Program

Transcending Barriers: Levelling the Playing Field for All

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Thursday, November 24, 2011

Time Session or Activity
8:00-9:00 am Registration Commences;  Exhibitors Open to Delegates and Public
8:00 am-8:45 am Bonus Coffee Cup Session:  Capture the Conference with EverNote!Speaker:  Lisa BooneDescription: EverNote – save your ideas, things you see, and things you like, make notes, grab images, clip pieces of a website, and organize them all within one notebook. Sync your mobile EverNote with your PC or Mac to ensure this is a truly flexible device.  During this session, explore how you can use this powerful note taking tool during the LDA Conference to take notes for review or use to collaborate with your peers.
8:45-9:00 am Conference Opens – Official Welcome
9:00 am -10:30 am Plenary Panel Session: The State of Special Education Reform: Challenges and Opportunities Panellists:

  • Dr. Lorraine Stewart, Alberta Education 
  • Deborah Lewis, Superintendent, Calgary Board of Education
  • Ruth Snyder,  Trustee, Northern Lights School Division

Moderator:

  • Kathryn Burke, Executive Director, Learning Disabilities Association of Alberta

Description: The three panellists will comment on the challenges and opportunities of reform of the education system to address the needs of exceptional learners. Email some critical questions you would like panellists to answer to execdir@LDAlberta.ca. There will be an opportunity for Q & A from the floor.
10:30-10:45 am Beverage Break
10:45 am -12:00 pm Morning Concurrent Sessions (Select one session to attend)
10:45 am -12:00 pm Software for Reluctant Readers and Writers – Read & Write Gold 10Speaker: Jay CottellStream: Technology Description: Explore the many tools of this leading text to speech software and all the extra features of the newest version too. Pick up some strategies for classroom use, resources you can use right away and learn how easy it can be to start with your kids the very next day! (Note: Jay Cottell is not an agent or salesperson for Read & Write Gold)
10:45 am -12:00 pm Access to Learning:  Determining Appropriate Academic Accommodations for Learners with DisabilitySpeaker: Tracy Hetman Stream: Putting Policy Into Practice Description: Academic accommodation is the current leading approach for levelling the playing field for students with disabilities.  Postsecondary Service Providers to Students with Disabilities (PSPSD), a consortium of service providers working in postsecondary institutions serving students with disabilities in Alberta, has prepared a guide to provision of academic accommodation in post-secondary institutions. The presenter will introduce the guide and discuss how and why we accommodate and factors that impact accommodation.
10:45 am -12:00 pm Getting the Message from the Source: What Teachers Say they Need to Teach Students with Learning DisabilitiesSpeaker: Karlene Chorney Stream: Building CapacityDescription: What is it that high school teachers say they need to effectively teach students with learning disabilities? Using various qualitative methods of data collection, the presenter asked teachers in a high school well regarded for celebrating diversity and achievement of high completion rates.
12:00 pm -1:30 pm Presidents Luncheon & Awards Ceremony Included with Registration
1:30-2:45 Early Afternoon Concurrent Sessions (Select one session to attend)
1:30 pm -2:45 pm Reading. Reimagined! Making Books in Alternative Formats Available to Students with Print Disabilities Speaker: Lindsay Tyler Stream: Technology Description: The CNIB Library Partners Program provides access to more than 80,000 titles in alternative formats through Alberta’s public libraries.  People with print disabilities can register for online access and free postal delivery of accessible reading material using their public library card.  With less than 5% of published material available in formats people with print disabilities can use, the CNIB Library is an important component of accessible library service.
