Class Four

Presentations
Having the opportunity to view the various ways in which Proloquo2go can be used and adapted to meet the needs of students was amazing. Each groups presentation allowed me to learn and think a little deeper about the ways in which Proloquo2go can be manipulated. From these presentations I found ways in which I can improve my own practices within this program such as:
- I wouldn't change the templates themselves. Being a type A personality and being the creator I did not like that there were spaces on the screen, however each template should stay the same to keep consistency between boards so that the user (the most important person) will know exactly where to go for objects on the board. The program needs to be adapted to the student's preferences not the teacher's/creator's.
- I would look deeper within the program to see which folders are already created. I found we created folders that were already created that we could have used. At times we found the boards to be overwhelming because there was too much. I think we need to learn to simplify more when using this program to keep engagement among communicators.
- I also learned that typing can be a part of this program. I myself am not a fan of this tool as I think it takes away from the aided language portion of the program. I think that relating pictures to sound is an incredible tool, but the moment typing is presented the functionality of the app is limited/delayed (in my opinion). Higher functioning students may find this effective, however lower functioning students will struggle with this task.

Modeling

In today's class modeling was an idea that came up and I think is an extremely important concept in all areas of education, but especially when talking about AT. In the video One Kids PLace Aided Language when discussing how picture symbols can be used to communicate, it was discussed how important it was for the teacher to model how to use the symbols. We want the children to understand the process and see it in action, therefore even though it may take the teacher longer to communicate with the student they are setting the standard so that the tool can be effective. When modeling technology such as those used in AT I think it is important for the teacher to show students how to do the skill, highlights the importance of routine, or procedure and tells them what to notice/look for. Interactive modeling also shows students these things but it goes beyond those basic steps. Students also  learn exactly why the skill, routine, or procedure is important to their learning, they see other classmates model the procedure after the teacher, they practice routinely (10x/hr when discussing aided language) and they receive immediate feedback while in practice. Remembering this when presenting students with AT is important to ensure its success and students reach their learning/social goals.

Cute Video: