Free Member Webinars

The AGOSCI Free Member Webinar series is designed to promote skills and knowledge about AAC across all sectors of the Australian community.  

All webinars in our member series are free to attend for AGOSCI members only.

Log in to register for live webinars, or to access past webinar recordings.
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Upcoming Webinars

58. April 8 - Genetic conditions and loss of communication skills - Where does AAC fit? Presented by Lottie Morison

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57. March 26 - The Communication Capability Approach: embedding consumer choice into device recommendations. - Presented by Dr. Andy Smidt and Chloe Wine - FULL

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Webinar Recording Archive

(To access actual recordings, members must be logged into their member account, and visit the member webinar page)

56. Avaz AAC: an overview - Presented by CEO Narayanan Ramakrishnan

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55. Eye-gaze control technology opportunities and service provision: Perspectives of people with cerebral palsy and their communication partners - Presented by Sonia Elliot, Avril Parry, and Margaret Wallen
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54. Voiceitt2 Spontaneous Speech Recognition technology for Non-Standard Speakers - Presented by Rachel Levy
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53. AAC: A journey that takes a lifetime - Presented by Joseph Reynolds
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52. AAC: A powerful tool - Presented by Sid Chandran
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51. Mint slice genius! Nell's tales of the cheeky human spirit! - Presented by Nell McMillan
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50. Tips for people who use AAC - Presented by Dale Gonelli
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49. How can communication supports help people who do not speak to build relationships - Presented by Sheree Henley and Harriet Korner
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48. ISAAC Cancun conference reflections and learning - Presented by Jenna O'Brien and Kylie Barsby
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47. Parent coaching for successful implementation of AAC in the early years - Presented by Sam Brydon
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46. Tools2Talk Now: Communication aids made easy - presented by Scope Australia
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45. Rule your iPad with your eyes and Hiru eye-tracker - Presented by IRISBOND and Novita
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44. Creativity and connection: using creative arts to foster relationships and connection - Presented by Claire Fraser
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43. What words do we use to talk about AAC? Survey results - Presented by Alyssa Hillary Zisk and Meredith Prain
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42. AAC Space - Presented by Noah Callan
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41. Impaired speech and ableism: An exploration of the meanings constructed around coherent speech - Presented by Lesley Champion
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40. Connect Play Learn; Including a relationship-focus in early childhood interventions - Presented by Dr Jacqui Barfoot
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39. Assessing mental health in young people with complex communication needs - Presented by Jacinta Pennacchia
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38. AAC Therapy for Non-Verbal Children With ASD - What Works For Whom and Why - Presented by Dr Stephi Sievers
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37. Cosmos Connect: Beyond Assistive Communication - What is next? Presented by Alex and Annette of Control Bionics.
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36. EMG and Spatial Technology for AAC. What is it? - Presented by Alex and Annette of Control Bionics.
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35. Inclusive Education for People with Complex Communication Needs. What do we know? What do we want to know? - Presented by Phoebe Lehmann and Dr Abi Thirumanickam.
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34. Individualising AAC Systems for Diverse Needs - Presented by Dr Amarie Carnett.
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33. Fostering  Autistic wellbeing through the Neurodiversity Paradigm - Presented by Katrina and Kat of Bridges Learning.
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32. The view of an AAC user - Presented by Noah Callan.
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31. Building an AAConnect Community - Presented by Jenna O'Brien.
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30. AAC competencies from coursework into practice - Presented by Ruyi Tong and Abigail Lewis
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29. "The best PD we've ever had" - What we learned from creating, refining, and delivering an AAC workshop series for parents and carers - Presented by Megan Walsh and Caitie Mitchell
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28. Autonomy in Decision Making (AiDEM): A summary of the key learning and resources from the project - Presented by Ashley Harling  Click here for more info

27. Improving Communication Access in Mental Health Support. How Can We Help? - Presented by Eleanor Watson 
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26. Family, Friendships and Autonomy for the Future - Presented by Hannah Gutke 
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25. Connection, Isolation, and Online Life in Lockdown - Presented by Siobhan Daley 
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24. Exploring the spoken language development of school-aged children on the Autism Spectrum with minimal verbal language - Presented by Lauren Davis
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23. International perspectives on Easy English and Easy Read: What do we need to know? - Presented by Cathy Basterfield

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22. SPA x AGOSCI: Considerations for AAC Assessment in the World of NDIS (Webinar #3): AGOSCI (in collaboration with LifeTec Queensland) and Speech Pathology Australia are pleased to bring you the final part of this 3 Part Webinar Series on AAC and the NDIS.

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21. Moving beyond object requesting for AAC users with ASD: What does the research say? - Presented by Kristy Logan

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20. SPA x AGOSCI: Considerations for AAC Assessment in the World of NDIS: AGOSCI (in collaboration with LifeTec Queensland) and Speech Pathology Australia are pleased to bring you Part 2 of this 3 Part Webinar Series on AAC and the NDIS.

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19. I Have A Dream For Communication - AGOSCI Conference Keynote Presentation 2019 - Presented by Joey Harrall

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18. Encouraging the promotion of long-term AAC use: learning from social identity theory - Presented by Ruyi Tong

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17. "How do I need to be in order to be with you?": Supporting adults with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities - Presented by Dr Sheridan Forster

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15. Finding your way with AAC AT provision in the NDIS: A joint collaboration between AGOSCI and Speech Pathology Australia

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14. Online therapy: making the most of technology to support AAC users and people with complex communication needs - Presented by Edward Johnson

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13. Implementing music therapy and AAC in a lower resourced setting - Presented by Kylie Hinde and Farhin Chowdhury

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12. Using AAC to give evidence in court and tribunal hearings - Presented by Fiona Given

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10. What’s in a Voice? An overview of message banking and voice banking - Presented by Peta Booth, Speech Pathologist from LifeTec Australia

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9. Communication assistants: What strategies do they use in conversation with people who have Down syndrome, Retts syndrome or Cerebral Palsy? - Presented by Dr Jane Remington-Gurney 

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8. Assessment and AAC - Where do we start? What am I looking for? - Presented by Janelle Sampson

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7. Achieving Functional Communication Through Minspeak - Presented by Siobhan Daley

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6. AAC and the NDIS - Surfing the Waves of Change - Presented by Gail Bennell

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5. Championing Communication Access for All - Presented by Barbara Solarsh & Georgia Burn

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4. How I Became an AAC Communicator - Presented by Nick Bradbury

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3. Being Part of the AACtion - Presented by Fiona Given

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2. RECORDING OF OPENING CEREMONY AND FIRST KEYNOTE SPEAKER FROM 2017 AGOSCI CONFERENCE - Cathy Binger: Towards Cohesive Language Development in AAC.

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1. What is AAC and What does it really look like? - Presented by Janelle Sampson

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 1. Janelle Sampson - What is AAC, and what does it look like?  

Presented 17th February 2017. The first thing to know about AAC is what it should look like. Without knowing where you are heading, it’s often hard to prioritise the multitude of individualised considerations that you will need to make as you start or continue along the learning curve. It’s important to know what real and functional communication with AAC looks like, and also what it doesn’t look like. 

This first seminar in our series of ‘An Introduction to AAC’ will provide participants with examples and stories highlighting the use of augmentative and/or alternative modes for interaction, conversation, learning and participation. It will introduce participants to the variety of ways the messages can be conveyed from different types of technology or non-technology, to various access methods and environments. Without knowing what it looks like, how can we start a journey ourselves, or recommend appropriate supports for our clients. To quote Stephen Covey who wrote ‘7 habits of highly effective people’, we must begin with the end in mind.

The seminar will also discuss some simple strategies to get started, and the role of various players within that process i.e. The person using AAC, family, educators, peers and other service providers. 

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2. Cathy Binger - Towards Cohesive Language Development in AAC.

This is a live recording of Cathy's keynote address at the 2017 AGOSCI conference.

Viewing tip - easiest to view on a large screen and good speakers.

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3. Fiona Given - Being Part of the AACtion

July 2017. Fiona Given shares her keynote address from the AGOSCI 2017 conference about experience as an AAC user. She speaks frankly of the barriers experienced by multi-modal communicators in Australian society, as well as insight into what the future holds for AAC communicators.

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4. Nick Bradbury - How I Became an AAC Communicator

September 2017. Nick Bradbury is a man in his 30’s who started his AAC journey as a child. He has established himself as an independent communicator through switch scanning (via his right knee). Nick shares with us his progression with communication devices and talks about his struggles and triumphs. He talks about what it means to achieve communicative competence, and will provide opportunities to answer questions.

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5. Barbara Solarsh and Georgia Burn (Scope) - Championing Communication Access for All

October 2017. Scope Australia have been leading Australia in their projects to promote communication access for people with complex communication needs. Barbara Solarsh (Communication Access Coordinator) and Georgia Burn (Communication Access Consultant) speak to us about the work that Scope’s Communication and Inclusion Resource Centre and the Victorian Communication Access Network (CAN) has done over the last 8 years, including the Communication Access Symbol accreditation process which has now been awarded to over 200 Victorian businesses. With ambitions to spread these initiatives throughout Australia, Barb and Georgia will be available to discuss the process of awarding the Communication Access Symbol, how people with complex communication needs can get involved, and will discuss what the future holds for communication access in Australia, as well as your questions about communication access.

