PATINS PROJECT -Rapid Fire-

Controlling Your SMARTBoard w/Your iPad: 

This is a question I’ve received several times actually.  It’s a little bit confusing so I like to first make sure that folks understand what the smartboard actually is.  There’s no computer in the smartboard, rather the smartboard is connected to a computer and it controls the computer it is connected to.  So, think of the smartboard like a mouse/keyboard/monitor all in one.  You can control the computer and you can see what the computer is doing with the smartboard, but you don’t control the smartboard.

So, what you might really be asking isn’t so much how you can “control the smartboard,” but rather, “can you control the computer with an iPad.”  The simple answer is, not really.  There are things that exist such as Go To My PC, HippoRemote, Keymote, Remote Jr., which could allow you to do something like what you’re asking, but not really.  I don’t think it’d quite do what most have in mind.  To be honest though, I need to spend more time exploring this area and plan to do so over the next couple of weeks.

You  COULD mirror or show what’s happening on the iPad, on the smartboard.  That’s much easier and either requires a simple little connector that you plug the projector’s cable into OR an Apple TV, which the iPad can connect to wirelessly and play through the projector to display the content that is in the iPad.  In the meantime, here’s a great link with some tools addressing this issue:  http://mashable.com/2010/02/28/iphone-remote-control-apps/

Braille Valentines Available:  Everyone likes to receive a Valentine, why not include some braille on yours this year for as little as $10?  Details on the PDF Flyer here:  Valentine from NBP 2012

Disability Resource Fair: INSource’s Annual Disability Resource Fair in Anderson, IN will take place on March 3, 2012 from 9am – 1pm.  Contact with questions: mmattingly.advocate@gmail.com   See Event Flyer Here: INSource Anderson Flyer 2012  Come see PATINS there along with many other service providers.

Apple in K-12!  More than likely, you’ve heard bits and pieces of Apple’s announcement yesterday concerning textbooks.  There are some very exciting things happening, but I also want to remind everyone that Digital does NOT always equal Accessible and that copyright and intellectual property should still be very real concerns/considerations.  Here’s some links:

• More about iBooks2 and Apple’s Announcement: http://arstechnica.com/apple/news/2012/01/apple-announces-ibooks-2-to-reinvent-textbooks.ars?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss
• A Nice Video From Apple:  www.apple.com/education/#video-textbooks
• Copyright & Creative Commons: http://creativecommons.org/
• USDOE and NIMAS: http://idea.ed.gov/explore/view/p/,root,dynamic,QaCorner,5,

REGISTRATION OPEN!  Registration is now open for the PATINS Tech Expo 2012 on April 19!

• Download Informational Flyer Here
• REGISTER HERE!

A GoTalk on your iPad: New App I came across recently from Attainment that sort of turns your iPad into a GoTalk.  Interesting to me because the GoTalk is one of my most favorite low-tech/static display AAC devices and the iPad is absolutely one of my favorite high-tech devices!   http://attainmentcompany.com/featured/GoTalkNow/ It, however, is not free.  $79.99.  I do plan to eventually have it on my iPads for loan though, so feel free to request away!  PATINS Lending Libraries.

Alexicom App:  Speaking of AAC Apps on the iPad, this is another one I’ve recently started loaning out on my iPads and iTouches.  It seems like it might be a good fit for the SLP’s who work with students on the autism spectrum (or other disabilities of course) who want to utilize real images/photos instead of symbols.  It’s a FREE APP.  Here: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/alexicom-aac/id395122088?mt=8

Apps Running In The Background: The PATINS Central Site Coordinator, Jeff Bond, came across a very interesting article about those apps that you leave running in the background.  Typically, I always tell people to go in and close them down every so often, but this article presents some information that may contradict that advice in some instances.  Have a read:

• www.macworld.com/article/164616/2012/01/how_ios_multitasking_really_works.html

Yesterday’s Webinar:  I have to apologize to those who were registered for the PATINS webinar scheduled for 1/12/12 at 3:15pm EST,  “Audio, Audio, Audio.” 

