Midnight Sun Assistive Technology Conference

Classroom technology is no longer tethered to the desktop computer. Learning, research, exploration, analysis, observation, access and more can now take place on the fly, accessed from multiple devices and locations at once. Utilize wi-fi enabled microscopes and document cameras or broadcast video via wi-fi from your computer to a variety of mobile devices together with tools to demonstrate understanding. Using student response applications learn how to “push” quizzes out to iPads, iPods, or other devices, then see student responses graphed and graded immediately. Free web 2.0 tools in the cloud, to all new apps and tools for accessibility and access – re-energize, and re-tool, take your learning environment to a whole new level of possibilities.

Dan Herlihy

Thursday 3:0-4:30

The world of AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication) has become a popular breeding ground for new Apps, but not all are created equal. When considering strategies and tools for giving students with autism & other complex communication needs a voice, you must also consider supporting their language development. In this, not all tools & apps are the same. During this session we will look at the the points that must be considered in choosing and implementing AAC.

Kelly Fonner/ Scott Marfilius

Friday 8:30-10:00

Students who use a switch are often stuck in the world of cause and effect software due to the lack of knowledge of other academic-based products on the market. During this session, we will share a variety of software programs by taking a trip through the school day, academic area by area, and showing example programs that can build switch skills while maintaining an academic focus for the student throughout the school day.

Kelly Fonner/ Scott Marfilius

Friday 10:30-12:00

This course uses a variety of methods to engage participants in becoming informed and in charting their own work life strategies, including film clips, scenarios, and question/answer dialogues. The course will be of interest to anyone with a disability who wishes to enter the workforce, who is considering making changes in their current work life, or who is in a position to support others in this process. It has been designed for people with disabilities and their family members or for any service-providing professional, such as teachers, higher education professionals, job coaches, career counselors, medical/rehabilitation specialists, or social workers.
The following topics are included in this training:
• Success stories—film clip scenarios
• A quick overview of the employment provisions of the ADA
• About the hiring process: new hiring practices used by employers—what do they mean for applicants with disabilities?
• About reasonable accommodation: requesting and sustaining reasonable accommodations/AT options
• Talking to Your Employer: Requesting a reasonable accommodation; disclosing a disability

David Barton

Friday 8:30-10:00

People living in rural areas have limited resources and often use several methods to support themselves and their families. These individuals also typically have have limited access to resources, money, and assistance when it comes to adapting equipment for use by an individual with a disability. However, many items used in farming, fishing, hunting, daily living, and at work can be easily adapted using low cost items that are readily available. Materials for adapting items will be demonstrated and participants will have the opportunity to use some of the materials to make assistive technology adaptations.

John Hancock

Wednesday 3:00-4:30

The purpose of this roundtable discussion is to solicit community feedback and ideas on the topics, functionality and individual needs for the Online Community Web site.  We would love to hear from representatives of Higher Ed, K-12, Non-profits, State of Alaska, Private Sector businesses, as well and individuals, families and other groups. The  “Alaska Accessibility Matters” online community plans to provide a place for discussion forums on different topics related to Accessibility issues in Alaska. Members will be able to create groups, post and promote events, blog or journal, showcase videos, and share resources. The site will serve a broad audience by being open for anyone to join, and will promote a community of practice. Participants of this roundtable discussion will also have the chance to become initial members of the  “Alaska Accessibility Matters” Community and provide further usability input.

Sarah Frick

Friday 3:00-4:30

Apple has been known to make products that are powerful and customer friendly, but what kind of accessibility can be expected from a modern mainstream technology company and what does all this talk about fancy Apple products mean for the average end user? Moreover, what does this mean for the end user with a disability? Apple has always had products with innovations that most assistive technologies traditionally seem to have found hard to support. Trends in assistive technology would tend to indicate that no support can be expected for such advanced technologies, but Apple is all but defined by trends. Apple’s road is long, but it is one they have chosen. They strive to meet to the 110% mark. Apple has proven through their iDevices that they embrace universal design but what about their laptops?

This workshop will discuss and demonstrate over 30 different apps for the Apple iPad that can benefit students in higher education.  These apps will include reading, writing, math, and organizational apps.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Therese Willkomm

Thursday 3:00-4:30

Alaska’s Disability Employment Initiative has a focus on use of assistive technologies within the One Stop Job Center system to access program services and materials and to educate employers, providers and job seekers with disabilities on how technology can overcome barriers in the workplace. This session will introduce participants to the types of technologies used, how they are used in the One Stops and provide an update of the DEI grant and it’s overall scope of services.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Rich Sanders

Wednesday 3:00-4:30

Assistive Technology (AT) offers hope for many students with degenerative neurological disorders (DND). In order to understand the power of appropriate AT for individuals with DND one must first understand the basics. Join us, as we examine the DND process and explore solutions in successfully matching individuals with AT. We will explore specific AT for communication, environmental control and independent living.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Carolyn Phillips

Friday 1:30-2:30

This hands-on workshop will explore over 50 assistive technology solutions that can be constructed in minutes using everyday tools and materials.  An assortment of tools and materials will be demonstrated including various types of  tapes, plastics, adhesives, fasteners, and tools for cutting, marking, heating and bending.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Support Files

iPad Holder
PVC Transformer
LocLine Solutions

Therese Willkomm

Wednesday 1:30-2:30

A continuation of Part I in exploring assistive technology solutions in minutes that can be constructed in minutes using every day tools and materials.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Support Files

iPad Holder
PVC Transformer
LocLine Solutions

Therese Willkomm

Wednesday 3:00-4:30

Assistive Technology offers hope for many individuals with learning disAbilities for living, learning, working and playing.  Just as each person with LD is different, their needs for AT are unique and are best addressed with a customized approach. This session will provide participants with opportunities to explore AT strategies and solutions that have worked to promote success at home, in school settings, in various work environments and with the many transitions that occur through life. Participants will grow in their knowledge of both light tech and high tech solutions including word prediction, screen reading, voice input, tablet technologies and Apps.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Carolyn Phillips

Friday 8:30-10:00

The influx of mobile devices available and affordable to all users presents a unique opportunity to the developers of Assistive Technologies.  With this opportunity come some unique challenges as well.  Learn how Texthelp Systems is committed to bringing enhanced Text-to-Speech technologies to your mobile device.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Martin McKay

Thursday 10:30-12:00

The influx of mobile devices available and affordable to all users presents a unique opportunity to the developers of Assistive Technologies.  With this opportunity come some unique challenges as well.  Learn how Texthelp Systems is committed to bringing enhanced Text-to-Speech technologies to your mobile device.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Martin McKay

Thursday 1:30-2:30

Using DBT WIN, and Microsoft Word with Math Type or Scientific Notebook, and QuickTac with a graphics tablet you will see and learn how easy it is to create braille for literary, math and graphical materials quickly on short notice. As well as transcriber quality output for tactile readers. DBT Win 11.1 supports braille translation for over 130 languages. It already works with NIMAS file and is compatible with MS Word & Excel files from Office 2010 and earlier versions. It can also handle Open Office Writer and Calc files as well as many other formats.

DBT NIMAS (orange paper)
DBT 11.1
DBT NIMAS (orange paper)

Neil Kunianksy

Friday 8:30-10:00

So much technology available for education, yet how do you make it play well together in your classroom? From iPods, iTouch and iPads to flash drives, scanners, Netbooks, and more, how do these devices work, what can you do with them, are they easy to use or accessible? Just because it’s new and cool, is it really a good fit to enhance the teaching and learning going on in your class?

Learn how Web 2.0 tools, digital tools for the classroom, including digital video devices, wireless tools and more, can make a difference in engagement, understanding and differentiating your curriculum. Discover how new tools from the Pulse Pen, the Canson PaperShow, LadiBug document cameras or iPod Nano’s that can capture movies or play back audio books can provide solutions for teaching, access, understanding, and communication.

Can’t be in 2 places at once? Learn how you can utilize an iPad and web conferencing tools to provide supports over multiple locations at the same time! How do you utilize inexpensive web cams or portable inexpensive camcorders such as the Flip throughout the day, and across the curriculum? Free software programs, web tools and educator resources and lesson plans provide with ideas and solutions for utilizing them in math, science, language arts and more.

Lecture/Demo format. Participants who bring laptops for some hands-on components must have administrator rights for the computer to install software programs, access web tools or download and install browser add-ons, however laptops are not required for the session. Participants will receive resource CD’s containing free software, lesson plan samples and more.

Dan Herlihy

Thursday 8:30-10:00

So much technology available for education, yet how do you make it play well together in your classroom? From iPods, iTouch and iPads to flash drives, scanners, Netbooks, and more, how do these devices work, what can you do with them, are they easy to use or accessible? Just because it’s new and cool, is it really a good fit to enhance the teaching and learning going on in your class?

