Tools for Assessment of American Sign Language
Review of different aspects of American Sign Language (ASL) production. Participants will gain an understanding of specific ASL features, including syntax, non-manual markers, and signing space. A tool will be shared that will assist in assessing the student’s ability and developing goals and a plan to support each student’s sign language development. The length of this workshop varies, depending on the need of the audience, and can include basic information or in-depth application and practice.
Thinking Outside the Box: Assessment Tips and Tools for Young Children Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
Discussion of components that should be considered when assessing young children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Highlighting important team members, ideas for information gathering (informal and formal), how to analyze/interpret data collected, and strategies for transitioning data collected into meaningful Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) outcomes and Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals.
Assistive Technology 101 or Customized Trainings
Assistive Technology solutions for students who are deaf, hard of hearing or deafblind continue to evolve at a rapid pace. These trainings are designed to bring the latest information to you. Outreach staff are available to provide trainings for teachers, educational audiologists, interpreters and support staff as well as for families and students. Assistive Technology trainings can range from a basic overview to in-depth information about a specific need your school or students have identified. The opportunity for a hands-on training in assistive technology solutions can be a valuable tool for you and your students.
Cochlear Implants 101
A basic in-service for staff or students related to cochlear implants. Information about the technology and how it works and what makes it unique will be shared along with some tips to support inclusion. This in-service can benefit districts, individual schools, or classrooms that are new to serving students who use cochlear implants.
Early Intervention for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children: How Data is Driving the Train
Review of the current research regarding the effectiveness of early intervention. This presentation will analyze the language outcomes of children and families that have participated in quality intervention services/programming, identify components of “quality” early intervention services/programming, and discuss areas of emerging research, and how early intervention services are integrating this research into current programming.
Implementing Hearing Screenings
Designed to provide participants with an overview of Hearing Screening and its many components. A review of hearing loss statistics, anatomy/physiology, testing methods, and screening principles will be provided. Hints and suggestions will be provided to help your hearing screening programs run smoothly. This presentation is typically 1.5 hours in length but can be adapted depending on needs and potential inclusion of a hands-on component.
What’s in your cabinet: Listening and Spoken Language Activities
Intended for individuals or teams that want to learn more about the progression of auditory skill development and how to implement listening and spoken language activities into their programs. This is a hands-on opportunity to learn how to adapt the materials individuals may already have into effective listening and spoken language activities. The progression of listening skill development will be used to demonstrate the “new” use of material.
Pressing Issues for Mental Health Providers
Mental Health providers, such as social workers, school psychologists, and counselors will learn the unique issues that students who are deaf or hard of hearing face when receiving mental health services. Communication barriers, cultural sensitivity, boundaries, social skills, and other issues will be discussed. This knowledge will help participants provide the best and appropriate services to students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Social-Emotional Development/Issues for Students Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
This presentation highlights the unique developmental milestones for a deaf or hard of hearing student, which are different from a hearing student. Educators, interpreters, pupil service staff, parents, and administrators may benefit from learning how certain obstacles, such as communication barriers, can contribute to a deaf or hard of hearing child’s social development during the school years. Participants will also learn how to address unique issues that deaf or hard of hearing children may face, such as weak social skills and low self-esteem.
Working with Students Who are Deafblind
Did you know that deafblindness is its own disability; that it is more than just deafness + blindness? Did you know that children identified with deafblindness may or may not meet state eligibility criteria for hearing impairment and/or visual impairment? Deafblindness can be a confusing and misunderstood disability that can impact global development. Topics that may be in an in-service training may include, but are not limited to: identification, impact of deafblindness, communication, behavior, literacy, resources, and accessibility.