1:30 pm -2:45 pm Universal Design for Learning: What is it and why should I care?Speaker: Kathy Howery Stream: Putting Policy Into Practice Description: Universal Design for Learning is a much-touted approach to providing appropriate and accessible education to all students, including those with disabilities, in the context of the demands of the 21st Century educational environment. UDL proposes learning environments be designed to provide the right level of support and challenge for diverse learners by providing multiple means of representation of curricular content, multiple means of expression to demonstrate learning and multiple means for students to engage in the curriculum (Rose & Meyer, 2000). This session will introduce participants to the principles of UDL in the context of current research and practice.  Implications for curricular design and instructional practices will be discussed.
1:30 pm -2:45 pm Psycho-babble 101: Understanding Test Scores and Psycho-Ed Assessments Speaker: Michele PentyliukStream: Building CapacityDescription: Psycho-educational assessments are administered to children and adults who are struggling with learning or behaviour when traditional approaches have not proven effective and more information needs to be gathered to establish learning or social/emotional needs.  All too often, assessments lie dormant in cumulative files because they don’t contain relevant information or the information is not understood by the individuals who are working with the individual.  The speaker will discuss common assessment tools, scores obtained through assessments, and how information gathered can be utilized to create effective intervention programs for individuals with diverse learning needs.
2:45-3:00 Beverage Break
3:00-4:15 Late Afternoon Concurrent Session (Select one session to attend)
3:00 pm -4:15 pm Free and Inexpensive Technology for the ClassroomSpeaker: Linda TomlinsonStream: Technology Description: In this session, the speaker, a veteran learning strategist and learning disabilities specialist, will identify affordable technology for use in the classroom and effective strategies to make this technology work. This session does not advocate or market for any one brand or vendor.
3:00 pm -4:15 pm Best Practices for Diverse Learners: One Size Does Not Fit All Speaker: Sandra GluthStream: Putting Policy Into PracticeDescription: Universal Design for Learning is a comprehensive framework for combining best practices for teaching and learning with flexible and accessible technologies. By “frontloading” technologies into the classroom we can create a more accessible and flexible learning environment for all students. Through student examples, this session will focus on building an understanding of UDL and provide numerous practical applications of UDL in the classroom.
3:00 pm -4:15 pm Translating AT Assessments for Teachers: When should a student get an AT Assessment, What Does it Mean, and How Can it be Implemented? Speaker: Paul Reid Stream: Building CapacityDescription: What is an assistive or adaptive technology assessment and why is it important? How can AT help students with learning disabilities? What do teachers really need to know? These are a sample of some of the many questions posed by teachers and parents.  In this session, the speaker will provide a primer on AT, and provide important advice on the value and structure of assessments, and how the outcome of such reviews can be used in the classroom, at home and in the workplace.
4:15-5:30 pm Cash Bar in Exhibitor Area
5:30 pm-6:30 pm Supper Buffet in Plenary Session Room(Purchase Buffet Tickets Separately with Registration)
6:45 pm -7:00 pm Doors Open for Keynote Address Keynote Included with RegistrationSingle Tickets available for purchase for Keynote Address
7:00 pm -9:00 pm Keynote Address: The Gift of Technology and Learning Disabilities Speaker: David Chalk Description: In this keynote address, Dr. David Chalk, challenges some of the pervasive (and negative) views about learning disabilities. He challenges teachers, parents, and professionals to reframe their concept of learning disabilities and embrace a focus on strength and creativity. David speaks about the unique role that technology can play in enabling the person with learning disabilities to excel. A critical philosophy is to foster and celebrate strengths and let technology take care of weaknesses. And while technology can be life altering, so too is the need for kindness and acceptance, because, all children ultimately want to feel wanted and accepted.