Learn how Web 2.0 tools, digital tools for the classroom, including digital video devices, wireless tools and more, can make a difference in engagement, understanding and differentiating your curriculum. Discover how new tools from the Pulse Pen, the Canson PaperShow, LadiBug document cameras or iPod Nano’s that can capture movies or play back audio books can provide solutions for teaching, access, understanding, and communication.

Can’t be in 2 places at once? Learn how you can utilize an iPad and web conferencing tools to provide supports over multiple locations at the same time! How do you utilize inexpensive web cams or portable inexpensive camcorders such as the Flip throughout the day, and across the curriculum? Free software programs, web tools and educator resources and lesson plans provide with ideas and solutions for utilizing them in math, science, language arts and more.

Lecture/Demo format. Participants who bring laptops for some hands-on components must have administrator rights for the computer to install software programs, access web tools or download and install browser add-ons, however laptops are not required for the session. Participants will receive resource CD’s containing free software, lesson plan samples and more.

Dan Herlihy

Thursday 10:30-12:00

The world we exist in is full of challenges many do not even consider. Can I hear the timer go off? Can I feed a family with good food and meet the requirements of a special needs child at the same time? Can I put together a meal without turning on the oven or using a knife? Dietary worlds in the lives of people who experience disabilities can often revolve around safety, texture, accessibility and medicinal issues. But life can still revolve around great food. This session will touch lightly on a broad range of disabilities and tools to assist in food preparation.

Molly Ridout

Friday 3:00-4:30

Prevailing labor projections regarding the shortage of information technology (IT) professionals provide impetus for increasing computing-related majors. This NSF-funded project uses communication techniques that bode well with today’s Net generation college students—seniors write blogs to arouse freshman interest in computing. Another component consists of after-class sessions with IT professionals, a strategy that has proven effective in diversifying the image of computer scientists and engineers. Professionals typically represent the target population or speak about technologies that have improved the quality of life for special populations. The author will present the methodology and results of the project with time for discussion.

Anu Gokhale

Friday 8:30-10:00

Prevailing labor projections regarding the shortage of information technology (IT) professionals provide impetus for increasing computing-related majors. This NSF-funded project uses communication techniques that bode well with today’s Net generation college students—seniors write blogs to arouse freshman interest in computing. Another component consists of after-class sessions with IT professionals, a strategy that has proven effective in diversifying the image of computer scientists and engineers. Professionals typically represent the target population or speak about technologies that have improved the quality of life for special populations. The author will present the methodology and results of the project with time for discussion. Additionally, the author will address latest technological developments designed to empower students with disabilities and create an inclusive environment for all students.

Anu Gokhale

Friday 1:30-2:30

This workshop will teaches participants the basics in switch making; how to modify a switch; and effective switch mounting techniques that enable individuals who experience disabilities to participate in all life activities.

Therese Willkomm

Thursday 10:30-12:00

Assistive Technology has a high risk of failure.  This workshop will discuss and demonstrate how various types of foams, putty and wire can be used in creating assistive technology solutions through rapid prototyping techniques to determine if a solution will work.

Therese Willkomm

Thursday 1:30-2:30

This session provides hands-on practice creating computer fillable PDF forms that can be submitted by email with a focus on needs evaluation and usability testing.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Supplemental Materials

Sample accessible source
Budget forecast original
Budget forecast fillable_distribute
Budget forecast fillable_distributeemail_distributed
Budget forecast fillablepartial
Budget forecast fillable_complete
Budget forecast fillable_distributeemail_responses

Kaela Parks

Thursday 3:00-4:30

Accessible Print Materials help individuals with print disabilities access text at a much higher rate than without. Students with print disabilities will benefit from using text and textbooks in an electronic format on a wide variety of devices to increase their success rate in school. This short lecture will familiarize participants with the options and concepts for accessible print materials, including textbooks and other curricular print materials.

Rob LeFebvre

Thursday 1:30-2:30

Keeping track of clients, strategies, products and services delivered can be an overwhelming task in assistive technology service delivery. Come hear about some of the issues and strategies to consider in making plans for your agency or program.

Kelly Fonner/ Scott Marfilius

Friday 1:30-2:30

Job applicants and employees must be able to successfully perform the essential job functions which often involve sitting for long periods of time at a traditional workstation. Individuals who use wheelchairs often develop pressure sores. To treat pressure sores in the United States costs more than $1.5 billion yearly, (Revis, 2010). This instructional course will provide participants the opportunity to review and explore other alternative workstations when sitting is not an option. Participants will be involved in discussions of ergonomic working arrangements to protect health and provide greater productivity.

Job applicants and employees must be able to successfully perform the essential job functions which often involve sitting for long periods of time at a traditional workstation. Individuals who use wheelchairs often develop pressure sores. To treat pressure sores in the United States costs more than $1.5 billion yearly, (Revis, 2010). This instructional course will provide participants the opportunity to review and explore other alternative workstations when sitting is not an option. Participants will be involved in discussions of ergonomic working arrangements to protect health and provide greater productivity.

Many students have not achieved minimal levels of reading fluency. Research shows this negatively impacts ALL of their learning endeavors.  Texthelp Systems has developed Fluency Tutor a “cloud based” assessment tool that entices students and teachers to interact with this often tedious task anywhere/anytime increasing student achievement and educator.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

Martin McKay

Wednesday 3:00-4:30

Using a web 2.0 program called VizZle, learn how to engage a variety of ability levels and learning styles during group instruction. Whether inclusion with diverse learners, or a self-contained environment, differentiation can be difficult. Learn how to create lessons with opportunities to add enrichment and intervention to open doors for all learners. See how to add hotspots to books to level questions, and create playlists that allow you to swap out content for different students as they engage with the SmartBoard. Search for lessons that have been created that highlight differentiation for math, reading, activities of daily living.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

Lauren Stafford
Friday 10:30-12:00

Embedding language and literacy into a preschool curriculum immerses the child in an environment rich in language, concepts and motor activities. The activities are centered on a theme usually based on a favorite piece of children’s literature and uses a variety of visual materials to recreate the story in various ways. Activities are developed that introduce and/or reinforce vocabulary development, receptive language, expressive language, fine motor skills, basic cognitive skills, direction following and predicting . Although the theme-based method was developed to use with students with developmental delays, it is easily adapted for any preschool classroom. The presenter will present the structure of a theme-based unit, show ways to promote language and pre-literacy skills from the classroom to the home environment and help participants develop their own language and literacy embedded units.

Theresa Ryan

Friday 8:30-10:00

A JAN Principal Consultant will give an overview of how to accommodate an aging workforce, including steps to an inclusive process, available assistive technologies, and accommodation examples. This session will focus on accommodation ideas for aging workers who have hearing, vision, mobility, or cognitive impairments.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Beth Loy

Thursday 10:30-12:00

Today’s classrooms are more diverse than ever, which makes meeting the needs of learners who occupy them an increasingly difficult task. This interactive, fast-paced session will focus on using Universal Design for Learning as a framework to support teacher effectiveness and to assist in overcoming everyday obstacles that educators face.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Jason Carroll

Friday 1:30-2:30

This session highlights perspectives of individuals promoting web accessibility within state, educational, and private sector environments, focusing on efforts that are sustainable, collaborative, and cost-effective.

Supporting Documents
Panel_Web_Lean_Economic_Times.pdf
AccessComputingMinigrantApplication.pdf
AccessComputingTeamApplication.pdf

Kaela Parks/ Terrill Thompson

Thursday 10:30-12:00

Professional development in the field of Assistive Technology typically focuses on training adults how to operate software or devices. However, many obstacles exist when shifting the focus of training from operation to implementation. This session will demonstrate a variety of professional development solutions available to individuals and organizations to support the effective use of AT.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

Jason Carroll
Wednesday 1:30-2:30

Assistive technology (AT) opens up a world of possibilities and improves independence and productivity for individuals with disabilities. However, knowing what technology you want or need but not knowing where or how to pay for it is often a significant barrier. Individuals from other agencies will be available to share and answer questions.  Funding resources will be shared.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare
Presentation Notes 2 – Slideshare

Kathy Privratsky

Friday 3:00-4:30

Curious about using an iPad, iPod touch, or iPhone for within education? This introduction teaches you the differences between the devices, how to get the devices going, and some applications are good to use in the school setting. Insight will be given about successes and obstacles.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Shawn Bernard

Wednesday 3:00-4:30

This demonstration walks through a case study where a class of adult student with severe/profound disabilities bake pies for a school bake sale. It shows how to split an activity into it’s component parts and how to make these parts accessible through the use of low tech devices, partial participation and cuing.

Michelle Radin

Friday 3:00-4:30

Helps professionals see differences of what works to achieve web access in theory versus in practice. Provides meaningful examples of accessible and usable websites. Shows what works and what works well. Reviews the latest checklists and tools, and how the state and university are using them.

Kaela Parks, Kurt Savikko, Julie Sanbei, and Jason Burke

Friday 3:00-4:30

Get a handle on all the hardware accessories and connecting programs that turn your iDevices into a hub for teaching and learning. Learn what devices and programs allow you to broadcast a video in any format to all the iPods/iPads in a classroom, how to utilize and what apps are switch accessible, getting images and movies in/out, alternate styluses, Bluetooth science probes, wifi digital microscopes and more.

Dan Herlihy

Wednesday 1:30-2:30

How often do you hear the expression “there’s an app for that!” Well, for the most part it’s true. With over 35,000 apps and counting where do you start?! This session will explore apps from a variety of categories including Reading, Writing, Communicating, Drawing, Music, Switch Accessible, Organization, Broadcasting, QR Codes, Autism and more. Demonstrations, reviews and more!

Dan Herlihy

Friday 8:30-10:00

iPads are amazing tools, and can even be used for visual supports in the classroom and the home. This session will highlight a few applications that can be utilized. Feel free to bring your own device to try some of these out.

Shawn Benard

Thursday 3:00-4:30

Such useful tools, so easy to use! However, how do you get images in without using iPhoto, or get files in to read such as PDF, Doc or Text files? Learn how you can work on those files and save them back to your computer. Learn how to work with applications that can convert text to MP3 files to play back on them, text to speech programs that run on them, applications then run on them to create photo slide shows that you can add narration to and export back to your computer. Applications to convert your own digital movies to run on them, import them onto the devices, and more…see it in action!

iPads, iPods and iTouch’s are common place devices in today’s society. They have unlimited potential to address educational needs in today’s classrooms! From portable information, educational activities, programs for access to text, or for communication, there’s an app for that!

Educators need to know 3 key things. How to get files, from text, sound, movie or image files into the devices, what programs will allow them to work with the files, or play them back, and how to get files created on the devices back onto a computer. This workshop will address those issues in a lecture/demo format.

Participants will learn how to convert movies created with portable digital camcorders such as the Flip to MP4 files, then how to import them into the devices for playback. They will learn what programs can convert text files to MP3 audio files, and how to import them onto the devices for playback. They will also learn how to get text and image files into iPod Touch and iPads, work with the files, and export them back to the computer.

There are many other applications that allow students to create and narrate slide shows from imported images, have built in text to speech to read aloud text files, allow students to brainstorm then write, and more. However, without understanding the basics of how to transfer files back and forth they become a “closed” device capable of only running what was initially installed on them.

Once users understand the process, the potential as a teaching and learning tool is unlocked.

Dan Herlihy

Friday 3:00-4:30

Learn how to utilize apps for note taking, organization, scheduling, homework and assignment tracking, assignment prompting apps, word processing, file storage, document sharing and more! Keep track of student progress, assign work and monitor your students progress.

Dan Herlihy

Wednesday 3:00-4:30

Our presentation will focus on the use of mainstream technology as a platform for assistive technology, showing how the need for several different devices can be alleviated the use of smart phones and/or tablets.  We will be demonstrating several apps to assist in such areas as navigation, item, color, and money identification, and magnification.

Terrence vanEttinger/ Chad Hobert

Friday 10:30-12:00

Use high-speed internet to reach people using adaptive technology in remote locations. We will demonstrate how a trainer can use high speed internet to give personal assistance, problem solve, or teach new features to clients in remote locations. Cut down on travel costs serving more people for less money.

Gayle Yarnall

Thursday 1:30-2:30

A JAN Principal Consultant will review workplace accommodation examples for employees with all types of disabilities. Calling upon the results of an ongoing study of 1,548 employers who contacted JAN, this session provides information on accommodation benefits/costs, successful accommodations, and ways to integrate low and high tech accommodations that enhance the productivity of employees with disabilities and help with compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Beth Loy

Thursday 8:30-10:00

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

From recording lectures to adapting books, the Pulse (Echo) Pen can be utilized to add sound to printed communication boards or books, used by educators to record their lecture/class session to be posted for student access later, create study guides for lessons and much more. Learn how to export files, utilize in a variety of class settings, situations and environments.