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6. Gail Bennell - AAC and the NDIS - Surfing the Waves of Change

Thursday November 16th 2017. 

With the NDIS getting into full swing across Australia, we are seeing change not only to the way things in disability are being done but also changes within the way the scheme itself is run. Gail Bennell is a speech pathologist, private practice coach and video podcaster who has worked with participants within the NDIS roll out in 3 states since 2013. She will discuss the NDIS Assistive Technology (including AAC) framework, the challenges of providing services in a rapidly changing environment, and the ways that participants and providers can survive (and thrive) in the waves of change. 

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7. Siobhan Daley - Achieving Functional Communication Through Minspeak

Thu, March 15th, 2018 7:30 PM AEDT

Siobhan Daley is boccia athlete, an aspiring speech pathology student and an AAC user. She shares with us her journey in learning Minspeak and discussing the successes, challenges and technical aspects on how this method has worked for her and what has helped her in becoming proficient in this language.

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8. Janelle Sampson - Assessment and AAC - Where do we start? What am I looking for?

Tuesday, May 22nd, 2018 7:00 PM AEST

Where do we start when it comes to assessing people with Complex Communication Needs for the most appropriate AAC solution? Janelle Sampson has over 25 years experience as a Speech Pathologist and currently runs Two Way Street, a busy private practice in South Australia. She will present on considerations for assessment with regards to client/family centred practice and also within the context of AAC requirements. Participants will learn about the assessment process and outcome measurement approaches, as well as have the opportunity to post questions and discuss assessment challenges with Janelle.

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9. Dr Jane Remington-Gurney - Communication assistants: What strategies do they use in conversation with people who have Down syndrome, Rett syndrome or Cerebral Palsy?

Tuesday, September 4th 2018 5:30 PM AEST

Synopsis:

We know that the people supporting individuals with complex communication needs (CCN) play an invaluable role in enabling them to communicate and have their voices heard in community. However, conversation is more than just communicating and often elusive to people with CCN. 


In my PhD study, Conversations Without Speech: A qualitative investigation of the strategies used by adult communication assistants in Queensland, the person without a reported disability was the focal point. In the peer reviewed literature this person is referred to as a communication partner irrespective of their knowledge and skills in AAC; and is noted to be ‘often unrecognised and/or unsupported’ (Kent-Walsh et al., 2015). In my research I sought participation from adults in Queensland who already had some knowledge and skill in AAC and I referred to these people as communication assistants. Participants supported individuals with Down syndrome, Rett syndrome or Cerebral Palsy. This enables a broad spectrum of strategies to be identified across the sensory, motor and cognitive-linguistic domains. Data was collected from a survey, written narrative analysis, and observational analysis of filmed dyadic conversations. 
In the webinar I aim to share with you some of the findings of this research. In particular, the glossary of seventy three conversation strategies and seven styles of conversation that were identified. I hope that the information will be provocative and provide some new tools and considerations for when we participate in or examine closely, conversations without speech. 


Learning Objectives: 

- To learn the 7 styles of conversation with people with CCN & associated conversation strategies identified through Janes research 
- To learn new tools & considerations for when we participate in and examine conversations without speech 
- To learn coding strategies that may be considered in interactions for people with CCN 


Agenda:

  1. Pre-study: the questions that lay unanswered and evoked the research.

  2. Study design: including the choice of Dynamic Systems Theory as the over arching meta theory; the application of the dance metaphor and considerations when disseminating information to potential participants.

  3. Data collection and analysis: this section will focus on phase two where new notations and

    coding were used in the transcription process.

  4. The findings: systems, strategies and styles that may impact on how we design and deliver

    communication partner training.

  5. Your questions. 

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10. What’s in a Voice? An overview of message banking and voice banking

Tue, Dec 11, 2018 7:00 PM AEST (8:00pm VIC/NSW/ACT/TAS, 7:00pm QLD, 7:30pm SA, 6:30pm NT, 5:00pm WA)
Presented by Peta Booth, Speech Pathologist from LifeTec Australia 

Overview: 
Our voices are intrinsically linked to our identity. Many individuals are born without the ability to harness their voice, whilst others may lose their voice due to numerous reasons, including degenerative conditions (e.g. MND), or as the result of surgery (e.g. Laryngectomy). Message banking is an increasingly known strategy to support people to record ‘legacy messages’ which can be integrated into their speech generating devices. Voice Banking is an ever emerging technology that enables people to create bespoke synthetic voices which closely represent an individual’s vocal characteristics. 

The aim of this webinar is to explore message banking and voice banking, and discuss: what are these processes? Who is it for? How do you do it? What else should I consider, and be aware of, prior to embarking on the journey of banking a voice. 

Learning Objectives: 
Participants will - 
• develop an understanding about message banking and voice banking 
• be aware of the typical processes involved in message and voice banking (including the variety of voice banking services) 
• be aware of other considerations when considering message banking and/or voice banking 
• know where to go to seek more information about message banking and voice banking 
• know where to seek support for these processes 

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11. Understanding Parent Rejection and Abandonment of AAC Systems

Presented by Alison Moorcroft

Thursday, March 14, 2019  7:00 PM for a 7:15pm start AEST  (8:00pm VIC/NSW/ACT/TAS; 7:00pm QLD; 7:30pm SA; 6:30pm NT; 5:00pm WA)

Overview:

In this one hour webinar, participants will be provided with an overview of the research evidence for why AAC systems are rejected or abandoned by parents of children with complex communication needs. Participants will also learn evidence-based strategies that, when incorporated into clinical practice, may support parents to accept and use the AAC systems they introduce. 

About the presenter:

Alison is a speech pathologist with experience introducing AAC systems to children and adults with complex communication needs across the public and private sectors. In 2016, she commenced her PhD at The University of Queensland aiming to understand why some parents reject or abandon the AAC systems introduced to their children. 

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12. Using AAC to give evidence in court and tribunal hearings

Presented by Fiona Given

Wednesday, April 10, 2019  7:30pm AEST 

Overview:

This webinar will focus on using AAC to give evidence in court and tribunal hearings.

Fiona Given uses AAC and is a general member of the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal. She has heard a number of cases involving people who used AAC and has published in the area. The aim of this webinar is to demonstrate that AAC is a legitimate way to give evidence in courts and tribunals. 

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13. Implementing music therapy and AAC in a lower resourced setting

Wednesday May 8th 2019

Overview:

Kylie Hinde and Farhin Chowdhury share their unique experience of teacher and parent training at Foundation for Autism Research and Education (FARE) in Bangladesh (February, 2019). This involved providing workshops combining music therapy and aided language input. Both returning to Bangladesh, Kylie and Farhin explore how they adapted their own practices and clinical skills, navigating the Bangladeshi cultural context.

About the presenters:

Kylie is a Registered Music Therapist (neurological) and provisional psychologist working in Brisbane in the areas of early intervention, autism, cross-culture and research. Kylie lived and worked in Bangladesh in 2011-2012, and with parents and therapists developed an early intervention manual and CD. In research, Kylie is currently examining the importance of mental health in persons with disability.

Farhin is a Speech Pathologist from Melbourne. She was born in Bangladesh and migrated to Australia with her family in 1998. Farhin works in special education and private practice with children and adults with moderate-to-severe intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

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14. Online therapy: making the most of technology to support AAC users and people with complex communication needs. 

June 5th 2019  7pm AEST  Presented by Edward Johnson

Content overview:

The webinar will present some of the evidence for individualised and family-centred online therapy, including the perspectives and experiences of some families, AAC users, and people with CCN who have accessed online therapy. Case studies will be used to walk participants through the process of delivering best practice online therapy.

Learning objectives: 
Participants will learn about:

1. The emerging clinical evidence in this area

2. Client and family experiences

3. Clinical case studies

4. How to provide best practice therapeutic supports via online therapy


About the Presenter:

Ed Johnson is an accidental speech pathologist, rural generalist, and PhD candidate. He has practiced across rural and remote communities for the last 8 years. Ed is a Co-Founder of Umbo, SARRAH Director, and sits on the Clinical Council at the Western NSW Primary Health Network.

Ed’s research focuses on access and choice to person-centred allied health supports in rural and remote Australia. His research has shown that it is possible to deliver therapy online with people with complex communication needs and build community capacity at the same time.

Ed is keen to learn from people with disabilities about how allied health can support them to live the life that they want, and would like to support them to advocate on their terms, especially in rural and remote areas.

In doing this, Ed is inspired and motivated by the words of everybody’s favourite Czech existential anarchist, Franz Kafka, who said: "Start with what is right rather than what is accepted.”

