<h1><b>Postponed until April 2023. Specific dates to be confirmed. Please check back for further details.</b></h1>
<p>This enhanced level learning module is accredited through the University of Dundee – 30 credits (SCQF). It can be combined with an additional 30 credits from one of two further modules (The Access Unit or the AAC Unit) to gain the PGCert Specialist Assistive Technology. It is also possible to progress on to the <a href="https://www.dundee.ac.uk/postgraduate/educational-assistive-technology">MSc in Educational Assistive Technology</a>.</p>
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<h2 class="sectionname topics-extended-section-header-title-text">Learning Outcomes</h2>
</div>
<div class="topics-extended-section-summary ">
<p>The <strong>Assistive Technology Unit</strong> will support you to:</p>
<ul>
<li>demonstrate an understanding of AT assessment models and how they relate to practise in the workplace</li>
<li>critically analyse key principles of assessment for Assistive Technology</li>
<li>identify parameters in the decision-making process when finding AT solutions for people</li>
<li>be aware of solutions and ways to access further information to maintain professional development and develop critical thinking and evaluation skills</li>
<li>analyse the cyclical process of Assistive Technology and measure the impact it has</li>
<li>critically evaluate issues around the use of Assistive Technology to support communication and learning</li>
<li>utilise theory for understanding good practise in the field of Assistive Technology to support communication and learning</li>
</ul>
<p>It will also enable you to develop and apply problem-solving, communication, team-working, time management, self assessment and independent study skills.</p>
</div>
<div class="topics-extended-section-header-title">
<h2 class="sectionname topics-extended-section-header-title-text">The Accreditation Process</h2>
</div>
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<p dir="ltr">The <strong>Assistive Technology Unit</strong> is 100% course work. There are no written exams.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Learning Outcomes outlined above will be assessed by: &#8211;</p>
<p dir="ltr">60% &#8211; essay based on the critical analysis of an Assistive Technology assessment &amp; recommendations</p>
<p id="yui_3_17_2_1_1661869632571_53" dir="ltr">40% &#8211; digital presentation of training/support materials to enable the implementation of identified Assistive Technology recommendations for an individual</p>
<p dir="ltr">Ongoing feedback will be available through online tutorial sessions as well as reporting back on tasks completed during online lectures. This support will be provided by Ace Centre clinicians, University of Dundee academic staff and guest speakers as appropriate.</p>
</div>
<h2 dir="ltr">Session Times</h2>
<p>The Assistive Technology Unit provides a combination of teacher supported and self directed learning experiences.</p>
<p>This unit consists of 15 2-hour online sessions led by members of our Ace Centre clinical team. These sessions will be <strong>Thursday afternoons 3:00-5:00pm</strong> on the following dates: &#8211;</p>
<ul>
<li>12th January 2023</li>
<li>19th January 2023</li>
<li>26th January 2023</li>
<li>2nd February 2023</li>
<li>9th February 2023</li>
<li>16th February 2023</li>
<li>23rd February 2023</li>
<li>2nd March 2023</li>
<li>9th March 2023</li>
<li>16th March 2023</li>
<li>23rd March 2023</li>
<li>30th March 2023</li>
<li>6th April 2023</li>
<li>13th April 2023</li>
<li>20th April 2023</li>
</ul>
<p>There will be 2 additional Face-to-Face Workshops (at the Ace Centre, North Office), as follows: &#8211;</p>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Thursday 9th February 2023</li>
<li>Thursday 6th April 2023</li>
</ul>
<p>These will run 9:30-1:30pm. The Workshops are optional, but will provide valuable opportunities for hands-on exploration of equipment &amp; resources.</p>
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<p id="yui_3_17_2_1_1661869958452_487">Additional online learning content will be available through the University&#8217;s online learning platform. Course participants will need to allocate time for their own self-directed learning over and above the online taught sessions.</p>
<p>1:1 tutorials can be booked with the course tutors on Thursday mornings.</p>
<p>Through registration, learners will become an Associate Student of the University of Dundee. This provides access to the University of Dundee online learning platform, library and other student services.</p>
<h2>University of Dundee</h2>
<p>In order to enrol you on the course we will share your details with The University of Dundee, who will in turn contact you regarding the course. <a href="https://www.dundee.ac.uk/corporate-information/data-protection-policy">You can view their privacy policy here.</a></p>
</div>
<p>You must reply to any email we send asking for more details in order for us to enrol you on the course.</p>
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<p dir="ltr"><b>Cost:</b> £1500</p>
</div>


Runs on specific date

This accredited unit aims to support professionals who specialise in Assistive Technology

Online

Exploring ways to support written communication and learning.

