Advanced PODD

Course Outline

This intensive advanced PODD workshop is for people who have completed a two-day PODD Introductory workshop and are now seeking to further develop their knowledge and skill.
This course aims to build on current knowledge and fluency using PODD communication books for individuals who have begun to implement these strategies with students. Focus will be on building fluency, refining observational assessment and implementation planning skills, and strategies for training communication partners. The course will also provide opportunities for problem solving more complex challenges.

Course Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to learn to:

• Explain the features of a range of PODD communication systems in terms of vocabulary organization, layout, design, range of access strategies, and customising for individual requirements.
• Describe the reasons for the similarities and differences between PODD page sets designed for communication books and speech generating devices.
• Develop fluency using PODD to model language during natural interactions.
• Communicate using PODD communication books with a range of different access methodologies.
• Use a dynamic assessment process to identify individual communication requirements and teaching learning strategies
• Describe different learning challenges for children who have severe physical, communication, and multiple needs (including CVI) and identify specific strategies to address these needs
• Discuss the application of PODD for individuals with ASD.
• Discuss the teaching and learning strategies for implementing PODD communication systems with students and team members
• Teach communication partners to provide receptive input using PODD communication books
• Teach children and partners to use PODD communication books in daily environments
• Identify strategies to combat the challenges faced by professionals creating an aided language learning environment for children with a wide range of complex communication needs.
• Develop IEP goals and tools to measure the development of autonomous communication.
• Discuss strategies for developing communication accessible schools and communities.

Course Instructor

Gayle Porter is a Speech Pathologist with over 30 years hands on experience in the field working with people with complex communication needs. Gayle currently works at the Cerebral Palsy Education Centre in Melbourne, Australia. She also has a private practice working with both children and teenagers with complex communication needs in their schools. Gayle developed and has published resources on the Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display (PODD) communication books and pages sets for speech generating devices. In addition, she has authored articles, publications and chapters on Augmentative and Alternative Communication and cerebral palsy. Gayle is a highly sort after international presenter.

Linda Burkhart is an internationally known teacher and leader in the field of assistive technology, adaptive play and augmentative communication for children with severe challenges. With more than 45 years of experience in this field. She has developed numerous adapted materials and innovative strategies for teaching children to be active learners and develop their abilities to be participate in life. She is the author of a number of books and software titles on topics of assistive technology and augmentative communication.
Linda was a classroom teacher for fifteen years. Then for eight years, she worked as an Augmentation Communication and Assistive Technology Specialist for the Centre for technology in Education – a joint project between the Johns Hopkins University and the Maryland State Department of Education. Currently, Linda works as a private consultant, Assistive Technology and AAC specialist. She presents trainings and workshops nationally and internationally

Terms and Conditions
– Registration will be confirmed only upon receiving invoice or full payment.
– If the participant is absent without valid reason or without supporting document, full course fees will be charged with no refund