided to AT users regarding emergency preparedness.

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