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15. Finding your way with AAC AT provision in the NDIS: A joint collaboration between AGOSCI and Speech Pathology Australia

Friday 12th July, 2019  1:30-3:00pm AEST

Webinar Series (3 webinars in total): Learning Aim

The aim of the webinar series is to:

  • Familiarise AGOSCI and SPA educators and clinicians with the administrative processes under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) including the clinical Assistive Technology (AT) assessment. (webinar one - July 12th)
  • Provide introductory information about evidence based, person centered and capacity building approaches to provision of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) AT Technology within the NDIS (webinar two - date TBC)
  • Provide a guided learning experience around completion of the NDIS AT Assessment template against the reasonable and necessary criteria of the NDIS Act (webinar three - date TBC).

Webinar 1 (July 12, 2019): Learning Aim

The aim of Webinar #1 is to update AGOSCI and SPA educators and clinicians on the progress and status of the NDIS roll-out, current administrative processes for AAC AT provision and the role of families, parents and carers including the use of de-identified case examples.

Webinar 1: Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of the webinar participants will be able to:

  • Discuss the progress and status of the NDIS rollout with regard to AAC AT provision;
  • Identify current and likely future administrative processes for AAC AT provision; and
Examine case studies discussing client, participant and provider understanding and requirements and treatment goals

About the Speakers

Cathy Olsson: B.App.Sci(Speech Pathology), MSPA, CPSP

Catherine (Cathy) Olsson has provided speech pathology supports to people with disabilities, their families and supports since graduating, including 28 years as Professional Lead with Novita Children’s Services, and 4 years as Clinical Lead for Speech Pathology with Disability Services, the South Australian Government therapy service provider. Cathy is passionate about the speech pathology profession, and has a range of interests including exploration of the concept of participation for people with Complex Communication Needs, and Clinical Governance and allied health service provision. Since early in 2014, Cathy has been focused on understanding the NDIS and the implications of the scheme for the delivery of speech pathology supports and outcomes for people with communication and oral eating and drinking difficulties. It is possible that she knows as much (or more) about the NDIS, than anyone else on the planet!

Jessica Moll: BSpPath, MSPA, CPSP

Jessica’s experience has been in supporting children and adults with a range of developmental needs across community and educational contexts since graduating in 2010.  She has a keen interest in supporting people with complex communication needs and has worked exclusively in Augmentative and Alternative Communication since joining the LifeTec team in 2017.  Jessica works clinically as a speech pathologist, as well as in the role of the AAC Service Coordinator. 

LifeTec is a social enterprise that provides dedicated assistive technology (AT) services. Our aim is to enable people of all ages and abilities to actively engage in home, work, school and community life. Established in 1981, LifeTec has a team of health professionals including occupational therapists, speech pathologists and physiotherapists who have a passion for AT.  LifeTec offers a dedicated AAC Service across Queensland and into Northern NSW, and has worked in the NDIS space since the QLD rollout commenced in 2016.  LifeTec’s AAC service team comprises of five speech pathologists who provide assessment, prescription and training services for AAC users of all ages and backgrounds.  

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16. Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Literacy

Presented by Ashley Harling (CPSP)

Wednesday 31st July

Webinar Overview

Up to 90% of students with complex communication needs (CCN) enter adulthood without functional literacy skills. This contributes to <5% of those people being employed. Literacy is a  critical skill allowing us to participate and contribute in our literate society. Recently Ashley presented at the DSF conference talking about the unique challenges experienced by people with complex communication needs (CCN). Within the context of considering AAC and literacy, this presentation will discuss the unique barriers and risks experienced by individuals with CCN, the impact of our presumptions, and how we can support development.

About the Presenter:

Ashley Harling is a certified practicing speech pathologist and is passionate about communication access for all. Ashley has been working with the the Independent Living Centre (ILC) of WA in since June 2018, and is working closely with schools to support the implementation of AAC within the education setting. Prior to joining the ILC, Ashley worked in both Australia and the UK with government departments and non-for-profit disability organisations who focused services on children and adults with complex communication needs at home, school, and within their community. She regularly delivers training and coaching on communication and AAC technology to carers, health professionals, and educators.

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17. "How do I need to be in order to be with you?":  Supporting adults with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities

Presented by Sheridan Forster

Wednesday 7th August 7pm AEST

Webinar Overview

In research and practice a crisis in companionship is being recognised for adults with profound intellectual disabilities (PIMD). For many people, engagment with another person throughout the day, outside of their needs based care, can be measured in seconds or minutes. Rarely is this companionship measured in hours.

Many academics, practitioners, and parents now recognise that what is needed for adults with PIMD is not being treated just like everyone else, but being engaged with in a way that meets that individual’s needs. Changing a culture that constantly falls back on “just talking” to the person, missing the mark of the multisensory modalities needed for expression and the deep attentiveness required to understand and scaffold the communication a person with PIMD, is a massive challenge.

In this podcast, Sheridan will introduce some of the research that describes communicative environments of people with PIMD, the strategies which are growing to be best practice, and acknowledges the complex issues of ethics and practice when  a shared language may not currently be verbal or visual.

About the Presenter

Dr Sheridan Forster has worked as a speech pathologist, researcher, and lecturer in the past, specialising in adults with intellectual disabilities. A twenty year exploration of what communication might mean with people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities has been the spark of fire that keeps her exploring, questioning and settling on supports needed by this population and those that support them. A recent injury and health shift has helped her better understand what it might be like to only understand one word in a sentence delivered to her, the fluctuations in processing and expressive abilities that happen minute by minute, and appreciate that we all need to be gazed upon with a lense that ponders “how do I need to be in order to be with you?”.

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18. Encouraging the promotion of long-term AAC use: learning from social identity theory

Presented by Ruyi Tong      September 25th 2019

Webinar Overview

This webinar explores factors that may influence outcomes of AAC interventions over time, by drawing on principles from social identity theory.

Key learning outcomes

1) Understand social identity theory and how it may provide a framework for designing AAC interventions.

2) Identify different AAC intervention outcomes that may promote and limit long-term AAC use.

3) Understand different ways of empowering new and existing AAC users to use AAC longitudinally.

About the Presenter

Ruyi is an advanced speech pathologist, lecturer and doctoral candidate based in Perth, Western Australia. Ruyi has been working with individuals with diverse communication needs over the past 13.5 years. Three AAC-related career highlights over the past five years are working with educators to develop a consistent approach of implementing school-wide AAC use within one special education school in Perth; teaching final-year healthcare students culturally-appropriate ways of using English and Mandarin-based AAC systems as clinical facilitator and country co-ordinator for students on interprofessional practice placements in China, and working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams to deliver client-centred AAC interventions within an NDIS environment.


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19. I Have A Dream For Communication - AGOSCI Conference Keynote Presentation 2019

Presented by Joey Harrall - Released to AGOSCI Members in October 2019

About the Presenter:



Joey Harrall is 19 years old and he has cerebral palsy because of that he can’t walk or speak but he doesn’t think that he is unlucky with having a disability. He lives with his lovely brother, beautiful sister in law and five bright and funny nephews in Western Australia. He presented for the first time at ISAAC in 2018 and he started to help the Variety Motor Mouth camp by giving speeches and mentoring the parents and the kids. He has a dream to own his own mentoring business someday because he has a dream to help people to find their voice in this fast pace world. In his downtime, he likes trying to fix computers, playing with his family and of course sleeping.



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20. SPA x AGOSCI: Considerations for AAC Assessment in the World of NDIS

November 8th, 2019     1:30pm-3:00pm AEDT

AGOSCI (in collaboration with LifeTec Queensland) and Speech Pathology Australia are pleased to bring you Part 2 of this 3 Part Webinar Series on AAC and the NDIS. 

Webinar 2 (November 8th, 2019): Learning Aim

The aim of this webinar series is to provide an overview of assessment considerations for provision of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) AT Technology within the NDIS. Webinar 2 focuses on the guidelines for AAC assessment, and the ‘journey’ of Assessment, feature matching and trialing of AT, with reference to the NDIS ‘reasonable and necessary’ criteria and the NDIS Assistive Technology Template.

Webinar 2 Learning Objectives:

  • Be aware of the clinical guidelines for AAC assessment, as a certified practicing speech pathologist in Australia

  • Identify your scope of practice and pathways to find further support or information on AAC assessment

  • Describe the role of the speech pathologist in conducting AAC assessments and clinical trials under the NDIS

  • Locate the AT Assessment Template and be aware of how this may impact assessment and information gathering
Your Presenters:

Cathy Olsson: B.App.Sci(Speech Pathology), MSPA, CPSP

 Jessica Moll: BSpPath, MSPA, CPSP

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21. Moving beyond object requesting for AAC users with ASD: What does the research say?

