Creative Communication: Autism & Technology

Course Description: Autism has always been identified with communication difficulties. When technology is implemented effectively, it can provide support in all four areas of communication: speaking, listening, reading and writing. An understanding of key ways to introduce technology can provide the means to successful engagement with all types of learning activities. This workshop will explore the powerful opportunities that technology has to offer and highlight practical strategies and solutions.

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify key issues preventing effective communication in all four areas (speaking, listening, reading, & writing) and explore accommodations for teaching and learning.
• Learn how to utilize technology to offer people with Autism a voice.
• Explain how to strengthen creative, visual and problem solving skills.
• Identify websites, apps, and low tech supports to improve outcomes.
• Explore the emotional impact of disabilities and the impact on learning with a focus on sensory needs and self-regulation.
• Consider issues surrounding the positivity & vulnerability of young people with Autism online.

Presenter: Carol Allen is an education advisor for Information and Communication Technology for Inclusion in the United Kingdom. Carol was named one of the top ten educators for 2018 in the field of educational technology by the UK parliament. She has provided workshops and keynote presentations in Denmark, Geneva, ATIA Florida, FETC (Florida and Miami) Riyadh, BETT, Birmingham, Manchester, London and Australia.

Carol has taught students of all ages with multiple learning challenges. She recognizes that communication lies at the heart of all effective teaching and centers her work on creative and engaging use of technology to support struggling learners. She works in partnership with many companies in the educational technology field as she holds a strong belief in collaboration in order to maximize the potential opportunities for her students.

Target Audience: Educators, Service Providers, Assistive Technology Specialists, Parents/Caregivers, College Students

CEU's: Approved for 6.0 hours by the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Occupational Therapy and Kentucky Board of Licensure for Speech Language Pathology & Audiology