More Resources for iPad/iPod Apps

The people at AAC TechConnect have a great summary sheet on their website listing over 100 communication apps.  These are listed by pictures and text.  The challenge is separating out the good apps from the not so good ones.  Many app developers have created apps that let you take a photo and use a voice, or provide symbols for use with speech.  It takes a real evaluator with knowledge and experience in AAC techniques to wade through the many apps and find the ones that provide enough language and flow for communication use.  While  those at the basic choice-making or cause effect levels may benefit from any of the many apps that pair a photo with voice, individuals in need of a variety of language structures, lots of vocabulary options, and the ability to combine symbols for phrases need a more sophisticated system.   Keep this in mind as you consider apps for communication use.

Back to School with Technology

 

New backpacks, binders,  a lunchbox and a pack of #2 pencils used to be the hallmark of school supply lists.  Tech savvy students add mobile technology to that list.  Cell phones (even a regular ole' cell phone that doesn't have apps) can help students stay organized.  The camera feature can be used to capture classroom assignments or a 20 second video of the teacher doing a math problem example.  The notes  and audio recorder features can be used to record information.  

 iPods, iPads  and other tablets offer numerous options for organization, schedules, and educational support.  Fall is also the time to check the vocabulary in the augmentative communication devices of your students - make sure the ages, names of friends/teachers, and personal data is current.  If the student has transitioned from elementary to middle school or middle school to high school look at the language and make sure it is age appropriate.  While it sounds cute to hear a preschool say "yucky" it sounds off for a teenager.

So, as you head back to school think about the way technology can play a role in helping your students be organized.  As for me, I am going to see if I can find my old Smurf lunchbox - what goes around, comes around!

Hamilton County Autism Support Group

The weather really came through yesterday for the Hamilton County Autism Support Group Race and Motorcycle Run. Despite what started out as cloudy sprinkles, it was a sunny day for all those who came out to participate. There were many vendors sharing resources and services for families as well as fun activities for kids. Walkers, runners, bikers, trikers, riders in wagons and other wheeled vehicles participated in the race. It was great to share information about simple assistive technology devices and strategies with others. Thanks to all who stopped by our booth. I even found myself talking to one of my former clients whom I worked with to help develop his augmentative communication system when he 7!  He's 30 years old now and very accomplished. I am really proud of this young man and it reminds me what an honor it is to be a part of people's lives.

The First 'Appy Hour

Tonight was the first 'Appy Hour and it was great fun!  Over food and drinks at Kona Jacks we talked about ways to use built-in apps like Notes, Maps, and the Clock.    We also went through the settings menus and talked about using Spotlight search and emailing information to yourself using the Notes app. Attendees were amazed to see all the ways that they can use the camera - from taking photos of receipts, your license plate, items at home for insurance purposes, the location of where you parked your car and more.  One of the my newest finds is the Keyring app- take a photo of your rewards card barcode and get rid of all those cards on your key ring.

More fun apps, food and drinks are waiting for you at the next 'Appy Hour - join us at Kona Jacks, 96th and Meridian Street - Indianapolis - Tuesdays in June 5-6 PM.  $30.00 per session.

Summer Fun

With summer finally here it's time to stop and smell the roses!  Of course, those of us who are technology junkies simply bring up a photo of flowers on our iPad, take a whiff, and move on.  Join me for summer trainings to jump start your new school year.  The Assistive Technology For Struggling Students Summer trainings will be great - I've wrangled several of my outstanding colleagues into sharing their knowledge with us.  We still have spots open so it's not too late to register. Also, I will be running a social group for anyone who wants to learn more about using their iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad - it is called 'Appy Hour - and it will be Tuesdays in June from 5-6 PM at Kona Jacks, 96th and Meridian Street, Indpls.  Learn new ways to use your iDevices while having fun with friends.  For additional information and fees, email me at beth@bethwaitetech.com

Now, I'm off to plant a virtual garden on my iPad.......