November 20th, 2019 - Presented by Kristy Logan

This webinar will present the key findings from Kristy’s PhD research, which has explored how AAC interventions are used to develop symbolic communication for functions other than making object requests in children with ASD. The webinar will focus on three main areas:

1. AAC intervention ingredients according to research: creating communication environments, evidence-based teaching strategies, reinforcing communication, and identifying the dosage of therapy required

2. Aided enhanced milieu teaching (AEMT) as a naturalistic intervention to develop symbolic and social communication skills in children with ASD

3. Strategies for supporting parents to implement AEMT with their child with ASD

About the presenter:

Kristy Logan has worked as a speech pathologist for children with autism spectrum disorder for the past 17 years. She has worked in a range of settings including disability, education, health, and private practice. Kristy’s PhD research has focused on developing social communication skills in children with ASD who use AAC.

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22. SPA x AGOSCI: Considerations for AAC Assessment in the World of NDIS (Webinar #3)

December 4th, 2019    5pm AEDT

AGOSCI (in collaboration with LifeTec Queensland) and Speech Pathology Australia are pleased to bring you the final part of this 3 Part Webinar Series on AAC and the NDIS. 

Webinar 3 (December 4th, 2019): Learning Aim

The aim of this webinar series is to provide an overview of assessment considerations for provision of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) AT Technology within the NDIS. Webinar 3 focuses on the NDIS AT application template, and discusses the NDIS ‘reasonable and necessary’ criteria.

Webinar 3 Learning Objectives:

  • Be familiar with content and structure of the NDIS AT Assessment  Template
  • To see examples of the documentation of AAC AT assessment and trial processes using the NDIS AT Assessment Template
  • Be aware of how to link assessment and trial outcomes and aided AAC features to the NDIS reasonable and necessary criteria when requesting AAC AT provision through the NDIS

Your Presenters:

Cathy Olsson: B.App.Sci(Speech Pathology), MSPA, CPSP


 Jessica Moll: BSpPath, MSPA, CPSP

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23. International perspectives on Easy English and Easy Read: What do we need to know?

12th February, 2020 - Presented by Cathy Basterfield

Webinar Overview:
Accessible written information is being developed in Australia and internationally. This has been occurring in different parts of the world for over 20 years now. There are various labels used including Easy English, Easy Read or Easy to Read in the English-speaking world.

This webinar will present a review of national and international perspectives on developing accessible written content with and for people with literacy that does not meet day to day reading needs. A review of current practices, recently published research with content and discussion from - IASSIDD 2019 (August 2019), PLAIN International 2019 (September) and Clear (KLAARA) International (September 2019) will be presented.

This webinar provides an up to date analysis on what we need to know to be advocating and developing quality accessible written information in Australia.

About the Presenter:

Cathy Basterfield is an experienced Speech Pathologist, with more than 30 years’ experience working with people with Complex Communication Needs. She has been developing, training and advocating for Easy English for the last 15 years.

Cathy was awarded a Victorian Government Ethel Temby scholarship for an investigative study into international trends and accreditation for Easy English writing and publications in 2011.

Cathy was involved in the development of the first guidelines for writing Easy English in Australia. In 2014, the Victorian State Government commissioned her to develop Easy English: How to comply with the Victorian Government Accessible Communication Guidelines, which is available on their intranet.

Based in Melbourne, Cathy owns and operates Access Easy English. She works across all states in Australia working with government, non government agencies and businesses in their implementation of Easy English.

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24. Exploring the Spoken Language Development of School-Aged Children on the Autism Spectrum with Minimal Verbal Language

Presented by Lauren Davis - Speech Pathologist

August 12th, 7pm AEST

Summary of content: This presentation will discuss the language development of children on the autism spectrum who enter formal schooling with minimal verbal language skills. This includes possible methods for assessing the social-communication and language skills of these children to determine profiles of strengths, needs and language emergence over time, as well as identification of potential differences in the personal, family, and environmental factors in children who do or do not go on to develop spoken language skills during the formal school years. This has important implications for clinicians working with this unique group of children on the autism spectrum, with practical implications for assessment and intervention planning discussed in light of the research study findings and clinical experience.

Bio: Lauren is a speech pathologist based in Sydney currently performing three main roles including managing her own private practice, working as a professional practice educator for the Australian Catholic University and assisting with various research projects for Griffith University in Queensland. She has experience working across public, not-for-profit, and private sectors in Australia and the UK. Lauren has experience working with children with complex needs and a special interest in young children on the autism spectrum who are minimally verbal. This interest recently led Lauren to complete a Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies and Research Masters in order to better understand the language development of children on the autism spectrum. Lauren is passionate about supporting children and their families to develop effective methods to communicate and experience positive lifelong outcomes.


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25. Connection, Isolation and Online Life in Lock Down - Presented by Siobhan Daley

September 23rd - 7pm AEST

Siobhan Daley is a 20 year old living by herself in Newcastle. She has been using AAC her whole life and currently works for Liberator as their New South Wales AAC Ambassador. She is an elite boccia athlete on the Australian High-Performance Squad and represented Australia in Dubai last December. She enjoys listening to music, playing video games and watching tv.

In this presentation, Siobhan discusses the time she has already spent in lockdown due to the COVID19 pandemic, giving tips on how she has kept herself and her team happy, healthy and (reasonably) sane, as well as discussing how to maintain relationships while in such close quarters for extended periods of time.

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26. Family, Friendships and Autonomy for the Future - Presented by Hannah Gutke (Parent and Educator)

October 12, 2020

In this webinar, Hannah will share with pride some of her experiences as parent to Claire, who is learning to communicate with AAC. She will share some of their experiences in embedding AAC into daily life, of improving her own skills as an effective communication partner, and in building wider networks of communication partners for her daughter. Developing peer relationships has become a key element in supporting Claire to become an effective communicator and to reach the ultimate goal of communication autonomy. Hannah will explain some of the steps that led to the initiation of a communication club for Claire that includes friends from her Year 4 class, and will recount some of the highlights of these connections. She will share some ideas that have worked for their family to promote an inclusive and wonderful life for Claire where she is valued and can add value.

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27. Improving communication access in mental health support. How can we help?
Presented by Eleanor Watson - April 13, 2021

COVID-19 has bought about an unprecedented focus on mental health supports in Australia. However the question remains; how accessible are the existing mental health supports for people with communication support needs? This webinar will look at the current research around communication access in mental health support and identify strategies to promote communication about mental health and wellbeing.

Eleanor Watson is a PhD Candidate at Flinders University. Her PhD research project is titled Connecting to Wellbeing: Improving communication access in mental health supports with people with complex communication needs. This project follows a previous study exploring the views of people with complex communication needs regarding mental health and wellbeing. Eleanor’s studies are motivated by the belief that everybody is entitled to good mental health support.

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28. Autonomy in Decision Making (AiDEM): A summary of the key learning and resources from the project - Presented by Ashley Harling 

June 21, 2021

This webinar summarises a 2019/20 project whose aim was to improve the participation of students with complex communication needs in daily decision making. When it comes to providing students with opportunities to learn and practice self-determination to make meaningful contributions to their future, there is a significant burden on teachers to adapt the curriculum to meet the individual needs of students and a disconnect between best practice and everyday practice which many educators feel unsupported to bridge.

The outcomes from the project resulted in a pack of resources targeting some of the early barriers to participation. The resources developed were the result of visits to different schools who had identified students who they felt could benefit from increased participation in decision making. The resources target two key areas:

  1. Communication partner skills
  2. Individualised planning: A common base of understanding about how students can be supported to participate in decision making.

The project confirmed many larger research studies that one of the primary barriers for participation in decision making is perception of capacity which, in turn, affects provision of opportunity.

Presenter:

Ashley Harling is a certified practicing Speech Pathologist who is passionate about communication access for all and has been working with Indigo (formerly the Independent Living Centre of WA) in since June 2018. This has allowed her to grow her passion for AAC and helping adults and children find their voice. Ashley works closely with schools to support the implementation of AAC within the education setting as well as individuals within their home and community. She regularly delivers training and coaching on communication and AAC technology to carers, health professionals, allied health students, and educators.

This webinar is kindly sponsored by Indigo Solutions of Western Australia. AGOSCI would like to thank Indigo for supporting us to bring this webinar to our members! 


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29. “The best PD we’ve ever had”- What we learned from creating, delivering, and refining an AAC workshop series for parents and carers - Presented by Megan Walsh and Caitie Mitchell 

July 28, 2021.  7pm AEST *check your timezone

In 2018, speech pathologists Megan Walsh and Caitie Mitchell developed a year-long series of workshops for parents and carers of children who used AAC.  They have run the program every year since then, including during the COVID-19 lockdown.  Based on feedback from the participants, Megan and Caitie also developed short “masterclasses” on specific topics, which have been offered several times per year since 2019.  In this workshop, Megan and Caitie will share:

  • The clinical observations and AAC evidence used to build the course content
  • The pre- and post- assessment tools used and the clinical reasoning behind those
  • The revisions made along the way, including ongoing incorporation of evidence
  • Lessons learned about carer capacity building in AAC
  • Practical tips for starting and running AAC workshops, including within NDIA funding structures
  • Ideas for short courses and “masterclasses”
Presenters:

Megan Walsh is a speech pathologist whose career has focussed on working with people with CCN and their families in both the U.S. and Australia. 

