Training & Consultancy... Courses... Software to support learners with difficulties associated with autism

Computers are consistent, predictable and controllable.

There is no doubt that most children and adults on the autistic spectrum like computers and are motivated by them. This day will explore the practical application of some software that is available to support these learners in educational and other settings. Each learner has his or her own individual learning styles and needs, and ICT support covers a wealth of resources which would be impossible to cover in a one day course. Today we look at mainly single focus activities that can enable learning, increase self-confidence and result in success.

The day is run by publisher Laura Cryer, author and publisher of several of the titles, who has joined the Inclusive Technology team, as well as another team member.

Programme

Colleagues attending this course will:

  • Have an understanding of some of the difficulties experienced by learners of all ages with autism.
  • Understand how effective and targeted use of software can be useful in supporting learners with autism in the inclusive classroom and in other settings where learning takes place.
  • Explore a range of software, hardware and workbooks offering practical support for learners – both with targeted literacy skills and with emotional literacy issues.
  • Be provided with a range of ideas and resources that may help to inspire and encourage further research into ICT.

This course is ideal for SENCOs, teachers and support workers who teach and/or support pupils with additional needs related to autism in mainstream and special schools as well as in other settings. We will be looking at how the software can support learners of all ages although we will be concentrating on the needs of slightly older learners (8+).

Each delegate will receive a 1Gb memory stick preloaded with extra material relevant to the course.

Each delegate will have the option to pay an additional £50 plus VAT and receive a single-user copy of an appropriate software title.

Software looked at during the day will include: Spell Track, Word Track, Idiom Track, Colorcards Interactive, Choose and Tell: Legends, ReadIt! The Time of My Life, Out & About 3, Out & About 4, Coping with Chaos and Strumbie Island.

10:00 Welcome and Introductions

  • Sharing of expectations of the course.

10:10 Session 1

  • What is autism and how can ICT can help?
  • Overview of some of the resources and software titles that will be specifically explored today.
  • Some simple matching, sequencing and choice making ideas to encourage learning.

11:00 Session 2

  • A practical session including an introduction to communication aids and Boardmaker software.

12:30 Lunch

A buffet lunch is provided.

Delegates will have the opportunity to look at other hardware and Inclusive Technology software.

13:30 Session 3

  • A look at software providing specific literacy support with skill building activities to encourage independent learning.

14:45 Break

15:00 Session 4

  • A detailed look (and play!) at software designed to support learning about emotions, behaviour and relationships in safe and structured ways.

15:45 Plenary and certificates

16:00 Close

We can also run product based or general courses at your organisation, designed to meet your needs.
The team also offers consultancy.