Unfortunately, at about 2:45pm we lost all internet service in my office building.  I tried everything I could to fix the situation until 3pm and then decided I would try to drive to the local McDonald’s and utilize their WiFi, but quickly found that it was also down!   I sincerely apologize for that inconvenience and am rescheduling yesterday’s webinar for 3 different upcoming dates.  I hope that everyone who was hoping to attend yesterday will be able to find at least one of these 3 new dates that will work with your schedule and even if you weren’t planning on attending yesterday, perhaps one of these 3 new dates will interest you!   You are welcome to share these 3 new dates for this webinar with any of your colleagues you think may be interested as well.  The first one is coming up quickly on this coming Monday afternoon!

1. Monday Jan. 16, 3:15pm.  Register: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AudioJanuary162012REGISTRATION 
2. Monday Jan. 30, 3:15pm. Register: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AudioJan302012REGISTRATION 
3. Friday Feb. 3, 3:15pm. Register: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AudioFeb32012REGISTRATION
   

NOW AVAILABLE; The FREE ePub Converter Upgrade:   DRMS can now go to the ICAM Website for a FREE upgraded version 2.0 of their aDAISY to ePub Converter!   This new upgrade handles many more file types and should be much more efficient at converting some of those stubborn NIMAS files we’ve had trouble with in the past.  So far, we are VERY impressed with it!

• Free ePub Converter 2.0 Upgrade:  www.icam.k12.in.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=78&Itemid=106

People Traveling w/Disabilities:  The Transportation Security Administration has  launched TSA Cares, a new helpline number designed to assist travelers with disabilities and medical conditions.

•  Travelers may call TSA Cares toll free at 1-855-787-2227 prior to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint. TSA Cares will serve as an additional, dedicated resource specifically for passengers with disabilities, medical conditions or other circumstances or their loved ones who want to prepare for the screening process prior to flying.

•  The hours of operation for the TSA Cares helpline are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. EST, excluding federal holidays. Travelers who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service to contact TSA Cares or can e-mail TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov.

•  If you would like to make advance arrangements for screenings at airports,  travelers can contact TSA using Talk To TSA <https://apps.tsa.dhs.gov/talktotsa/> , a web-based tool that allows passengers to reach out to an airport Customer Service Manager directly, and the TSA Contact Center, 1-866-289-9673 and TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov, where travelers can ask questions, provide suggestions and file complaints

Almost Happy New Year!  Do you have anything in particular on your list of things you want to accomplish in 2012 regarding the education of students in your district?  One great start, might be taking the PATINS PROJECT ACCESSIBLE PLEDGE if you haven’t already and if you have, then find someone else in your building and talk to them about the importance of accessibility in the classroom and ask them to consider taking the pledge:

Accessible Instruction: EVERY Educator’s Responsibility

Once you have completed the pledge which is only 4 questions, then your name goes into a drawing for an IPAD 2 to be drawn January 13th.  Join the PATINS Project as we take the Accessible Instruction Pledge.

I pledge to do my part to bring accessible instruction to all students.   Click here to take the Accessible Instruction Pledge.

By completing this form, I pledge that at every opportunity I will…

• Understand the individual needs and abilities of learners to ensure that my instruction is accessible to all students
• Advocate for accessible instructional materials
• Choose to purchase materials that have accessible versions available
• Create documents and handouts that can be read and completed using assistive technology
• Support others in their efforts to learn more about supplying accessible instructional materials
• Maintain an accessible website

Grant County Family Fun Night: Parents and families of children with autism, there is a Family Fun Night March 13, 2012 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at the Indiana Wesleyan University Marion Campus Barnes Student Center.  More info available in January.

Read:OutLoud Tip:  By now, most people know that the great text to speech (and more) program called Read:OutLoud has been available to put on all of your district’s computers and your students’ computers at home at NO COST.  Keep in mind that we can quickly and easily provide training for you on ROL both in-person and online.  Here’s a quick tip that I recently worked on for one teacher in particular that I thought others might benefit from.