Her speciality is paediatrics. 

Megan recently started a PhD about adolescents who use AAC.



Caitie Mitchell is a speech pathologist with over 10 years experience supporting babies through 
to young adults who have complex communication needs and their families and carers.

She has been privileged to work in a special education setting in Melbourne, at a not-for-profit supporting people with neurodevelopmental conditions and in private practice.  




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30. AAC competencies from coursework into practice - Presented by Ruyi Tong and Abigail Lewis

August 16th, 2021.  7:30pm AEST *check your timezone

Webinar Overview

Edith Cowan University implemented a new unit in 2020 focused on developing speech pathology students’ competencies for working with clients that have complex communication needs. This unit was developed in consultation with key stakeholders such as therapists, clients participating in the NDIS, and equipment suppliers. To evaluate the unit, data was collected at several time points, including after placements, to understand the impact of the unit on students’ practice.

This webinar will describe the process of developing industry-informed content and present the preliminary findings from the student evaluations of this new unit. Recommendations for preparing students for practice with clients with complex communication needs will be discussed. There will be opportunities to discuss the potential application for new graduate speech pathologists entering the disability sector as well as implications for supervisors of speech pathology students or new graduates.

Presenters:

Ruyi Tong is a speech pathologist with extensive experience working in the disability sector with clients with complex communication needs.

She used this expertise to inform the development of this new unit and taught the first iteration of the unit.




Abigail Lewis is the clinical coordinator and lecturer in the Bachelor of Speech Pathology program at Edith Cowan University. Prior to this role she had a long career in the disability sector, working particularly with students with autism. 

She is passionate about ensuring speech pathology students learn about working with clients with disabilities.



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31. Building an AAConnect™ community - Presented by Jenna O'Brien

September 27th 2021, 7pm AEST

Kids Plus are passionate about delivering targeted intervention to support clients to achieve the most effective communication to maximize potential and enhance their quality of life.  In some cases this involves the use of high-tech Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) options. 

But, maybe there's another piece to the puzzle; the real transformation for these clients comes when you inform and influence their unique environments. We will explore the impact of education and training, changing attitudes, and developing advocacy skills in the important people around the client through our AAConnect program.

Presenter

Jenna O'Brien recently won the Speech Pathology Australia Innovation Award for her submission titled 'AAC Connect'  in the 'Professional Practice' category! 

Jenna is a speech pathologist at Kids+ Foundation in Geelong, Victoria. She has focussed her 11 years of experience in the field of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Jenna has expertise in providing communication strategies for children and young people with complex and multiple impairments. She continues to work in a practical, hands on way, collaborating with families, educators, therapists, siblings and other supports to implement various high and lite tech AAC systems with to individuals in all settings. She has commenced her Masters of Disability and Inclusion at Deakin University, to better equip her for the task of community capacity building for AAC. 

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32. The view of an AAC user - Presented by Noah Callan

October 11th 2021,  7:30pm AEDT

My name is Noah, and I am an AAC user. One of my greatest passions is the excitement of discovering new technology and the incredible impact dramatically improving the quality of my life. I have helped change the angles of accessibility in Apple operating systems, and from that point, I started realising I have a voice. I can create change and advocate for it. I have always been interested in technology and the power it generates for someone with a disability. AAC is essential as it gives me a voice I never had. If AAC were not a thing, many of the incredible opportunities that have come my way so far in my life would not have been possible.


Join Noah as he educates and shares his wisdom on the view of an AAC user!

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33. Fostering Autistic Wellbeing through the Neurodiversity Paradigm - Presented by Kat and Katrina of Bridges Learning Systems

April 14, 2022

Do you want to support your autistic child or student to be their best selves? Of course you do, but what exactly does that look like?

Join Katrina Martin and Kat Harhai as we discuss what Autistic wellbeing looks like (spoiler- it’s not what all of the textbooks might have you believe!).

We’ll unpack the medical model of Autism and dive into how you can reframe your thinking, to be a true ally to autistic children.

This month is autism acceptance month, but we’ll challenge you to take a step beyond acceptance towards true affirmation. In the process you’ll find that when you apply a neurodiversity lens you are much more able to foster true Autistic wellbeing.

Presenters

Katrina Martin, PhD is the founder and lead curriculum designer at Bridges Learning System. After years of working within and on behalf of the education system for disabled youth, Katrina believes that true education reform is paramount. She contends that now is the time to remove the antiquated paradigm of educating neurodivergent students through a medical model of disability. In its place, we must institute a social justice model of education, supporting strengths and teaching the benefits and values inherent in diverse ways of thinking. Katrina founded Bridges Learning System with the belief that by bringing together the autistic community and those who work on their behalf we can change the world, one student, one family, and one educator at a time.


Kat Harhai is a facilitator, educator, and writer. She has facilitated rehabilitative programming for incarcerated women. She is also multiply disabled, and was late diagnosed as autistic as a young adult. Since discovering her diagnosis, she has been on the lookout for opportunities to combine her professional experience with her passion for advancing disability justice. She is a big believer in the long-held disability justice mantra “nothing about us without us,” and is thrilled to be working for a company that puts that value into action. As the Neurodiversity Collaboration Facilitator, she engages with other neurodivergent folks via surveys and focus groups and uses that feedback to inform our curricula. She is excited to be part of a project that aligns so well with her values, and to be on a team that is so passionate, intentional, and dedicated. 

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34. Individualising AAC Systems for Diverse Needs

Presented by Dr Amarie Carnett, April 20th, 2022

Dr. Amarie Carnett is a Senior Lecturer in Educational Psychology at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Texas San Antonio.

Prior to pursuing her advanced degrees, Dr. Carnett worked as a special education teacher and behaviour specialist in public schools in Texas. She has over 10 years of experience working in the field of Autism and Developmental Disabilities.

Her research interest can be classified into two overlapping categories (1) communication interventions, and (2) adaptive functioning. She has 37 peer reviewed articles related to communication interventions, and adaptive functioning.

Webinar Overview

  • Discussion of evidence-based practices
  • Understanding and assessing individual needs, to help improve implementation and outcomes
  • Review of decision making framework and assessment study
  • Considerations, tips and resources
  • Future directions

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35. Inclusive education for people with complex communication needs. What do we know? What do we want to know? 

Recorded on May 9th, 2022. Presented by Phoebe Lehmann and Dr Abi Thirumanickam

In this webinar, Abi and Phoebe talk about perceptions, attitudes and beliefs around inclusive education for people with complex communication needs, and the use of inclusive research principles in conducting research with people with complex communication needs.

Our Presenters

Dr. Abi Thirumanickam is a multilingual, speech pathology academic whose research interests are situated exploring and promoting accessible, inclusive communities.  including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and persons with complex communication needs.  She is a Speech Pathology Australia certified practicing speech pathologist, and is currently working as a lecturer in the School of Allied Health Science and Practice in the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. She has practised as a speech pathologist in the public and private sectors, across health care, community, and education settings. She has clinical, research, and teaching experiences in communication across the lifespan, disability, community inclusion communication accessibility, and assistive technology, including augmentative and alternative communication. She was the AGOSCI Annual Research Grant recipient in 2020/2021, for her research project looking at the use of videos in changing the perceptions of inclusive education for people with complex communication needs.

Phoebe Lehmann is a certified practicing speech pathologist, and has been working at Two Way Street in South Australia, since January 2021. Phoebe has the privilege of supporting people with complex communication needs and their families, educators, therapists, support team and the wider community. In addition, Phoebe works as a research assistant, where she has a particular interest in inclusive education.



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36. New research: EMG and spatial technology for AAC. What is it?

Recorded on May 30, 2022. 

This online presentation is designed to introduce AAC users, therapists and caregivers to EMG and Spatial technology, the latest development by Control Bionics, which is designed to reduce user fatigue while increasing communication speed.

By the end of the presentation, participants will:

  • Understand when and how to implement EMG and Spatial technology for AAC users
  • Benefits and the future of EMG and Spatial technology

Presenters

Alex Alvarado has a background on Biomedical Engineering. He joined Control Bionics 4 years ago with the desire to help people with disabilities to communicate and control their environment through technology. During this time, he has developed a passion for developing products that are intuitive and easy to use, not only for the end-user but for therapists and caregivers. He enjoys spending time with clients and pushing the boundaries of technology. He believes that through technology, innovative approaches, and the development of new products, we can improve human health. He is passionate about doing what is right for customers, communities, and colleagues, and by doing so, we can better serve the health and well-being of people everywhere.


Annette Curry (Head of Sales Australasia, Control Bionics) originally qualified as a Registered Nurse and Registered Midwife, in Johannesburg, South Africa, further specialising in the areas of Neurosurgical Intensive Care and Rehabilitation. After many years in the pharmaceutical industry, Annette transitioned into the Assistive Technology (AT) sector. With an extensive knowledge of the Australian Healthcare, Aged Care, Disability markets, and clinical application of Assistive Technology, Annette is regularly approached to present on these very important subjects to Healthcare Professionals across Australia.


