Empowering individuals with disabilities, including those with neurodiversity such as autism, ADHD, and TBI, to succeed in post-secondary transitions requires intentional implementation of assistive technology (AT) supports. This presentation will explore how a curated digital toolbox can set students up for success in vocational rehabilitation and higher education. Participants will gain practical strategies for assessing individual needs, selecting appropriate AT tools, and fostering digital literacy. Evidence-based practices will highlight how AT solutions, including built-in accessibility features, text-to-speech, organizational apps, and productivity software, promote independence and improve outcomes. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles will be integrated to demonstrate how AT can benefit a wide range of learners. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to create personalized digital toolboxes that bridge the gap between secondary education.
Learning Outcomes
- Identify the role of assistive technology in supporting executive functioning, literacy, and productivity for post-secondary transitions.
- Apply the SETT framework to assess individual technology needs and select appropriate AT solutions
- Explore evidence-based digital tools, including built-in accessibility features, and strategies for fostering independence in vocational and academic settings.
Join us for an insightful presentation on supporting neurodivergent adults in their employment journey. This session is designed for caregivers, family members, and professionals who assist adults with autism and other neurodiversities in finding and maintaining meaningful employment. We'll explore the unique challenges these individuals may face in the workplace and provide practical strategies for success. The presentation will follow the natural progression of the employment process – from effective job searching techniques to interview preparation and workplace success strategies. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of how to support neurodivergent adults throughout their career journey and concrete tools to help them thrive in the workplace.
Learning Outcomes
- Participants will be able to identify at least 3 areas where an employee with autism might struggle in the workplace.
- Participants will be able to explain a minimum of 5 strategies/supports to provide to an employee with autism in the workplace
- Participants will be able to describe supports to provide to a person with autism who is in need of locating a job.
This interactive presentation will discuss ways that multidisciplinary teams can meaningfully engage with Diné during the Autism diagnostic process. Researchers at NAU recently received a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health titled AHAA: Advancing Hózhó in Autism Assessment for Diné Families. Through this grant, an observation guide was developed as a set of practices and processes to implement when collaborating with Diné families who have a child being assessed for Autism. It was developed using data gathered through observing assessments, interviewing clinicians who conduct assessments and work with Diné families, and reviewing relevant research. During this session, the elements of the observation guide will be shared and attendees will have the opportunity to share their perspectives and experiences working with Diné families.
Learning Outcomes
- Attendees will be able to identify strategies for supporting Diné families in the Autism diagnostic process.
- Attendees will be able to identify the development and purpose of the AHAA observation guide.
- Attendees will be able to gather and share insights and perspectives from working with Diné families in Autism assessments.
This interactive workshop empowers participants to create equitable and inclusive learning environments for all students, including those with disabilities. Participants will explore the crucial role of representation and accessibility in curriculum and pedagogy, engaging in hands-on activities and case study analysis to foster dialogue about inclusivity. We will examine the impact of diverse perspectives and inclusive practices on classroom dynamics, student engagement, and belonging. Through collaborative discussion and reflection, participants will develop actionable strategies to assess and enhance their teaching practices, cultivating supportive classrooms in higher education where every student thrives. This session focuses on practical strategies to improve access, attitudes, and inclusion in higher education for students with disabilities.
Learning Outcomes
- Identify and implement inclusive teaching strategies, including UDL principles and assistive technology, that enhance student engagement, belonging, and academic success for diverse learners, including students with disabilities.
- Analyze the impact of diverse perspectives, including those of individuals with disabilities, in curriculum design, classroom dynamics, and student interactions, recognizing both challenges and opportunities.
- Develop a personalized action plan for fostering equity in their educational practices, including specific steps for self-reflection, curriculum adaptation, classroom management, and collaboration with disability service providers.
The neurodiversity movement has gained a lot of attention in the past few years. But what does that word actually mean? And what does it mean for your clinical practice? Led by a neurodivergent SLP, this presentation will invite participants to explore and learn about the basics of the neurodiversity movement. Participants will delve into language of the movement, basic principles of the movement, as well as characteristics of neuro-affirming care. This is a space to have your questions about neurodiversity answered as we learn and unlearn together!
Learning Outcomes
- Participants will be able to define and apply vocabulary terms relevant to the neurodiversity movement.
- Participants will identify guiding principles of the neurodiversity movement.
- Participants will identify characteristics of neurodiversity affirming therapy and goals.
- Participants will determine appropriate resources to facilitate deeper, ongoing learning of the neurodiversity movement.