Friday, November 25, 2011

Time Session or Activity
7:45 am -9:00 am Bonus Coffee Cup Session: Assistive Technology Solutions in the Classroom: Using a Transdisciplinary Approach. Lessons from the Alberta Health Services and Edmonton Public Schools PartnershipSpeakers: John Toporowski, Pam Pederson & Krista ChichakDescription: The Assistive Technology Classroom-Learning Solutions (AT-LS) is a partnership between the School Rehabilitation Services and the Glenrose School Campus (Edmonton Public Schools) at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. This unique program was developed to investigate and implement appropriate assistive technology tools and strategies for students identified with a learning disability. (Grades 3-12). The team will share their assessment tools, information gathering framework, and successful intervention strategies through several case studies.  The team will also highlight their current pilot project investigating the use of voice recognition software (Dragon Naturally Speaking 11) as a writing tool with learning disabled students. 
9:00-10:30 am Morning Concurrent Session (Select one session to attend)
9:00 am -10:30 am Observations of a Dyslexic:  How to Use Technology to Support People with Learning Disabilities to Excel Speaker: David Chalk Stream: Technology Description: In this concurrent session, Dr. David Chalk will expand on comments made in his keynote address. The brain physiology of people with learning disabilities means that they have huge potential to be creative and entrepreneurial, a fact that is reflected in their overrepresentation, as a group, in CEO positions. The critical action is to unlock this potential, and encourage people with learning disabilities to thrive. Technology is essential in enabling these skills to emerge. In this session, Dr. Chalk will speak about how the teacher and parent, or indeed person living with learning disabilities, can rethink their daily activities to capitalize on technology to enable their strengths to emerge and be fostered.
9:00 am -10:30 am The Role of the ATA in Special Education Reform: Thoughtful Inclusion Speaker: Joni Turville Stream: Putting Policy Into Practice Description: Today’s classrooms are increasingly complex and working with diverse learner needs can be a challenge.  In this session, participants will consider the definition of inclusion and some conditions necessary for effective inclusion.  Strategies for building inclusive schools and classrooms will also be discussed.
9:00 am -10:30 am Screening and Early Intervention for Risk for Reading Problems in the Early Elementary Grades: The Reading Readiness Screening Tool Speakers: Judy Craig & Joanne Heckbert Stream: Building CapacityDescription: Building on successful research results achieved by the North Vancouver school district, a locally developed Reading Readiness Screening Tool will be described that can be given by any kindergarten or grade one teacher to identify those students who do not have the prerequisite reading readiness skills necessary to begin the road to literacy.  Recommendations for program interventions will also be given. 
10:30-10:45 am Beverage Break
10:45 -12:00 pm Late Morning Concurrent Sessions
10:45 am -12:00 pm Power Up 2 Learn: iPod Technology in the Classroom and Creating an Environment for all LearnersSpeakers: Shawn Haggarty & Heather Tumbach Stream: Technology Description: Richard Fowler Junior High School is in its second year of its novel Power Up 2 Learn initiative.  Power Up 2 Learn is a technology initiative with a special focus on iPod’s incorporating the latest in instructional strategies.  Technology is infused into teaching and learning. PU2L is a collaborative effort to enhance student engagement by using innovative approaches and technologies. There is a school wide commitment to use technology to enhance curriculum and extend the learning experience of all students.  PU2L incorporates the principles of Universal Design for Learning, the staff designs and delivers curricula, materials, and environments in a practice that makes them accessible and usable to all students.
10:45 am -12:00 pm Get Teched: Get in Touch with your FutureSpeakers: Mary Ellen Lickfold & Wendy ThurstonStream: Putting Policy Into PracticeDescription: The session will highlight assistive technology, the assessment process, and the training for recommended technology.  Emphasis is on the importance of AT assessment and the trialing of various technology.  Low tech, high tech or no tech are all reviewed, with the intent of encouraging users to enhance their learning, working and home life experiences using those technologies that best fit their own unique situations.  Expect a brief peek into what the future holds for assistive technologies!
10:45 am -12:00 pm ADHD in Our Schools: How can Teachers and Doctors Pay Attention? Speakers: Dr. Paul Soper & Patricia Schwandt Stream: Building CapacityDescription: Dr. Paul Soper, a psychiatrist, specializing in the treatment of ADHD and Patricia Schwandt, a teacher working in special education, discuss how to improve the learning outcomes of children with ADHD through collaboration.The session will focus on:

  • Identification of children (K to 12) with ADHD (hyperactive/impulsive, inattentive and combined subtypes) within the classroom. What can a teacher do next?
  • Evidence based school and classroom strategies and mental health supports that improve student function.
  • Teacher/child/parents/doctor working together – creating a team that collaborates to solve problems.
12:00-1:00 pm Lunch on OwnBag lunches available for sale with registration
12:15 pm -1:00 pm Bonus Lunch Time Learning Session: The Role of School Psychologists in Special Education Reform Speakers: Coranne Johnson & Michele Pentyliuk, Representative of the Psychologists Association Alberta School Psychologist CommitteeDescription: The values and objectives of school psychologists in Alberta closely align with the stated purpose and goals of Setting the Direction and support the efforts of Alberta Education to develop an equitable, inclusive system for all students. Because of their training and expertise, school psychologists must be instrumental in the development and implementation of such a system. School psychologists see this transition and change as an opportunity to more effectively use their skills both in schools and in the broader, school-family-community network. The move away from an emphasis on assessment allows greater opportunities to work more collaboratively and closely with children, school personnel and families to support the learning and social/emotional development of students.  Learn more about anticipated changes to the role of school psychologists within the Alberta’s education system.
Test Driving Technology Sessions In these unique sessions, representatives of companies will highlight the features and benefits of a range of Assistive Technologies. Learn directly from the experts.
1:00-2:10 Early Afternoon Test Driving Technology Sessions (Select one of three)
1:00 pm -2:10 pm Kurzweil v12 and High Speed Scanning: Exciting New features, Network Licensing and High Speed Scanning efficiency.Agency/Vendor: Barouch Chai, Microcomputer Science Centre Inc.Description: Kurzweil 3000 V12is a leading software suited to the needs of students with learning challenges, general literacy and ELL individuals. Its scan and read technology converts printed materials into a digital format that can be read, and edited. Our goal is that the participant will be enthused by K3000’s comprehensive suite of reading, writing and test taking tools as well as learning how Web and Network licensing benefits schools.KBook, a High Speed Scanning system, will be demonstrated showing the streamlined process of scanning a book, converting into Kurzweil, checking its quality, burning to CDs, creating labels and tracking systems.
1:00 pm -2:10 pm Unlocking the Potential of the Brain with Mind Mapping using MindView 4 Agency/Vendor: Lisa Boone, Aroga Technologies Description: Mind mapping is a powerful tool that can be applied to every aspect of learning.  During this session we will explore essential components of mind mapping through the powerful mind mapping software MindView 4. Participants will walk away with a greater understanding how mind mapping can clarify thinking and enhance learning with a simple, and easy to use mind mapping software program.
1:00 pm -2:10 pm Technology Solutions for Struggling Learners Agency/Vendor: Heather Baptie & Terry Dobson,  Links 2 LearningDescription: Links 2 Learning Online is a unique and innovative alternative to traditional tutoring that is more accessible, effective and affordable. In this highly practical workshop, the presenters will focus on how technology can be used to support struggling learners.  Participants will learn:

  • how technology can be successfully used for both remediation and compensation
  • about a variety of digital resources (including apps for mobile devices) that can be used at school and at home to raise achievement

Many of the featured assistive technology applications are free or low cost.

2:20-3:30 pm Early Afternoon Test Driving Technology Sessions (Select one of three)
2:20 pm -3:30 pm ClaroRead “Simple and Fun – for all abilities” & Ginger! Contextual Writing Tool for everyone! Agency/Vendor: Barouch Chai,Microcomputer Science Centre Inc.Description: ClaroRead is a highly effective multi-sensory software solution for supporting individuals with reading and writing. Because ClaroRead is designed with maximum simplicity, adaptability and flexibility, users of any age and level of ability will have a world of information unlocked through ClaroRead.Ginger: Expand your opportunities. Write without embarrassing mistakes. Ginger’s spell checker corrects the most severe and unusual spelling errors, as well as typos and misused words. The grammar checker identifies and corrects a variety of grammatical errors based on the context of each sentence! Participants will experience the ground-breaking solutions of Ginger for automatic spelling and grammar checks.
2:20 pm -3:30 pm Reading for Meaning – Fluently Agency/Vendor: Read Naturally Description: Read Live, new from Read Naturally is a comprehensive set of online, research-based programs that assess reading and engage students with a motivating curriculumthat supports fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and phonics. In this session participants will learn:

  • The importance of attaining fluency and how fluency directly correlates with comprehension
  • To combine the research-based strategies of teacher modeling, repeated reading, and self-monitoring of progress to significantly improve fluency in developing readers
  • To differentiate instruction to meet the needs of a wide range of students

 
2:20 pm -3:30 pm Bridging the Gaps in Math Education Using Technology for the Learning DisabledAgency/Vendor: Darryl Marchand,Texas InstrumentsDescription: Texas Instruments have several technologies that allow teachers and students to view math in a variety of ways.  Using the TI-Nspire CX graphing handheld and accompanying software teachers can modify any math/science curriculum to meet the individual needs of the students.  Using graphing handhelds allows the students to be actively engaged and allows for students to explore math with multiple representations.  TI has a vast library of free resources and published materials available for even the most novice math educator to assist them in their planning and instruction. Teachers will see how easy it is to integrate the technology into everyday use.
Conference Adjourns to Edmonton in 2012

Program Colour Key:

Plenary, keynote and non-current sessions scheduled at a time when all delegates may potentially attend
Technology Stream – Concurrent Sessions
Putting Policy Into Practice Stream – Concurrent Sessions
Building Capacity Stream – Concurrent Sessions
Test Driving Technology Vendor Sponsored Concurrent Sessions