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37. Cosmos Connect: Beyond Assistive Technology. What is next?

Recorded on June 20, 2022. 

This online presentation is designed to introduce AAC users and therapists to COSMOS Connect, the latest development from Control Bionics, that allow users to interact with their environment, play video games, activate switch toys, dine independently, check text messages, and more, using a single NeuroNode or eye gaze camera and the Cosmos Connect.

    Presenters

    Alex Alvarado has a background on Biomedical Engineering. He joined Control Bionics 4 years ago with the desire to help people with disabilities to communicate and control their environment through technology. During this time, he has developed a passion for developing products that are intuitive and easy to use, not only for the end-user but for therapists and caregivers. He enjoys spending time with clients and pushing the boundaries of technology. He believes that through technology, innovative approaches, and the development of new products, we can improve human health. He is passionate about doing what is right for customers, communities, and colleagues, and by doing so, we can better serve the health and well-being of people everywhere.


    Annette Curry (Head of Sales Australasia, Control Bionics) originally qualified as a Registered Nurse and Registered Midwife, in Johannesburg, South Africa, further specialising in the areas of Neurosurgical Intensive Care and Rehabilitation. After many years in the pharmaceutical industry, Annette transitioned into the Assistive Technology (AT) sector. With an extensive knowledge of the Australian Healthcare, Aged Care, Disability markets, and clinical application of Assistive Technology, Annette is regularly approached to present on these very important subjects to Healthcare Professionals across Australia.


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    38. AAC therapy for non-verbal children with ASD - What works for whom and why?

    Recorded on July 5th, 2022

    Each child with ASD presents with a unique constellation of strengths and needs, resulting in substantial heterogeneity and variability in response to therapy. Thus, there is a need to tailor AAC to meet the individual needs and skills of the AAC user. However, research evidence is scant on what components of AAC therapy are most effective, for whom, and under what conditions. This paucity of research makes evidence-based decisions challenging. There is a need for a deeper understanding of the active ingredients that drive effective AAC interventions to inform clinicians.

    The focus of this webinar is on improving AAC outcomes for children with ASD who are minimally verbal — the emerging research on factors that predict, moderate, and mediate AAC outcomes. Exploring factors under these terms is an important step to making evidence-based decisions on individualizing AAC interventions to a specific subgroup of children with ASD who are minimally verbal. Topics to be discussed include a review of ASD communication development,  AAC terminology, barriers to AAC evidence based practice, summary of research on factors that explain variability and clinical implications. Discussion is encouraged through out the webinar on how can clinicians integrate emerging research into their clinical rational and contribute their insights or questions .

    Dr. Stephi Sievers is a board certified ASHA speech-language pathologist (SLPA) and behavioral therapist with over 10 years of experience. Starting out in Seattle as an SLP-A and behavioral therapist she now works as a clinical consultant for NGOs and private clinics in Brisbane Australia. Earlier this year Dr. Stephi completed her Ph.D. and is excited for her post PhD ventures.

    Stephi’s research is focused on improving spoken language outcomes for children with ASD by exploring the underlying mechanisms that drive effective AAC therapy by highlighting factors that predict, moderate, and mediate AAC outcomes. She has five peer reviewed articles, two as first author. While her PhD research focused on spoken language outcomes she is passionate about improving early intervention to support all modes of communication to increased.

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    39. Assessing the mental health of young people with complex communication needs

    Recorded on August 8th, 2022

    Young people with complex communication needs (CCN) face barriers in accessing services to address mental health concerns.

    Access to valid and reliable tools for measuring mental wellbeing and mental health problems is critical for understanding the experiences of people with CCN, as well as for identification and management of mental health concerns.

    This webinar will:

    a) explore barriers to accessing tools which measure mental health and

    b) describe the presenter's PhD plan which works towards addressing these barriers.

    Presenter

    Jacinta Pennacchia 

    Jacinta is a speech pathologist and PhD student. Her clinical experience is within the specialist school setting, supporting children and adolescents with disabilities to access communication.


    Her research is focused on assessment of mental wellbeing and mental health problems for young people with complex communication needs (CCN). The aim is to ensure that services to address poor mental wellbeing and mental health problems are accessible to young people with CCN.

    Research Grant Recipient

    Consumer involvement is a major component of Jacinta's work. Throughout her PhD, consumers may be involved in any aspect, including identifying research priorities, influencing study design, planning recruitment and other implementation strategies, interpreting the findings, and integrated knowledge translation whereby consumers support the dissemination of findings to research end-users. Jacinta has been supported by the AGOSCI Annual Research Grant to fund consumer involvement in her PhD research.

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    40. Connect Play Learn; Including a relationship focus in early childhood interventions.

    Recorded on August 22nd, 2022

    This webinar has three parts. Jacqui will discuss the current evidence and context for a relationship-focused approach. She will then present a case study to demonstrate application of a relationship-focused approach before talking through the Connect Play Learn packages and resources.

    Connect Play Learn is an online training package developed by Mamre Association and Occupational Therapists Dr Jacqui Barfoot and Lachlan Kerley.

    Presenter

    Dr Jacqui Barfoot 

    As an experienced Occupational Therapist and Postdoctoral Clinical Researcher, Jacqui is passionate about creating a shift in early childhood intervention where parents are at the centre of therapy, supporting lifelong and rich relationships with their children.


    Jacqui has developed an innovative and practical training package for early childhood practitioners to feel confident incorporating a relationship-focused approach in their therapy as a foundation for all other areas of child development. She also works on several clinical research projects with the University of Queensland that focus on supporting parents who have a child with a disability.

    Disclosure

    AGOSCI is grateful to the Mamre Association and Dr Jacqui for generously making time to present this information to our Australian audience. 

    AGOSCI is an independent body and does not endorse individual products or brands.

    AGOSCI acknowledges the presence and contributions of all suppliers and resources available in the Australian and International AAC marketplace.

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    41. Impaired speech and ableism: An exploration of the meanings constructed around coherent speech

    Recorded on September 26th, 2022

    The ability to speak, and speak well, has been subsumed into our ideas of what it means to be a human being. Speech is governed by ableist norms of coherence and competence, and these norms decide who can be considered a good speaker. Conversely, speakers who fail to conform to these norms are treated as pathological and broken. Within this environment, disabled speakers experience stigma and discrimination.  Their experience of an ableist world effects their self-identity, and they can internalise the low expectations of an ableist world.

    Despite these insights there is a paucity of research which looks specifically at the ways in which disabled people think about their speech (and their selves). We invited people with a life-long experience of being a disabled speaker to respond to an on-line survey.   This presentation will draw on data from this ongoing research to explore how ableist norms of coherence and competence are reflected in the ways that impaired speakers talk about themselves, and the ways that these norms, and our failure to live up to them, can result in breaks to our voices. Only after understanding the ways that disabled speakers interact with the often damaging norms that surround them can we attempt to resist them, resistance which is critical for improving practice, policy and inclusion for those with impaired speech.

    Presenter

    Lesley Champion 

    Lesley Champion is a PhD candidate at the University of Melbourne under the supervision of Prof Keith McVilly. Having recently moved from linguistics into disability studies, her own experience of living with cerebral palsy and impaired speech inspired her to explore the ways that disabled speech is understood within ableist culture and often broken by it. Her work is particularly interested in the experiences of disabled people themselves, how these stories interact with ableist culture, how we can potentially think differently about impaired speech, and how we may tell stories which often go unheard.



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    42. AAC Space - Presented by Noah Callan

    Recorded on October 16th, 2022. 

    The AAC Community is growing every day. It is amazing to see families, teachers, speech therapists and device manufacturers coming together to make the world a better place through communication. We are making strides, but there are many steps we still have to take. We may have tools, systems, strategies and even devices to support AAC users; but we cannot fully support users if they don’t know where to find such assistive technologies or the providers.

    This webinar will explore a new website called AAC Space, a free platform that allows the community to find AAC device providers and speech pathologists. Come along to gain a better understanding of how this website was developed, what it aims to achieve, and how you may get the best use from it whether you're a provider wanting to list your services, or a person looking for AAC support! Join Noah, creator of the website, as he gives you a personal tour and answers any questions you might have.

    Our Presenter

    My name is Noah, and I am an AAC user. One of my greatest passions is the excitement of discovering new technology and its incredible impact on dramatically improving the quality of my life. I have helped change the angles of accessibility in Apple operating systems, and from that point, I started realising I have a voice. I can create change and advocate for it.

    I have always been interested in technology and the power it generates for someone with a disability. AAC is essential as it gives me the voice I never had. If AAC was not a thing, many of the incredible opportunities that have come my way so far in my life would not have been possible. I am the AAC and Technology Coordinator at Kids Plus, a children’s therapy hub in Gee long. I’m also an Associate for Get Skilled Access which Dylan Alcott founded.