1. Teacher has a MS Word Document Test or Quiz.  This would be a .doc or .docx file format.
2. ROL will not open MS Word Documents
3. OPen the Document in MS Word and then Go to File, Save As, and then save it as a DIFFERENT file type, such as RTF or PDF
4. In some cases, RTF format may NOT preserve enough formatting when opened in ROL.  For example, you might lose bullets, numbering or outlining.
5. In many of those cases, I’ve found it to work much better if I save the MS Word Document as a PDF.
6. The PDF (or RTF) should now open fine for you in ROL with Text To Speech and all of the other great ROL tools.
7. Here’s a very quick video I made on doing this process: http://www.patinsproject.com/Videos/NE_TTAVids/ROLElkhartTTA1/ROLElkhartTTA1.html
   

Create An iPad Microscope for less than $10: (Video)  http://youtu.be/sAqN8ihAFv8

QR Codes In Class:  If you’ve got any iPads, iTouches or other tablet or smartphone of any kind with a camera, consider getting a Free QR Code Reader such as “Scan” on those devices.  Then, go to one of the many free websites for CREATING QR Codes, like “Kaywa” and create some codes FOR THE PURPOSE of Hardlinking.   Hardlinking is the new way to link.  It is the linking of the online world with the  ‘real’ world.  Link student papers with online follow up resources or link spots in the classroom such as the class pet’s home with online info about that animal.  Be creative and let us know what you come up with by posting comments back here on the blog!

Keep In Mind!

• PATINS Tech Expo: April 19, 2011 Save The Date!
• PATINS State Conference: Nov 8-9, 2012 Save The Date!
• LOTS of PATINS FREE Trainings in 2012:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=38&Itemid=30 
• Interstate Webinar from Ohio on Acquiring and Using Digital Text: Learn more and register  Jan 19 3 pm

Be Safe, Relax, and Enjoy a few more days with your families and friends and I’ll hopefully see many of you again for the second semester! 

Comments, Suggestions, Ideas For PATINS?

SAVE THE DATE NOW!  It is my pleasure to announce on this Friday before the Holidays that the The PATINS State Conference will once again take place in Indianapolis on November 8-9, 2012!  Mark your calendars now and watch for more information to come!   The theme is, “Accessible Instruction: Every Educator’s Responsibility.” 

Free ePub Converter Upgrade:  Our friends at Don Johnston have offered Indiana a very nice early Christmas gift!  Be on the watch for a free upgraded version of their DAISY to ePub Converter available through the ICAM soon!  This new upgrade should handle many more file types and should be much more efficient at converter some of those stubborn NIMAS files we’ve had trouble with in the past.  So far, we are VERY impressed with it!

Benefits of Using Transcripts:  Do you or does your school or district publish video or audio content online?  If so, have you considered posting transcripts with them?  Posting Transcripts with your audio/video content online can offer several benefits, some of which you may not have ever considered before.  In addition to offering increased accessibility to your content, transcripts can be an organizational asset by improving Search Engine Optimization (SEO):

• •Search Engines can index a transcript better than audio or video content.
  •Can benefit people without enough bandwidth for the audio or video to stream smoothly.
  •Some will skim a transcript, but not watch full video or audio.

Accessible Presentations?  Somewhat related to using transcripts for your posted video and audio is the issue of making sure your presentations are ACCESSIBLE AND making sure that if you’re still teaching your students to build powerpoint presentations, that you are definitely teaching them the importance of making them accessible!  I wonder how many teachers who still require their students to create powerpoint presentations include a requirement to make them accessible?  Here’s a few tips that should get you started:

• Keep in mind that your audience may have difficulty: Moving, Seeing, Hearing, Speaking or Responding, Taking Notes, Processing or Understanding
• Keep your face visible, speak slow and clear, minimize use of jargon and acronyms, Pause between topics for processing time.
• Use a Mic
• Always repeat comments or questions from the audience who might not be using a mic
• Always describe all visuals whether they are on your slides or elsewhere in the room
• Cover all info on all slides verbally
• Other considerations that I’ll continue with in the future include, making sure your handouts are accessible, making sure contrast, text size, placement, amount of text etc, meets the guidelines.

Too Young for Technology?  …not if you asked me OR these Kindergarteners learning about butterflies!

1.  The Process: http://vimeo.com/30676458  
2. The Final Product: http://vimeo.com/32850366

APPS! Last week, our NW PATINS Site Coordinator, Jim Lambert, hosted an informal gathering in his Second Life PATINS Office where a discussion about Apps and iPads took place.  He was kind enough to share this listing of apps that resulted from the discussion.  Remember that these types of discussions are going on all the time… almost every week on the PATINS Second Life Island.  Check out each of the PATINS Regional Web Pages for dates, locations and topics.  It’s pretty fun.

