Workshops

New Castle County ATRC Workshops

Adaptive Recreation Equipment - Let's explore Abledata to search for details on where to purchase adaptive toys and recreation equipment with Carol Barnett of NCC Parks & Recreation.

Adaptive Toys - An introduction to adaptive toys exploring a selection of toys available for all ages. Learn how to operate battery-powered toys with jelly bean and other single switches.

Advanced Dynavox Workshop - Learn advanced features of the Dynavox Augmentative Communication Device with Sentient Systems representative Deb Bassett.

DeltaTalker Augmentative Communication Device Training - Learn the basics of how to operate, program, and customize the DeltaTalker with Prentke Romich representative Nancy Inman.

Digivox Training - Deb Bassett of Sentient Systems will provide an overview on the Digivox Augmentative Communication Device.

Dynavox 2 Training - Learn the exciting features of the New Dynavox 2 Augmentative Communication Device. Training provided through Sentient Systems representative Deb Bassett.

Intro to Dynavox Basics - A presentation by Sentient Systems representative Deb Bassett on the operation and applications of the Dynavox augmentative communication device.

Simple Adaptations - Robert Czetli, Delaware Elwyn's Rehabilitation Engineer, will demonstrate how to make simple adaptations to your computer using joysticks, computer interfaces, and more.

Unity for Life Training - An introduction to Prentke Romich's newest Vocabulary Program "UNITY."

Kent County ATRC Workshops

*Adapted Toy Workshop - This workshop will introduce attendees to toys available for children with disabilities as well as the many types of ability switches used to access them. This hands on workshop will provide each participant with tools and a kit that includes a toy to be adapted as well as materials for making their own ability switch to be used with the toy. Each person will leave with not only a switch and toy, but an understanding of basic electric circuits and soldering.

*Communication Workshop - Attendees at this workshop will receive an introduction to the field of Augmentative Communication. A variety of electronic communication devices will be demonstrated, and discussion will focus on choosing the right device, the job of the Speech Language Pathologist, symbol systems, and vocabulary development. Participants will have an opportunity to program the communication devices.

*Computer Access Workshop - The computer can open new doors for people with disabilities. This workshop will show the many ways in which a person with a disability can access the computer. Forms of access will include alternate keyboards, mouse emulating devices, voice access, Morse code, and single switch access for both Macintosh and IBM and compatible computers. Attendees will learn that anyone can have access to a computer regardless of the severity of disability.

Computer Basics Workshop - If you would like to know the simple facts about computers, this workshop is for you. The purpose of this workshop is to simplify computer terminology and provide you with the basic information necessary to choose a computer and software to meet your needs.

*Intro to AT- An AT device is any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of those individuals with disabilities. This workshop will introduce participants to a variety of AT available for people with disabilities. Technology for cooking, dressing, cleaning, bathing and recreation will be demonstrated. Discussion will include applications of AT and related services.

*Sensory Impairments - Technology for people with sensory impairments includes magnification and Braille for people with blindness and low vision as well as alerting and amplification for people with hearing impairments. A wide range of technology will be discussed and demonstrated, from a hand held magnifier to a talking computer that reads printed material to the user.

Sensory Impairments - An all day workshop focusing on technology for people with sensory impairments. Jim Tyler from Delaware Hearing Consultants will discuss technology available to accommodate those with hearing loss. Ed Jory from the Division for the Visually Impaired will demonstrate equipment for those with blindness or low vision. Ed Salisbury from DATI will demonstrate telecommunications options for those with hearing or speech impairments. CEU credits.

Sign Language & Communication - This workshop will provide an overview of the use of sign language in facilitating language development and functional communication skills for children and adults with speech and language delays. Participants will acquire a basic sign language vocabulary of 200-300 signs.

*Evenings through Kent County Parks & Recreation. Cost: $15

Sussex County ATRC Workshops

AT in the Work Place - Attendees at this workshop will learn the many ways in which the workplace can be made accessible for people with disabilities. Equipment demonstrations will range from an electric stapler to a voice activated computer. Seating, ergonomics and prevention of repetitive strain injuries will also be discussed. DigiVox - Introduction to this augmentative communication device from Sentient Systems.

Other Activities

For brochures and additional information, contact the University of Virginia's Division of Continuing Education at (804) 982-5313.

Closing the Gap Conference For more information contact: Closing The Gap
P. O. Box 68
Henderson, MN 56044
(612) 248-3294.