    I should also say that recently, I launched three platforms, AAC Space, Occupational therapy space and Physiotherapy space. It’s basically yellow pages for AAC device providers, Speech Pathologists, Occupational therapists, and Physiotherapists.

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    43. What words do we use to talk about AAC? Survey results - Presented by Alyssa Hillary Zisk and Meredith Prain

    Recorded on January 20, 2023.

    Words are the building blocks of language, and language is how we tell stories. It’s how we tell each other who we are. Words can shape perceptions—calling AAC a “clinical practice” paints a very different picture from saying AAC is “all the ways we communicate.”

    In early 2022, AssistiveWare ran an online survey, asking people with a variety of relationships to AAC what they thought about 119 different words and phrases. The first research of its kind, the AssistiveWare survey resonated deeply with the community—in total 556 people participated. One out of every three people who took the survey uses AAC. Of these, nearly a fifth (18%) do not use spoken words.

    Hear the outcomes from that survey from lead researcher Alyssa Hillary Zisk, and receive an update on the Communication Access and Inclusion Project still underway in Australia from project lead Dr Meredith Prain.

    Presenters

    Alyssa Hillary Zisk

    Alyssa lives in the northeastern USA, between Boston and New York City. They are an Autistic part-time AAC user, using a variety of text-based tools.

    Alyssa does AAC research, some of which is related to their own AAC use and needs and some of which is not.

    They completed their PhD in interdisciplinary Neuroscience in May 2021, working on brain-computer interfaces for people with ALS. Alyssa is also one of the moderators of the Facebook group, Ask Me, I’m an AAC User.

    Dr Meredith Prain

    Dr Meredith Prain is a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist, researcher and consultant with over 20-years’ experience working together with people with deafblindness to improve  interactions, awareness and services.

    Meredith has a strong commitment to contributing to the evidence-base of best practice in working with people with deafblindness, and to sharing information about best-practice widely.

    She recognises and values the importance of working developmentally with individuals and their social networks in order to achieve the best and most sustainable outcomes.

    BSpPath, GradDipGerontolgoy, PhD, CPSP

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    44. Creativity and connection: using creative arts to foster relationships and connection - Presented by Claire Fraser

    Recorded on February 27, 2023.

    This 60 minute webinar, with time included for questions will cover a range of concepts and ideas related to creativity and how it can foster connection to self, others, and the world around us. We will explore how the creative arts can form an environment that promotes communication and relationships for people with complex communication needs.

    Presenter

    Claire Fraser

    Claire Fraser believes that creative arts are an underutilised resource that has the power to transform the wellbeing and mental health of people with congenital deafblindness and other complex disabilities. Claire has supported people with disability for twelve years, including as a support worker, educator and therapist. She currently works at Able Australia (a disability organisation offering specific services for the deafblind population) as an Art Therapist and a Deafblind Consultant. 

    Claire is passionate about creating environments and relationships where people feel seen, heard, and understood. Claire uses relative arts modalities such as movement, tactile arts, and sound in combination with relationship building to support deafblind people to express, explore and connect with others, the world around them, and themselves. Claire is committed to using creative arts to address the desperate need for connection and engagement in deafblind people, as well as upskilling and empowering their families and carers.

    In 2022 Claire presented at the National Deafblind Conference in Perth on “Creativity and connection as discovering learning and informing supports for people born deafblind. Claire holds a Master’s degree in Art Therapy from Latrobe University, a Bachelor’s in Applied Science (Disability) and Education (Primary), and a Diploma of Auslan and Deaf studies. Claire is a professionally registered Art Therapist, and in 2022 was recognised with the International Deafblind Youth Leadership Award. She is currently completing training in Video Interaction Guidance to support and strengthen relationships between disability support workers and the people they support. She was recently awarded a Churchill Fellowship the investigate the use of creative arts to improve wellbeing for people born deafblind.

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    45. Rule your iPad with your eyes and Hiru eye-tracker - Presented by IRISBOND and Novita

    LIVE on March 30th, 4pm AEDT. 

    In this workshop we’ll learn how to leverage Apple accessibility tools to create the best user experience with the Hiru eye tracker.  We’ll explore what’s possible with eye gaze in the iPad, tips for fast success, and apps designed with eye gaze in mind.  Discover the possibilities available to rule the world around you with just your gaze, and your iPad!

    Presenters

    Hannah Erickson

    Hannah is originally from Minnesota, USA, but has spent much of her career abroad. She graduated with a Psychology degree from the University of Minnesota in 2013, and after 2 years working in her home state in special education, she spent 6 years as a language trainer for students in Spain and Asia, and coordinated international program exchanges.

    Now at Irisbond, where she has been part of the team for 2 years, Hannah is the Head of Training and Support.  She provides eye gaze product knowledge and support to clients all over the world. 

    Keila Imaz

    Keila is a very enthusiastic person born in the northern part of Spain. She studied business in the University of The Basque Country in 2020, and lived abroad in Poznan, Poland, to continue her studies in the Wyższa Szkoła Bankowa w Poznaniu.

    At Irisbond, where she has been working for 3 years, she has been in close contact with doctors, SLPs, eye-gaze users and families, and AAC companies all around the world


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    46. Tools2Talk Now: Communication aids made easy

    June 13th, 2023, 5pm AEST 

    Tools2Talk Now is an app you can use to create printable communication aids easily and on the go! The app is an enhanced version of Tools2Talk+, featuring the key functions you know and love. The Tools2Talk Now app allows users to create customised communication resources using their own photos from their camera roll or choose from over 35,000 images including Tobii Dynavox Picture Communication Symbols® (PCS) and full Compic image library. This online workshop aims show you key features of the app including how to make communication aids, use the calendar function and the pre-designed templates for quick creation of a range of communication boards.

    Presenter

    Catherine Wilton is speech pathologist working for the Non-Electronic Communication Aid Service at Scope Australia. Her current role includes training and capacity building, partnering with clients, their families and speech pathologists to customise comprehensive and targeted non electronic communication aids and also completing project work.  Catherine has spent her speech pathology career working with people who experience communication and swallowing support needs across the disability and hospital sector.


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    47. Parent coaching for successful AAC use in the early years - Presented by Sam Brydon

    July 10th, 2023, 5pm AEST

    Webinar Overview

    What happens when you introduce a 77-cell core board with fringe vocabulary for pre-school children with complex communication needs and then provide truly comprehensive support to the family?

    Over the past 4 years, Sam has designed and carried out a year-long intervention as part of a multiple case study, with the intention to provide some evidence towards the use of core boards as an AAC tool.

    Once Sam had started this research, she realised that no AAC system can be successful without communication partner support. A large part of her study involved creating a training and coaching package for parents to ensure they knew how to support their child to become a successful AAC user.

    Sam continued to collect maintenance data for a year. The results are now in, the data are analysed and Sam is keen to share them with a wider audience! 

    This presentation will include an overview of the research, some detail about the training and coaching package, and the results obtained for both children and parents, including some really great videos.

    Presenter

    Sam Brydon

    Sam Brydon qualified as a speech language Pathologist in 1993 from Manchester University in England. Since then, she has worked as a social worker and then as a speech language therapist, with over 20 years' experience in the areas of early intervention and, more recently, AAC. Sam emigrated to Aotearoa / New Zealand in 2007. Her passion for evidence-based AAC led her to undertake doctoral research, starting in 2018.

    She has completed a year-long research intervention that looks at using a core board with pre-school children with complex communication needs, alongside a comprehensive training and coaching package for their parents. Sam is currently finishing writing up her thesis and is keen to share the exciting results of her research study. She lives with her partner on a remote hill in the North Island, along with a pack of furry companions.

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    48. ISAAC Cancun Conference Reflections and Learning

    Presented by Jenna O'Brien and Kylie Barsby - August 16th, 2023

    Webinar Overview

    The ISAAC International Conference is always an incredible learning opportunity, bringing together the international AAC community. In 2023, the ISAAC conference is being held in Cancun Mexico, from 24 - 27 July.

    Join us to hear from the Aussies who attended and hear them share their reflections and learning. If you also attended and have reflections to share, join us! This will be an interactive, discussion-based zoom meeting and all AGOSCI members are welcome to participate.

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    49. How can communication supports help people who do not speak to build relationships - Presented by Sheree Henley and Harriet Korner

    Recorded live on October 3, 2023

    Webinar Overview

    This webinar will be presented by Sheree Henley, founder of The Good Life Builders and mother to Isaac, a 25 year old man that does not use speech to communicate. She will be co presenting with Harriet Korner who is a speech therapist with over 30 years of experience. Harriet runs her own consulting business and provides coaching and mentoring services for people with disability, speech therapists, teachers, disability support workers and families.

    When a person does not use spoken words to communicate, building relationships can be challenging. Support workers have an important role in creating environments that encourage communication for the purpose of building relationships.

    Unfortunately, support workers sometimes have little experience in alternative communication or in supporting the development of relationships. So how can we families help support workers to do this role better?