Education

Assistive Technology for Complex Communication, Physical & Learning Needs

<h3><strong>Developing Level (Teacher-supported online study</strong></h3>
<h3>Course aim:</h3>
<p>Develop your knowledge and skills to identify appropriate AAC solutions. This course explores the fundamental principles of AAC assessment and is suitable for people working with anyone who may benefit from aided language systems.</p>
<h3>You will learn:</h3>
<ul>
<li>To recognise factors to consider in an AAC assessment</li>
<li>To identify assessment questions to ask</li>
<li>To consider the importance of documenting observations accurately;</li>
<li>To evaluate tools to support AAC assessment.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Suitable for:</h3>
<p>Practitioners responsible for identifying AAC solutions for people with complex communication needs. This course will enable you to work towards the following:</p>
<p><b>IPAACKS competencies</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Assessment
<ul>
<li>Able to carry out an informal AAC assessment with guidance and/or using an existing proforma</li>
<li>Able to contribute observations to the more complex AAC assessment</li>
<li>Able to identify when alternative accessing and mounting options may be required and seek support with this, when necessary</li>
<li>Aware when a more specialised assessment would be beneficial</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Review
<ul>
<li>Able to gather information, and to observe and make judgements in relation to whether or not an AAC system continues to be appropriate and to meet the needs and abilities of the individual</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Course includes:</h3>
<p>1 x three-hour webinar, and four weeks&#8217; enrolment to self-directed learning materials.</p>
<p><b>Time:</b> 9:30am &#8211; 12:30pm UTC (a link will be available in the course when you log in)</p>
<p><b>Cost:</b> £30</p>


Our courses focus on the use of Assistive Technology to enable independence, access to education, learning and leisure activities, and communication.

Exploring Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) that supports face-to-face communication.

Communication

AAC Assessment Tools

<h3><strong><strong>Developing Level (teacher-supported online study)</strong></strong></h3>
<p>This webinar and self-directed online learning course encourages a more detailed look at communication partner skills. Explore skills to practice yourself and ways to support others to develop their skills.</p>
<h3><b>Course aim:</b></h3>
<p>To recognise the skills required to use AAC and how to positively support AAC interactions. This is a self-directed online course encouraging you to reflect on your behaviours as a communication partner and support the development of skills in others.</p>
<h3>You will learn:</h3>
<ul>
<li>To describe the skills required to use an AAC system;</li>
<li>To discriminate between directive and non-directive language;</li>
<li>To identify communication partners skills to develop;</li>
<li>To embed effective communication partner skills in a setting.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Suitable for:</h3>
<p>Practitioners supporting AAC users to develop their communication skills and learn how to use their AAC system effectively. This course will enable you to work towards the following:</p>
<p><b>IPAACKS competencies:</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Implementation:
<ul>
<li>Knowledge of the role of skilled communication partners in enhancing communication for the person using AAC</li>
<li>Able to independently promote effective use of the AAC system to the team around the person using AAC</li>
<li>Able to identify the barriers for an individual and provide practical solutions to overcome them, seeking support if required</li>
<li>Aware of the underpinning knowledge required by the person using AAC</li>
<li>Support the person using AAC to develop the required knowledge and skills</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>AAC Leadership:
<ul>
<li>Act as a positive role model for others in their interaction with people who use AAC</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Facilitating AAC Learning:
<ul>
<li>Able to model positive interaction in relation to their communicating with someone who uses AAC</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Course includes:</h3>
<p>Webinar and self-directed online learning materials including videos and activities.</p>
<h3>Special requirements:</h3>
<p>You will be required to use one of the following web browsers: Chrome, Microsoft Edge, FireFox, Safari or Safari Mobile</p>
<p><b>Time:</b> 12pm &#8211; 1pm UTC (a link will be available in the course when you log in)</p>
<p><strong style="font-weight: bold;">Cost: </strong>£30</p>


Coaching Communication Partners

<p><strong>Introductory Level  (Face-to-face)</strong></p>
<p>This two day introductory workshop is hosted and delivered at Ace Centre in Oldham by our certified PODD trainer, Suzanne Martin.</p>
<p>The course aims to discuss the teaching and learning strategies for implementing PODD communication systems and is taught as a <b>face -to-face</b> course. Because of the nature of the content, there will be no remote attendance.</p>
<p><b>Learning Outcomes: </b></p>
<ul>
<li>The challenges faced when creating communication systems in relation to vocabulary organisation, layout, design and range of access strategies and when customising systems to meet individual requirements;</li>
<li>The importance of receptive language input and of creating a language learning environment;</li>
<li>The features of a PODD communication system, including vocabulary organisation, layout, design, range of access strategies, and how these can be customised to meet individual requirements;</li>
<li>How to use PODD generic template resources to produce customised communication books.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Schedule: </strong></p>
<p>Wednesday 22nd March 2023: 9am &#8211; 5pm UTC</p>
<p>Thursday 23rd March 2023: 9am &#8211; 5pm UTC</p>
<p><span style="font-size: .9375rem;"><strong><strong>Cost: </strong></strong>£225</span></p>
<p>Directions to Ace Centre can be found here: <a href="https://acecentre.org.uk/contact/oldham">https://acecentre.org.uk/contact/oldham</a></p>



