Hot Topics: Autism and Assistive Technology

Issue: Volume 1, Issue 2
Date: November 2005
Written By: The SWAAAC Professional Development Committee

Welcome to the Hot Topics section of the web site. Here you will find timely information of topics related to assistive technology. It is designed to serve the needs of SWAAAC Team members and those who benefit from their services. The information in this section is categorized according to the topics listed in the "Table of Contents" below. Either scroll down the page or click the links to go straight to the desired heading for information on a specific topic.

Please feel free to send comments, requests, or additions to the advisory committee in care of Maureen Melonis.

Table of Contents:

Topic of Discussion:

Autism Spectrum Disorder and Assistive Technology

Autism Spectrum Disorder (A.S.D.) and assistive technology are not usually thought of as a partnership, but many technologies are effective at improving the daily functioning and learning for children with autism. The purpose of this issue of “Hot Topics in AT” is to explore a variety of assistive technology applications which can assist with the unique communication and social issues presented by A.S.D.

Cool Ideas and Resources:

This section highlights an immediately useable device or piece of info to increase the level of expertise of SWAAAC members. The highlights below feature four useful products to increase use of assistive technology for children with autism and autism spectrum disorder. AT for schools; Polyxo resource for parents, Priorywoods educational activities, and do2learn. These are just a few ideas and resources which may be helpful.

  • www.cesa7.k12.wi.us/sped/autism/assist/asst10.htm - This site is specific to the use of technology with autism. There are descriptions (and pictures) of low, medium, and high tech strategies that can be used to access skill areas such as organization, attending, self-help, following rules, and modifying behavior.
  • www.polyxo.com - Polyxo.com is a resource for parents, professionals, or anyone interested in teaching children with autism or other related developmental disorders. Polyxo.com was developed by Jason Wallin to encompass a variety of instructional techniques and philosophies.
  • www.priorywoods.middlesbrough.sch.uk - This site is not exclusive to autism, however it contains a wealth of activities that can be downloaded or accessed directly on-line. The activities have been designed for use by a single switch, keyboard, mouse, or touch-screen. This site has activities for all ages, from early childhood to high school that can be used immediately.
  • www.do2learn.com - A website providing activities to promote independence in children and adults with special learning needs. There are interactive games, including social skill development activities that can be used by students or teachers with access to the web. (Activities may not work with switches.)

Autism Websites To Explore

These are some of the SWAAAC members favorite internet sites. Check out a few, they are awesome!

  • www.autismcolorado.org - This site is for parents and service providers with information about conferences, links, funding, studies, and Medicaid information updates specific to Colorado residents.
  • www.aboard.org - This site is mainly for parents, however it has great links for service providers. This site is located in Pittsburgh, PA and so some of the information is specific to Pennsylvania.
  • http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/ - Oasis-Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support

Training and Professional Development Opportunities

A Colorado Department of Education (CDE) link for trainings, information and eligibility - www.cde.state.co.us/cdesped/SD-Autism.asp

Educating Students With Autism (Video Conference)
Presented by Melinda Graham, CDE
November 7, 2005-1:00-3:00pm

A copy of the video from Melinda Graham's training is available for loan to all SWAAAC team members through the SWAAAC loan bank. Contact your local team coordinator to help you borrow the tape.

 

The SWAAAC Conference conference logo

This annual regional AT conference will be held June 8-10, 2006 and will feature several sessions on AT and autism. Follow the links below to learn more about the conference. (these pages no longer available).

  • Main conference page
  • Autism and Assistive Technology Preconference Session

SWAAAC Professional Development Committee: Maxine Anderson, Tami Cassel, Alison Montana and Maureen Melonis.