    In this webinar, Sheree and Harriet will share:

    • Mindset beliefs that support workers need to have to do this role well
    • Common objections people have to using AAC and how to overcome them
    • Building fluency in using alternative communication methods
    • Techniques for supporting conversations between your family member with a disability and people in the community that go beyond just saying hi.

    Webinar Details

    This is a recorded 60 minute webinar, free for AGOSCI members to access, and open to non-members for a small fee.

    Presenters

    Sheree Henley is mother of 26 year old Isaac who is a delivery man, Canberra Raiders fan, much loved member of a local community garden club and who also uses alternative communication to speak. Sheree has been collaborating with speech therapists and Isaac's support workers to implement AAC and support Isaac to have his voice for most of his life. She's discovered a few hints and tips for parents on the AAC implementation journey.

    Sheree will be co presenting with Harriet Korner.

    Harriet Korner is a speech therapist with over 30 years of experience. Harriet runs her own consulting business and provides coaching and mentoring services for people with disability, speech therapists, teachers, disability support workers and families.



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    50. Tips for people who use AAC - Presented by Dale Gonelli

    Recorded live on October 6, 2023 

    Webinar Overview

    Join Dale for this 30 minute webinar about his lived experience learning of using AAC, including tips on what he's learnt over the years from other people. Dale will share personal experiences over the years and some funny stories as well.  

    Dale wants to present this webinar because he sees that people have ideas about best ways to teach AAC. Speech-language Pathologists are fantastic but they don’t live with the communication device.

    Dale will be talking about his 10 tips for AAC, that will be helpful for families and professionals to hear. 

    Join Dale and AGOSCI for this AAC Awareness Month webinar!

    Presenter

    Dale Gonelli is a communication device owner / communicator. He always loves to do drama and putting on plays. Since the age of 8 he has used a communication device in drama activities. He has performed at the Brisbane Powerhouse, with Contact Inc, and has been a mentor at 'Camp Have a Chat' for many years.

    In 2021 Dale started working as a Liberator Ambassador, modelling use of the Minspeak Unity program on the Accent 1400 by using a switch at his knee with a scanning program on the communication device. In 2022 Dale was accepted and completed the Queensland Disability Network (QDN) – Emerging Leaders Program and currently volunteers as a local co-peer group convenor.

    Dale has been involved with, attended and given presentations at AGOSCI conferences since 2005. In 2022, Dale joined AGOSCI as an AAC mentor, and continues in that role in 2023. This is Dale's first public presentation as an AGOSCI AAC mentor.

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    51. Mint Slice Genius! Nell's tales of the cheeky human spirit! - Presented by Nell McMillan

    October 10, 2023 Register here

    Webinar Overview

    Dare to dream to dance through life and say it how it is, her way.

    Communication is no barrier to be successful in “World Normal”.

    Nell would like to share her life tales of her guts and fighting against the odds to make an impact in the world. Believe in self belief.

    Join us to celebrate AAC Awareness Month 2023 with Nell. 

    Presenter

    Nell is an artist, children's author, ABC writer, advocate and she also has an Order of Australia for her fundraising work for charities such as breast cancer.

    Nell lives in a crazy body that has a mind of its own due to Cerebral Palsy. She has never used any communication device in her adult life to achieve what Nell has done so far. Nell uses partner assisted communication to get her messages and thoughts across in "World Normal".

    By creating artwork and storytelling, Nell is able to show what non-verbal people are capable of doing. She hopes that this will shift perspectives, change attitudes and contribute to more inclusive practices in businesses and the community. Nell's aim is to help people with disabilities to overcome their limitations and be able to achieve what they want to in life.

    Nell has recently begun as the AGOSCI AAC Communicator Co-Rep and the Coordinator for the AGOSCI Mentors Program. She is looking forward to her roles, she hopes that she will be able to grow the AGOSCI vision with her knowledge and help the community to live in a more inclusive world.

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    52. AAC: A powerful tool - Presented by Sid Chandran

    Recorded live on October 18, 2023

    Webinar Overview

    In this webinar, Sid discusses his discovery of an alternative system of communication that worked for him. In this webinar he speaks about the way AAC has helped him to access the community. AAC, he says, is powerful. Sid will present on how he has used AAC to advocate for 'non-speakers' and to participate in the community. Sid has produced a book about his lived experience of Autism and his use of AAC. This webinar will explore these topics from Sid's book, and discuss Sid's experience of being an author. The webinar will include some excerpts from Sid's book.

    Sid contributes to AGOSCI as an AAC Mentor. This webinar is Sid's first public event as an AGOSCI AAC Mentor. Join us to celebrate AAC Awareness Month 2023 with Sid. 

    Presenter

    Sidharth is an autistic man who spent his early years without a formal means of communication. During his early school years, he attended autistic schools and completed his schooling at special schools.

    He has a great curiosity about the nature of autism and the way it affects him. He says he wants to make a contribution to the understanding of autism. His recently published book An Unspoken Story documents his struggles with the severe communication and sensory challenges of autism. It also deals with his discovery of an alternative system of communication that worked for him. He discusses this at length in his book and in this webinar. He states that AAC made a positive difference to his life. It helped him to connect with the world. Sid is learning to advocate for himself and access the wider world outside his inner circle through AAC.

    Sidharth grew up in Sydney where he has spent all of his life. He loves the outdoors and music. He loves sports such as skating, swimming and biking. He enjoys writing and considers writing to be his vocation. Sidharth has a website at Unspokenstory.com.au 

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    53. AAC: A journey that takes a lifetime - Presented by Joseph Reynolds
    Recorded on October 24, 2023 

    Webinar Overview

    Everyone’s AAC journey is unique and Joseph’s was too. He has used a variety of different systems over the years, from some low-tech paper based options through to electronic devices. Joseph’s journey with AAC has also coincided with the evolution and development of AAC devices. He also has had some challenges over the years with implementing AAC into schools and the community. Joseph shares anecdotes along with some tips and tricks for the implementation of AAC into everyday life.

    Joseph contributes to AGOSCI as an AAC Mentor. This webinar is Joseph's first public event as an AGOSCI AAC Mentor. Join us to celebrate AAC Awareness Month 2023 with Joseph. This session will include time for questions. 

    Presenter

    Joseph lives with his parents and two siblings in Hobart, Tasmania. He uses an iPad to do everyday tasks such as communicating with people around him, writing emails and working on projects that interest him. Joseph has Cerebral Palsy, for him it only affects him physically and not his intellectual capacity. His family and community has shown patience with his communication and encouraged him to express his opinion, especially in recent years.

    Joseph is active in the AAC space having presented as one of the keynote speakers at the AGOSCI conference in Hobart in 2022. He has been working as an AAC mentor with the Variety Motor Mouth Camps in Tasmania and has recently been employed as a casual Teacher Assistant in the local support school, specifically for his AAC skill set.

    Joseph has a keen interest in photo manipulation as well as creating digital art. He likes comedy shows such as Brooklyn Nine Nine and enjoys the occasional Boost Juice.

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    54. Voiceitt2 Spontaneous Speech Recognition technology for Non-Standard Speakers - Presented by Rachel Levy
    November 8, 2023 

    Many people in the AGOSCI community prefer to communicate with their natural speech, rather than using speech generating devices. For those with 'non-standard' speech, it can be difficult for unfamiliar communication partners to understand their message. Speech supports might include communication partners and AAC systems to supplement natural speech. More recently, voice to text technologies have also become more accessible as an assistive technology for 'revoicing' natural speech.

    AGOSCI has partnered with Voiceitt to provide our members with an update on the Voiceitt spontaneous speech-to-text technologies.

    This webinar is designed for health professionals. In this webinar, Rachel explains how individuals with 'non-standard' speech can use this communication tool as a support.

    Following this webinar, attendees will be able to:

    • Describe the communicative functions of the Voiceitt spontaneous speech web app 

    • Understand the individuals whom this software is designed to support

    • Get information about how to get started with the Voiceitt technology.

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    55. Eye-gaze control technology opportunities and service provision: Perspectives of people with cerebral palsy and their communication partners

    January 31st, 2024

    In this webinar, the research team will share findings from their recent study about experiences of people with cerebral palsy and their communication partners about eye-gaze control technology.

    The research team asked about assessment, trials, ongoing use of the technology, goals, and the range of things people are doing with their technology. The study was supported by the 2023 AGOSCI Research Grant.

    With consumer research partner Avril Parry, the research team will discuss participant perspectives on what works well and what does not, and considerations for how to improve eye-gaze technology service provision. They will ask for your perspectives on how they can best share these findings so that clinicians and users can benefit.

    Join the conversation to optimise the eye-gaze control technology journey for people with cerebral palsy.

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    56. Avaz AAC: an overview - Presented by CEO Narayanan Ramakrishnan

    February 22nd, 2024

    Avaz is a picture and text-based AAC app that empowers children and adults with complex communication needs to express themselves and learn.

    Join this webinar to learn more about the Avaz AAC app, and where it might fit in your AAC toolkit.

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