WHAT: The University of Iowa College of Education ’s Iowa Center for Assistive Technology Education and Research (ICATER) will host an Assistive Technology Summer Institute in Red Oak, Iowa, to address assistive technology issues in education.
The institute will also address specific use and implementation of different types of assistive technology (AT) through a unique blend of lectures, discussions, and hands-on experiences. Issues covered will include using technology to implement Universal Design for Learning, AT solutions for students with dyslexia, a mobile device workshop, navigating iPod and iPad app options; social media as an AT resource, and more.
ICATER staff will create onsite labs showing how to implement and use products in the classroom setting. These products include Dragon Naturally Speaking, Kurzweill 3000, Read and Write Gold, Free Text readers, Blio, Clicker 6, iPods and iPads, and Smart Pen.
WHO: The institute is expected to draw approximately 30 educators, parents, and other professionals such as speech pathologists, occupational therapists, AEA special education consultants and service providers, and more from the Red Oak area.
It will be hosted by Kiersten Hensley and Jennifer Andersen, College of Education graduate students specializing in assistive technology. Hensley is from Des Moines, Iowa, and Andersen is from Franksville, Wisconsin.
WHEN: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, June 18 and 19
WHERE: The Red Oak Regional Area Education Agency, 212 E. Coolbaugh Street in Red Oak.
WHY: ICATER is a technology and universal design resource for all members of the education community to build learner capacity and increase access to learning opportunities. Powerful assistive technology can greatly increase learning and reduce barriers for all students, especially those with disabilities.
CONTACT: Kiersten Hensley, special education doctoral candidate, University of Iowa College of Education, 515-771-0233 (cell).
NOTE TO EDITORS AND TV NEWS DIRECTORS: This will provide visual, interactive opportunities to get photos or footage of participants working with assistive technology as well to interview organizers and participants.