• Jim’s Apps List: Jim’s App List Dec 2011
• PATINS Regional Website Pages:
• • SE PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=33&Itemid=34 
  • SW PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=34&Itemid=38
  • CE PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=32&Itemid=36
  • NE PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=30&Itemid=35
  • NW PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=31&Itemid=39

IREAD-3/ISTEP Accomodations:  See Appendix C in the Program Manual, which starts on page 54 and can be downloaded here:

• www.doe.in.gov/assessment/docs/2011-12_istep_program_manual_11-30-11_final_kc2.pdf
• Or, here is Appendix C ONLY, extracted from the Program Manual for quicker reference: Appendix C Only from 2011-12_istep_program_manual_11-30-11
• REMEMBER that all Large Print or Braille requests for the Spring 2012 are DUE MONDAY Dec 19th, 2011
• Other IREAD3 Resources Here: www.doe.in.gov/assessment/iread_resources.html

After recently having my handwriting and my signature corrected and rejected…(seriously) by an elementary school teacher, I spent a little time reflecting on what we might actually be spending our time and effort on in many classrooms and what it is that we might actually be measuring.  In my particular example, instead of being evaluated on whether I read and signed an important document (the important part) I was being evaluated on my handwriting skills (the much less important part).  I felt frustrated, cheated, misunderstood and a little angry.  I instantly knew how many of our students must feel in classrooms.  Granted, my handwriting skills leave a bit to be desired.  Yes, that is truly my handwriting above.  However, what really mattered in this case was my involvement in reading and understanding the document, not in my ability to produce a handwritten signature.  In short, I felt that I was being measured against something other than what I was told was the primary objective.  I wonder how many students feel this way every day in our classrooms?  How many feel like they know concepts and techniques and information that they are unable to demonstrate?  How many know how to acquire and assimilate new content, but maybe not in the traditional ways?  Are we treating these students fairly by telling them they will be measured on their ability to spell, but then we actually measure their ability to hand-write on that spelling test?  The cartoon above, that many of you have probably seen in the past, demonstrates this idea in a very simple way.  Here’s a few related links and resources as you consider the idea of Fairness not always meaning Equal or Same and also about making assumptions about what students may or may not know.

• IN DOE Position On Cursive Writing (April 25, 2011):  www.doe.in.gov/super/2011/04-April/29/documents/memo_cursive_writing.pdf
• …and IN isn’t the only state:  www.corestandards.org/in-the-states 
• A Posting from Adapting Creatively about assuming what a child knows or doesn’t know: http://adaptingcreatively.blogspot.com/2011/12/why-parents-must-never-make-assumptions.html
• Comments?  Ideas?  Suggestions? Here: http://svy.mk/GeneralComments 

Doing More With Less:  Many of us probably share a similar feeling that we are often being asked to accomplish more with less time, money and resources than we had last year in our districts, our schools our classrooms.  Here’s a great little video about taking a close look at something/anything that you’re already spending even a small amount of time doing and then trying to be creative about accomplishing multiple things with that one task. Check it out:

Acquiring and Using Digital Text to Support Universal Design for Learning Webinar Series

Thursday, January 19, 2012 – 3:00 – 4:00 pm EST

This OCALI webinar focuses on using digital text to support Universal Design for Learning (UDL).  A very brief overview of UDL will be provided and then we will address the many ways digital text can be modified to support the diverse needs of the students in our classrooms. Several resources for obtaining both copy written and public domain digital text will be provided. We will discuss emerging trends in the use of digital text such as eBook readers and open source textbooks. The presentation will conclude with a review of tools and websites that incorporate many aspects of UDL.

During the 2011-2012 school year, the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI), in collaboration with Michigan’s Integrated Technology Supports (MITS) and Promoting Achievement through Technology and Instruction for All Students (PATINS) will provide a series of webinars that focus on assistive technology (AT), accessible instructional materials and universal design for learning (UDL).

Space is limited.   Reserve your Webinar seat now.   [ Learn more and register ]    or at: http://www.ocali.org/project/at_webinars

Young Children/Early Childhood:  Keep an eye and an ear open for some exciting opportunities from the PATINS Project with regard to the Education of Young Children coming this February through Spring 2012!  Watch here on this blog and also the PATINS Website: www.patinsproject.com for announcements!  Also, if you are specifically involved in the education of young children and are looking for particular trainings or resources, please let us know!  Contact your PATINS Regional Coordinator or leave a comment here on the blog: Contact Us.   Also, check into the Indiana Association for the Education of Young Children Conference,  April 26-28, 2012: www.iaeyc.org/IndianaEarlyChildhoodConference/GeneralConferenceInformation/tabid/809/language/en-US/Default.aspx

Accessible Instruction: EVERY Educator’s Responsibility

Once you have completed the pledge which is only 4 questions, then your name goes into a drawing for an IPAD 2 to be drawn January 13th.  Join the PATINS Project as we take the Accessible Instruction Pledge.