Dan Herlihy

Thursday 1:30-2:30

Adobe’s Portable Document Format (PDF) has included accessibility support since Acrobat version 5.0 was released in 2001. However, ten years later, very few PDF files are accessible. This can be attributed in part to poor support for accessibility among PDF authoring tools, but also to a lack of awareness among authors. This session is for the latter group. It will cover the basics on how to create accessible PDF’s step-by-step using Microsoft Word, and how to add accessibility to inaccessible PDF’s using Adobe Acrobat.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Terrill Thompson

Thursday 3:00-4:30

Video is everywhere. But most of it is inaccessible. In order to be fully accessible, video must address the needs of individuals who are unable to hear (captions), unable to see (audio description), unable to do either (transcript), and unable to operate the media player (choosing an accessible player). This session will provide an all-encompassing overview of the current state of video accessibility, including a look at free tools that support captioning and audio description, a comparison of various media players on accessibility, and an examination of accessibility features in the draft HTML5

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Terrill Thompson

Wednesday 1:30-2:30

This session will provide an overview of how Microsoft supports accessibility as well as how we work with our partners to provide the right type of solution for the different user’s needs. At Microsoft we are committed to continually working on improving accessibility for all users as we develop world class products.  As Bill Gates has said:
“Our vision is to create innovative technology that is accessible to everyone and that adapts to each person’s needs.  Accessible technology eliminates barriers for people with disabilities and it enables individuals to take full advantage of their capabilities.”

Debra Kennedy

Thursday 3:00-4:30

This session will provide an overview of how Microsoft supports accessibility as well as how we work with our partners to provide the right type of solution for the different user’s needs. At Microsoft we are committed to continually working on improving accessibility for all users as we develop world class products.  As Bill Gates has said:
“Our vision is to create innovative technology that is accessible to everyone and that adapts to each person’s needs.  Accessible technology eliminates barriers for people with disabilities and it enables individuals to take full advantage of their capabilities.”

Debra Kennedy

Friday 10:30-12:00

Mobile devices such as the iPad and iPod Touch are quickly becoming the most popular devices available. Unfortunately simply placing one or more of these devices in a classroom does not always equate to an increase in achievement. This session will look at strategies and resources that will help educators get the most out of mobile devices in the classroom.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Jason Carroll

Thursday 8:30-12:00

The struggle for accessibility is becoming an expectation in all aspects of daily life. The wish has become a reality and the reality can be a rubics cube if you are not familiar with how change in accessibility is intended to take place. This session will feature one of the leading experts on the old ADA standards discussing the practical realities of compliance for the 21st century. In other words how to use the access standards to “create a game you can win!”

Don Brandon

Friday 1:30-2:30

The NFB of Alaska offers solutions to the problems that many blind persons encounter in the sighted world, ranging from educational barriers, to employment discriminations, and to everyday independent living problems. The NFB offers a number of solutions, not only for the blind, but for the family members, and for the parents of the blind of all ages. The real problem of blindness is not the loss of eyesight. The real problem is the misunderstanding and lack of information that exist. If a blind person has proper training and opportunity, blindness can be reduced to a physical nuisance.

Bill Packee

Friday 1:30-2:30

Discuss challenges and opportunities inherent in online applications and social media for people with disabilities. Explore accessible and inaccessible features on third-party websites like Twitter and Facebook. Discuss how this relates to basic web accessibility standards and what to watch out for when procuring technologies and developing websites.

Julie Sanbei and Kaela Parks

Thursday 1:30-2:30

Attend this demonstration to understand how Read&Write GOLD, award-winning literacy software, provides access to all curriculum for all learners within the classroom and at home.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Maureen Doherty

Friday 8:30-10:00

This presentation focuses on the various ways AT can be obtained for students with disabilities and transition age youth.  Specifically, we will discuss how to ensure that AT needs are documented in the IEP process and where AT services can be written into an IEP.  We will also discuss how AT services and devices can be obtained through Medicaid and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.  This presentation is appropriate for anyone wanting to learn more about how to formal the use of AT or obtain needed AT devices during childhood through age 21.

Meg Zaletel

Friday 10:30-12:00

See how and how not to “tag” and use semantics before publishing online. Identifies quirks in some software programs and how to work around them to prevent browser failings. Learn how color choices affect accessibility when used for text, backgrounds, images, etc. Make materials come alive for the user’s needs rather than presenting barriers. Review basics of the color spectrum, deficiencies, and contrast, and apply them to accepted standards and tools. Additionally, this session will examine image sizes and formats that cause issues and access for end-users.

