UNIT 1- IPAD FOR COMMUNICATION
The Purpose for using an Ipad for communication
Using the I pad for communication is a form of Augmentative and Alternate Communication (AAC) which can facilitate many communication needs. AAC can be described as "People with severe speech or language problems rely on AAC to supplement existing speech or replace speech that is not functional. Special augmentative aids, such as picture and symbol communication boards and electronic devices, are available to help people express themselves. This may increase social interaction, school performance, and feelings of self-worth." (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association) Using the I pad for communication is a more updated device. Students still use a Dynovax which is a communication device used primarily for non verbal children. The Dynavox is very expensive and not accessible to all students will communication disorders. Today we have I pads which can be used for communication and also to access the internet. The I pad is much less expensive than the Dynavox and offers much more for the viewer. The I pad offers many different applications which you can buy in order to help non verbal students interact.
Giving an example: Many students in the classroom who are non verbal may not have an I pad or a device because the parent may not see the overall outcome of using the I pad. Some teachers may use flashcards for students to communicate. For example the student may point to the picture of what they desire. Having picture cards doesn’t give the child the immediate feedback of an auditory answer. Having this portable device allows for students to bring it anywhere they need. Whether it’s in a store, restaurant, outside, or in the classroom it allows for them to communicate like anyone else. The I pad can hold numerous amounts of applications used for communication and learning.
Here is a great video giving reasons why an Ipad is great for communication
While watching the video please pause the video whenever needed to be able to read and understand what is being taught.
VIDEO: Using the Ipad
How to decide which application is right for you.
You want to make sure that the application you chose is right for the student you are working with. When choosing your application choice keep in mind you are choosing for the students you are working with.
Here are some features you would want to look for when deciding on a communication application
- Basic Communication and Core Word.
- Easy step by step directions in developing set up.
- Good reviews from the application users
- Built-in natural sounding Text to Speech voices
- Supports text-based communication with advanced, self-learning multi-word prediction for typing full paragraphs in Typing View.
- Access via touch (tapping), adaptive switch and adjustable direct touch.
- Multi-user support makes it easy for therapists and teachers to support multiple users on one device.
- Automatic conjugation of verbs
- Automatic plurals and possessives for nouns.
- Page and button level control over appearance.
- Easy and fast organization of the vocabulary .
- Extensive customization options: number of columns (1-12) and rows (1-12), color, ordering, interactivity, restrictions, speech.
- One-button addition of new vocabulary buttons and folders
- Recents View for quick access to recently spoken items all the way up to one week back.
- Social sharing support enables users to share text from the Proloquo2Go message window using email, Facebook, SMS and Twitter and to copy and past text into other apps.
- Easy importing and exporting.
- The price of the application and is it worth it? (Make sure to read reviews)
Assessment
Assessment 1
Here are seven applications students may use for communication and learning. Please click on a few applications and review them. While looking at the application remember what I said to look for. Always keep your student in mind when deciding on an application. Decide for yourself, which application would work best for my students?
In the discussion area located at the top of the page (discussion tab) please copy and paste the following question and give an answer.
After reviewing the following applications explain in detail the pros and cons about the application. Please evaluate at least 3.
Assessment 2
Self Assessment
You can respond to these questions by clicking on the discussion tab on top of the page.
Question 1:
What is the main purpose of using an Ipad for communication?
Question 2:
After going through the applications, which one would you choose for a child with a severe speech disorder? and why would you choose that application?
If you are able to answer these questions without any problems then move on to Unit 2. If you are unsure of your answers, please reread and review again.
Links
Move on to Unit 2: UNIT2- IS THE IPAD THE BEST COMMUNICATION DEVICE TO USE?