I pledge to do my part to bring accessible instruction to all students.

Click here to take the Accessible Instruction Pledge.

By completing this form, I pledge that at every opportunity I will…

• Understand the individual needs and abilities of learners to ensure that my instruction is accessible to all students
• Advocate for accessible instructional materials
• Choose to purchase materials that have accessible versions available
• Create documents and handouts that can be read and completed using assistive technology
• Support others in their efforts to learn more about supplying accessible instructional materials
• Maintain an accessible website

Picture Calendar Apps:

• PicCalendar (1.99): http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/piccalendar/id371961530?mt=8
• PicCal: (Free):  http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/piccal-lite-picture-diary/id460720322?mt=8
• Photo 365 (.99): http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/photo-365-remember-your-year/id454629399?mt=8
• Pocket Picture Planner (free): http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pocket-picture-planner-hd/id377993736?mt=8

Talking Scientific Calculator App:

• http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/talking-scientific-calculator/id411433609?mt=8 

PATINS Regions: Remember to check out all the PATINS Regional website pages for training, tips and tricks, updates, forms, and more!

• SE PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=33&Itemid=34 
• SW PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=34&Itemid=38
• CE PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=32&Itemid=36
• NE PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=30&Itemid=35
• NW PATINS Region:  www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=31&Itemid=39

QR Codes:  I’m not sure if I blogged this already, but I know I meant to!  Here’s a few uses for QR Codes for people with disabilities:

• http://www.disabled-world.com/assistivedevices/apps/qr-code.php
• http://coolcatteacher.visibli.com/share/jOGKDA

Switch Control For iDevies:

• http://atmac.org/switch-control-ipod-ipad-iphone

Remember to SAVE THE DATE for the PATINS 2012 Tech Expo in Indianapolis!  April 19, 2012!   Download a Flyer HERE   Preview assistive and adaptive technologies and software.

• April 19, 2012
• 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (EST)
• Indianapolis Marriott East
• 7202 E. 21st StreetIndianapolis, IN  46219
• FREE PARKING!
• FREE REGISTRATION & LUNCH COMPLIMENTS OF: PATINS PROJECT 

Accessible Instruction: EVERY Educator’s Responsibility

What did your students do today? Read a textbook or a chapter? Take a pop quiz?  Imagine you are given a reading assignment or told to take out a blank sheet of paper for a quiz… but are unable to read the page of a textbook or physically handle a pencil.  Every educator impacts students, but are they able to effectively reach ALL their students? Anyone working with students with disabilities who fails to provide accessible instruction and materials is inadvertently building barriers to learning.  Please watch the video and then take the pledge!  Once you have completed the pledge which is only 4 questions, then your name goes into a drawing for an IPAD 2 to be drawn the first week in January 13th.  Join the PATINS Project as we take the Accessible Instruction Pledge.

I pledge to do my part to bring accessible instruction to all students.

Click here to take the Accessible Instruction Pledge.

By completing this form, I pledge that at every opportunity I will…

• Understand the individual needs and abilities of learners to ensure that my instruction is accessible to all students
• Advocate for accessible instructional materials
• Choose to purchase materials that have accessible versions available
• Create documents and handouts that can be read and completed using assistive technology
• Support others in their efforts to learn more about supplying accessible instructional materials
• Maintain an accessible website

Myths About Students Using Their Own Devices:  If you’ve ever heard me speak, you’ve likely heard me say many of these same things.  I particularly like #5 on this list with regard to students and teachers being able to access content at school:  http://thejournal.com/Articles/2011/11/09/7-BYOD-Myths.aspx?Page=2

Affordable CCTV (Thanks Vicki):   You can watch a video of how to use a webcam with the upcoming ZoomText version 10 to turn your computer into an affordable CCTV.
http://bit.ly/v8Yt7g

A Few Note Taking Apps:

• SoundNote (can be used similarly to a LiveScribe Pen): http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/soundnote/id364789577?mt=8
• NoteMaster: (free lite version or 3.99)  http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/notemaster-for-ipad/id409275846?mt=8
• Notability:  (.99)  http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/notability-handwriting-note/id360593530?mt=8
• PaperDesk: (free lite version or 3.99)   http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/paperdesk/id367552067?mt=8
• Omicron Notes: (4.99)  http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/omicronnotes-probably-best/id392039438?mt=8
• Writings: (4.99)  http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/writings/id386276831?mt=8

Don’t Forget to Use Keyboard Shortcuts:  ….use them whenever you can to eventually work faster and free your hand up from using that mouse all the time.  I borrowed this image from a friend on Facebook and thought it was a great little visual to help you remember 3 of the most basic Keyboard Shortcuts.  Of course, on the Mac, just change the CTRL to CMD and they work just the same!

New Equipment For Loan From the PATINS Libraries!  Remember, it’s always free and easy to borrow from us!   Just go here:
http://www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=29&Itemid=24

• A Few more iPads!
• Sensor Switch Evaluation Kit
• Aumed Aumex LCD Color Video Magnifier
• Mount n Mover Complete Evaluation Kit
• Dynavox Maestro
• Pebble Portable CCTV
• Motorola Xoom
• Samsung Galaxy TAB
• TextSpeak TS Wireless AAC
• Optelec Clear Reader

***CEC ACTION ALERT: ATTENTION DEC MEMBERS***

***TELL CONGRESS TO RESTORE FUNDING FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION RESEARCH***

This month Congress is making important decisions about funding for fiscal year 2012. CEC is currently advocating to meet all of our priorities, but one area we are especially concerned with is funding for special education research.  In FY 2011, Congress and the Administration cut funding for special education research by a staggering amount – $20 million dollars – or 28%. This cut has impacted projects in every state and greatly hamstrung our nation’s ability to have the robust research agenda it needs on behalf of children and youth with disabilities. We need your help right now to make a difference. Can you spare a few minutes?

Take action today! CEC’s Legislative Action Center provides you with a draft letter that you can sent to your members of Congress – it only takes a few clicks of the mouse!  Have you received a grant? If so, personalize your letter to tell your members of Congress what these federal dollars have meant to you and your community. Together we can make a difference!

Visit CEC’s Legislative Action Center today and make your voice heard. Join CEC and tell your legislators to restore funding for the National Center for Special Education Research’s budget to its FY 2010 level of $71 million dollars.

 Thank you for your help!

Learning Ally Indiana Resources:

1. ghReadHear Software Online Training (FREE) Today:  Still Time to Register (by 1pm EST): Register Here
2. To open Learning Ally (formerly RFB&D) Books, you could use the gh ReadHear software (available free through the ICAM).  There’s also an At-Home Membership option.  Also, see the flyer below.  Reference Learning Ally’s Indiana Support Site here:  http://www.learningally.org/indiana/
3. You could also use the Learning Ally App for iPhone, iTouch, iPad, but it’s not free, it’s about $20, but if the student already has any of these devices, it could be the fastest way of getting him/her access to Learning Ally books.  You could also request an iTouch or iPad from PATINS with this app installed on it.  Learn more:  http://www.learningally.org/apple/
4. You could also request a Victor Reader Stream DAISY playback device from PATINS.  Info on that device and use of it can be found here:  http://www.learningally.org/Training-Support/Players-Victor-Reader-Stream/314/
5. Request to borrow items from PATINS Here:   www.patinsproject.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=29&Itemid=24
6. Flyer: Learning Ally Indiana Individual Membership Flyer

 Apps Advice:

“Can you send me a listing  of the best apps?”   That’s such a hard question to respond to!  It’s like going up to someone and asking them, “what is the best software for a computer?“  …well, the obvious return question is, “for what?”  The best software totally depends on what you’re trying to accomplish with it!  For example, the best software for digital photography isn’t going to do much good for word processing.  So, my advice is to stop thinking about apps.  Start thinking about objectives.  What is it that you want to accomplish in your instructional setting?   Come up with your top 2 or 3 and then we’ll start looking at which of the hundreds of thousands of apps available might be best suited to help.   That said, you might find my wiki page on the topic of eReaders useful in the meantime: http://dgmpresentations.pbworks.com/w/page/36107100/eReader%20Resources.   I try to keep it updated with apps I have particularly liked, but of course it’s never truly up-to-date and nowhere near comprehensive.