Oldham

PODD 2 Day Introductory Workshop

<p><b> A live webinar to introduce Ace Centre&#8217;s resource &#8216;Developing and Using a Communication Book&#8217;.</b></p>
<p><b>Course aim:</b></p>
<p>To  share information about Ace Centre&#8217;s &#8216;Developing and Using a Communication Book&#8217;  and explore how it is organised, and who it is suitable for. This session will consider the different Stages and how to select the appropriate Stage for an individual requiring a personalised communication book.</p>
<p><b>You will learn:</b></p>
<ul>
<li>How communication books differ from communication charts and when they might be required</li>
<li>The key features of &#8216;Developing and Using a Communication Book&#8217;</li>
<li>Who &#8216;Developing and using a Communication Book&#8217; may be suitable for</li>
<li>Where to go next with creating and making a book</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Suitable for:</b></p>
<p>Practitioners working with people who use AAC who are responsible for developing communication resources and enabling use of AAC across different environments. This course is working towards the following:</p>
<p><b>IPAACKS Competencies</b></p>
<p>Identifying needs</p>
<div id="yui_3_17_2_1_1606861226390_568">
<ul>
<li id="yui_3_17_2_1_1606861226390_567">Recognise when someone has communication support needs</li>
<li>Aware of the need for a personalised assessment to identify the contribution AAC may make to an individual’s ability to communicate</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><b>Course includes: </b></p>
<p>A live webinar to introduce this resource and provide guidance about how to develop the book from templates. The webinar will be 12:30-1pm and a link to the course will be available when you log in.</p>
<p><b>Special requirements:</b></p>
<p>You will be required to use one of the following web browsers for the live webinar: Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Safari or Safari Mobile</p>
<p><b>Time</b>: 12.30-1pm UTC</p>
<p><strong>Cost:</strong> FREE</p>


Developing and Using a Communication Book

<p><strong>Developing Level (Teacher-supported online study)</strong></p>
<p><b>Explore how to develop and use a communication book, who it is suitable for and how to make it.<br />
</b>Develop your knowledge and skills to create personalised communication books using this illustrated guide. Find out who &#8216;Developing and Using a Communication Book&#8217; is suitable for, how to select the appropriate Stage and discover how to use the templates in Boardmaker 7 to create an individualised resource. This session will be in two parts and is supported by Tobii Dynavox.<b><br />
</b></p>
<p>This course is over two sessions which will provide an appraisal of vocabulary to make a communication book exploring the principles behind Ace Centre&#8217;s &#8216;Developing and Using a Communication Book&#8217;.</p>
<p><b>Course aim:</b></p>
<p>To introduce the principles of &#8216;Developing and Using a Communication Book&#8217;  and consider who it is suitable for and how to select the appropriate stage. This course will combine webinars and self -directed online study.</p>
<p><b>You will learn:</b></p>
<ul>
<li>To describe the vocabulary organisation of the DUCB resource</li>
<li>To state which level of DUCB would be suitable for an individual and why</li>
<li>To manipulate DUCB templates in Boardmaker 7 to create a communication book</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Suitable for:</b></p>
<p>Practitioners working with people who use AAC who are responsible for developing communication resources and enabling use of AAC across different environments.</p>
<p><b>IPAACKS Competencies:</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Implementation</li>
<li>Able to select and format vocabulary appropriate to the person using AAC, with guidance as appropriate</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Course includes:</b></p>
<p>3 months access to online materials, 2 live webinars and free trial of Boardmaker 7/ InPrint3</p>
<p><strong>Session 1: 27th April 2023 (1.30pm – 4.30pm UTC+1) </strong>Interactive webinar exploring when you might introduce a personalised communication book, different ways to organise language, and different methods of retrieval. The session will focus on Ace Centre’s Developing and Using a Communication Book and how to identify and select appropriate vocabulary.</p>
<p id="yui_3_17_2_1_1643368156865_783"><strong>Session 2: 4th May 2023 (1.30pm – 4.30pm UTC +1)</strong> Interactive webinar utilising symbol software to create a personalised communication book.</p>
<p><b>Special requirements:</b></p>
<p>A laptop to install and trial Boardmaker 7/ InPrint3</p>
<p>You will be required to use one of the following web browsers for the live webinar: Chrome, Microsoft Edge, FireFox, Safari or Safari Mobile</p>
<p><b>Cost:</b> £120</p>



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