Kurt Savikko and Julie Sanbei

Thursday 3:00-4:30

During this session we will present the features of a wide variety of portable and software based organizers for academic, tasks and behavioral supports for students, children and adults. It will be a fast-paced time of both live and demonstrations and images of the products. A resource list will be shared.

Kelly Fonner/Scott Marfilius

Thursday 8:30-10:00

Accessibility on a variety of levels is a foundation for successful job placement and retention of people with visual impairments. The Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired takes a team approach to support that success and includes:
·         locating and working with an employer to ensure a well-suited placement,
·         conducting an assessment of and making recommendations for practical assistive technology which is compatible with the employer’s current system,
·         evaluating optical devices such as magnifiers that would complement and augment the recommended assistive technology,
·         planning and implement routes to and from the employer’s location, and
·         providing Orientation and Mobility “wayfinding” to become familiar with the facility layout.
This team approach in which the client and the employer are considered partners along with Center staff creates opportunities for ongoing successful job placement for people with visual impairments.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Penny Armstrong / Josetta Cranston / Chad Hobert

Wednesday 1:30-2:30

In this review of the literature, practical applications of technology to assess and chronicle student learning were sought, considerations for successful technology integration for individuals with special needs were described, and the versatility of technology as an assessment tool was discussed. It was found that collaboration with others and frequent support for exceptional learners who use technology is paramount to successful implementation in educational and other settings. Despite legislation designed to put assistive technology in the hands of those who need it, funding, training, and support issues are often cited as barriers to successful technology integration for this population. Sometimes assistive technologies are abandoned for these reasons also.

Documents
http://www.slideshare.net/secret/hrTNMjKzTNzwYJ
http://www.slideshare.net/secret/t5G039kGN0lPsw
http://www.slideshare.net/secret/3RXibQOyyyy5t
http://www.slideshare.net/secret/3mva9SNhukB1VU
http://www.slideshare.net/secret/4V402se3X1vLWz
http://www.slideshare.net/secret/uwbVq7MpsIqzks
http://www.slideshare.net/secret/zCLGpdiE2p0X2Y

MaryJane Hadaway

Friday 1:30-2:30

If you’re like most people today, the word “Apps” has become part of your everyday language and routine. In fact, while most everyone uses some sort of App to accomplish their personal and professional activities, keeping up with new development of Apps can be quite overwhelming. There are at least 200 new Apps released everyday, with a fraction created specifically for people with disabilities. Apps, whether on an iPad, iPod Touch, Xoom, Playbook or Galaxy, provide an easier route for daily tasks. This session will cover the accessibility features of these emerging technologies as well as share a few favorite Apps that can assist individuals with disabilities. Participates will also see the new Tools for Life Apps & Widgets Database! This database makes searching for disability related Apps significantly easier.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Carolyn Phillips

Friday 3:00-4:30

Acquiring assistive technology is often easier than getting these tools implemented in the school setting. During this session we will present the considerations and initial strategies for insuring that investments in assistive technologies have a positive outcome in the school setting.

Kelly Fonner/ Scott Marfilius

Wednesday 1:30-2:30

This workshop will teaches participants the basics in switch making; how to modify a switch; and effective switch mounting techniques that enable individuals who experience disabilities to participate in all life activities.

Therese Willkomm

Thursday 8:30-10:00

Explore a variety of tools that strengthen the area of reading, which include phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency and text comprehension. Participants will receive and toolkit resource bank that lists possible tools to explore.

Kelly Fonner/ Scott Marfilius

Thursday 10:30-12:00

Explore a variety of tools that strengthen area of the writing process, which include graphomotor, attention, memory, language, and higher order thinking. Participants will receive a toolkit resource bank that lists possible tools to explore.

Kelly Fonner/ Scott Marfilius

Thursday 3:00-4:30

Join us in a discussion of tips that will assist you, the trainer, in getting individuals started with technology. Participants will reflect on current practices and determine what areas they may want to change.

Kelly Fonner/ Scott Marfilius

Thursday 1:30-2:30

Learn about JAN’s no-cost resources for employers on the Americans with Disabilities Act, assessing essential job functions, and how to ensure accessible workplaces. Learn how JAN can help you expand your resources when solving job accommodation situations. In addition, learning best practices from JAN will improve attendee response time and success rate when confronted with difficult job accommodation situations.

Slideshare Presentation Notes

Beth Loy

Friday 10:20-12:00

This workshop will provide an overview of the activities and exciting updates from the Pass It On Center. Participants will receive information regarding the National AT Reuse Network and learn how to connect with this emerging movement to obtain AT. We will also provide resource information for those who want to begin a reuse program or make significant improvements in an existing program. Using the promising practices identified in the Indicators of Quality for Assistive Technology Reuse (IQ-ATR) and in the Pass It On Knowledge Base, participants will explore the At Reuse process. We will also discuss the growing and important role of AT Reuse in Emergency Management.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Carolyn Phillips

Thursday 10:30-12:00

In an economy where financial resources are limited, individuals may want to explore a variety of resources that are low cost or free. These may be solutions you explore as part of a trial to determine what you need, or they may become solutions that meet your needs.

Kelly Fonner/ Scott Marfilius

Friday 3:00-4:30

To create and maintain a universally designed and usable workplace requires that we address the needs of a diverse group of employees, including people with disabilities. The Principles of Universal Design can guide the design of environments, processes, policies, technologies and tools to facilitate the integration of all employees in the workplace. Universal Design also has the potential to optimize productivity, safety, collaboration and communication for all employees. A universally designed workplace could potentially eliminate the need for specialized accommodations and also provide a safer and more productive environment for all employees. Methods for applying the principles of universal design will be learned through examples of job accommodations for employees with disabilities.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Barney Fleming

Wednesday 1:30-2:30

Successful employment of individuals with cognitive impairments depends on finding the right tools to bridge the gap between their needs and their opportunities. This session will help highlight technology that can successfully accommodate individuals with these limitations by providing information accommodation and assistive technology options.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Beth Loy

Thursday 3:00-4:30

This session shows how to create accessible video using tools within Camtasia such as screen capture, imported media, voice narration with voice recognition, and captioning.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Supplemental Files

• First Walkthrough: Basics of Camtasia Studio 7
• Camtasia Studio Hotkeys & Shortcuts
• Creating Subtitle Files
• Media Caption Overview

Kaela Parks

Wednesday 3:00-4:30

A variety of free or inexpensive student response software solutions from free apps that turn your iPod into a classroom response clicker, sending the answers directly to your computer, to web based forms students can fill in from anywhere. This session will be showing how to use either iPods, iPods, iPhone, Netbooks, Laptops and computers along with all many free programs that allow you to “push” your quiz, question or poll to your students who might all be utilizing a variety of different devices, then how and where the responses can be captured, graphed and graded!

Dan Herlihy

Friday 1:30-2:30

Using leading edge technology called VizZle to individualize curriculum for students with autism makes the innovations forecasted for 21st century learning in general education a current reality in special education. Learn how individualized visual language meets the needs of the autistic learner, and how adapting curriculum into a visual format engages the strengths of the autistic student, improving both outcomes and behavior. Explore accessing the efficiencies of web 2.0 sharing, both on a micro level within a teaching team and on a macro level by leveraging the expertise of the community of teachers that specialize in content for autistic learners.

Presentation Notes – SlideShare

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

Lauren Stafford
Thursday 8:30-10:00

Universal Design for Learning assist individuals acquiring, engaging and expressing information. Come explore strategies that will assist you in better working with the students and clients you serve.

Kelly Fonner/ Scott Marfilius

Wednesday 3:00-4:30

Freedom Scientific Learning Systems Group presents WYNN, a robust, literacy software program that can assist anyone who struggles with reading, regardless of age. The program can be personalized to meet the individual accommodations of the user and is regarded as the most user-friendly software of its type. WYNN can import content from any source, both hard copy and electronic, as well as access and read the internet. WYNN 6, released in 2011, provides advances including access to mathematics, high-speed, portable scanning, and expanded forms of content presentation allowing even greater flexibility without sacrificing any of the ease of use WYNN is noted for.

Presentation Notes – Slideshare

Steve Boyle

Thursday 8:30-10:00

Learn how to work with video from portable camcorders such as the Flip, how to edit, and convert for use on other platforms such as an iPod Touch, iPad, or in educational applications from PowerPoint, to Clicker 5 and more. Some applications don’t always play back video in the format your camera is saving it in. Learn what programs can be used to convert video to various formats, and even add captioning. Shoot it once, use it in many environments! Basic tips, where to find free applications, and more for the beginner. Both Macintosh and PC Platforms addressed.

Dan Herlihy

Friday 10:30-12:00