Additionally, if you’ve been in any of my trainings in the past 4 or 5 years you’ve probably heard me talk about teaching in different ways, NOT just teaching the old way with a new tool.  Keep this in mind as you consider apps.  Here’s a link to an interesting article on Transforming Your Past Lessons for 21st Century Learners:

• http://www.techlearning.com/Default.aspx?tabid=67&EntryId=3317

A New UDL Resource:    A message to all members of UDL Connect

“We are pleased to announce some exciting news! On November 17, 2011, the National Center on UDL will introduce a new professional learning resource, the UDL Series. We invite you to join us and ask you to share this announcement with others.

The UDL Series is a free online collection of rich media presentations (typically 15-20 minutes in length) that help educators to build UDL understanding, implementation skills, and leadership ability. The first session, entitled “Learner Variability and UDL,” features Drs. David Rose and Todd Rose discussing how UDL addresses systematic learner variability. It also includes real examples of how two educators apply the principles of UDL to meet varied learner needs.

The UDL Series will be inaugurated onThursday, November 17, 2011. However, we recognize that educators are busy. Once launched, it will be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at www.udlseries.udlcenter.org.

Visit UDL Connect at: http://community.udlcenter.org/?xg_source=msg_mes_network

Interacting With Guide Dogs:  Have you ever come across someone using a Guide Dog in public and wondered what was appropriate and what might be questionable?  Here’s a few tips from Guiding Eyes For The Blind  and Guide Dogs For The Blind:

• Guide Dogs are working.  Please don’t pet them or distract them while they are in-harness
• It is OK to ask someone if you may pet their Guide Dog.
• Do not feed them.  Their diet is usually very strictly monitored.
• If you want to offer help, ASK FIRST, and if accepted, offer your left elbow.  Do not grab or try to direct the Guide Dog.
• Talk to the person when giving instructions or directions, not the Guide Dog.
• Don’t be afraid to identify yourself as an inexperienced sighted guided and ask for tips on improving.
• Don’t honk your horn or call out of your car window when you think it’s safe to cross. This is a distraction for the dog whose job is already hard enough with quieter cars.
• Remember that according to federal and state laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act and Canada’s Blind Persons’ Rights Act, guide dogs are allowed everywhere the public is allowed including restaurants and grocery stores.

Two upcoming webinars from Ohio available to IN Educators: 

1. 1.     Universal Design for Learning: Reach and Teach All Students Webinar Series – Part 3

Thursday, December 1, 2011 – 3:00 – 4:00 pm EST

This presentation will provide participants with information about Universal Design for Learning (UDL) that can help provide access to the general curriculum for all students including those with diverse learning needs and provides information on assistive technology. In this webinar session participants will learn about methods and materials used to implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Additionally, participants will learn about assistive technologies (AT) and how the use of UDL strategies may help to minimize the use of AT among some students with disabilities.

During the 2011-2012 school year, the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI), in collaboration with Michigan’s Integrated Technology Supports (MITS) and Promoting Achievement through Technology and Instruction for All Students (PATINS) will provide a series of webinars that focus on assistive technology (AT), accessible instructional materials and universal design for learning (UDL).

Space is limited.

Reserve your Webinar seat now.

[ Learn more and register ]

or at:http://www.ocali.org/project reach_and_teach_all_students_webinar_series

2.     Best AT Tools 2011 Webinar Series

Thursday, December 8, 2011 – 3:00 – 4:00 pm EST

As you end this year before going on break, spend a short hour with OCALI to learn the latest Assistive Technology Tools to pump-up teaching and learning in your classroom. Nick and Jim have been at it again, collecting the best websites that offer alternative ways of learning for students with disabilities.

Here’s a sample of what you’ll learn:

- Follow a recipe to bake a cake in a virtual oven

- Learn how to make a digital pop-up book

- Chop a YouTube video to get just what you need for a lesson

- Find “Free Pictures of Everything on Earth”

- Click and drag words for creative writing

During the 2011-2012 school year, the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI), in collaboration with Michigan’s Integrated Technology Supports (MITS) and Promoting Achievement through Technology and Instruction for All Students (PATINS) will provide a series of webinars that focus on assistive technology (AT), accessible instructional materials and universal design for learning (UDL).

Space is limited.

Reserve your Webinar seat now.

[ Learn more and register ]

or at: http://www.ocali.org/view.php?nav_id=103

ATIA Chicago: This year I presented 3 sessions at ATIA Chicago and would be happy to replicate these trainings for your district here in Indiana at your request.  Just ask!  Here are some Key Points from the Assistive Technology Industry Association Chicago Conference.  

1. TWITTER FEED: If you’re interested in looking back at the Tweets from this conference, here is the Twitter Hashtag: #ATIA11
   
2. Text To Speech and/or Text To Audio represents a nice step in the direction of providing instructional materials to all students in a format they can best access.  We seem to be doing a pretty descent job with that part in many areas of the state.  NOW, we have to be able to take our “techie” hats off and put our “teacher” hats back on.  We have to still teach reading skills.  Giving an iPad to a student with a NIMAS book converted to an ePub and using VoiceOver is great, but it’s not enough.  We still have to teach reading comprehension skills to that student, using that medium.

• There are FAR more kids reading online than offline now.  Do you feel that reading online is the same as reading offline or does it involve some different/additional skills?  If so, are you teaching those skills specific to the type of reading that the majority of kids are doing (online reading)?
• Further, studies have shown that some of the best offline readers are the worst readers online and vice verse.  This, I think, offers some very serious considerations for educators who think they are teaching reading in schools.  Check this out: www.sesameworkshop.org/newsandevents/pressreleases/pockets_of_potential.   Also, related article “7 Myths about BYOD,” http://thejournal.com/articles/2011/11/09/7-byod-myths.aspx
• 70% of people have cell phones.  70%!   That’s huge.  How is that number impacting what you’re doing in school?

CASE 2011: This year I presented 1 sessions at CASE and would be happy to replicate this training for your district here in Indiana at your request.  Just ask!  Some Key Points from the Council of Administrators of Special Education National Conference

1.  TWITTER FEED: If you’re interested in looking back at the Tweets from this conference, here is theTwitter Hashtag: #CASE11
2. Planning, Planning, Planning.   The need to be systematic in thinking in a way that INCLUDES training and professional development of staff is KEY to success.  This, to me, seemed to be a definite theme here at the CASE Conference and was strongly reinforced this morning when I learned of a school district deciding to take back all of the 1:1 devices they’d given to students because of some difficulties.  Planning to implement something like 150 iPads to students MUST include a plan for training of the professionals.  However, be cautious of planning TOO MUCH for TOO LONG.  There must be a balance and on one side we have the district recalling 2000 devices because of a possible lack of planning and on the other side we have the district who’s had 20 iPads and laptops sitting in boxes for 1.5 years because their plan isn’t ready yet.  I don’t feel it’s that difficult to come up with a good middle-ground.  Some other key points from the conference that are worth considering.

• #1 Concern of co-teachers regarding implementation of alternate formats?  TIME
• There’s really only ONE purpose for what we do in schools.  It is ALWAYS to improve achievement.
• If there are any policies in a district that are not directly aligned with improved student achievement, reconsider those policies immediately.
• IEP Decisions regarding AT, AIM or anything else should not depend on a vote.  They should require CONSENSUS.
• 7000 Students in the US drop out of school every day.  This is believed to often stem from reading difficulties.
• When a student is working hard on phonetic decoding, most working memory is used and not available for comprehension.
• Even for those of us who have a deep belief that All Students CAN learn, the time has come for us to realize that the word , “CAN” puts the emphasis on the system.  If we change “CAN” to “WILL,” more of the onus on the individual, the teacher, the facilitator, etc.  In your head, change your “CAN” to “WILL LEARN,” on a daily basis.
• And Finally, a quote and an accompanying short video:
  • John Sculley 1987,  “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.“  (Apple)

Stuck?  Still Waiting For Someone Else To Fix Things For You?

Lately, I’ve gotten many requests from new educators and also experienced educators who just aren’t familiar with PATINS, which is great!  So, I thought I’d share this short 5-min video again.  Please feel free to share it with others and also check out all of the PATINS videos on AIM at our YouTube Channel here:  www.youtube.com/user/PATINSProject

PATINS Informational 5-Minute Video:

More Next Week!