Upcoming Events
FDLRS Technology Function Meeting Sept. 5-6, 2012 Tampa
TLC November Institute Nov. 14-16, 2012 Tampa
TLC Regional Meetings
Region 1 Sept. 19 Region 2 Oct. 24 Region 3 Oct. 5 Region 4 Oct. 5 Region 5 Oct. 24
Gail Van Tatenhove Pixon Communication
Sept. 20, 2012 - Tallahassee
Sept. 21, 2012 - Gainesville
Sept. 27, 2012 - Melbourne
Sept. 26, 2012 - Tampa
Sept. 28, 2012 - Aventura
Conferences
FCEC Oct. 25-27, 2012 Jupiter
FAEDS Sept. 23-26, 2012 Orlando
FCITL Sept. 23-24, 2012 Orlando
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"Technology & Learning Connections - MTSS: Increasing student
achievement through the systemic alignment of technology, policies,
and curriculum."
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Welcome!
| Welcome to the first edition of the Assistive Technology & Universal Design for Learning Newsletter, developed by the Technology & Learning Connections Team, a part of the Problem Solving/Response to Intervention Project at USF. This newsletter is designed to facilitate a statewide and regional alignment of accessible instructional materials, assistive & instructional technologies, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and virtual learning to support Florida's implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS).
The TLC Team includes 5 Regional Technology Coordinators, 5 Regional Technology Specialists, and 5 Regional Local Assistive Technology Specialists (RLATS). Our local service partners include:
The Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System (FDLRS): providing services in the areas of Childfind, HRD, Parent Services, and Technology; including local TA&D, professional development, and capacity building in the areas of accessible instructional materials, assistive & Instructional technologies, UDL, and virtual learning.
Local Assistive Technology Specialists (LATS): providing local support for assistive technology assessments, evaluations, and related assistive technology services. Together we are working to help all schools implement a universal, differentiated core curriculum based on the Common Core State Standards. |
AT & UDL Loan Library
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The online Assistive Technology & Universal Design for Learning Loan Library is open and ready for business. Available technologies can be viewed online in a "store" type environment. Requests will be shipped out for 4 weeks, 6 weeks, or 8 weeks. Approved BEESS discretionary project staff, Local Assistive Technology Specialists (LATS), and Regional Local Assistive Technology Specialists (RLATS) are able to request and check out equipment. For more information visit us at www.at-udl.net
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The PALM Initiative for Accessible Learning Materials
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The National Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM) Center has launched the first stage of the PALM Initiative (Purchase Accessible Learning Materials). This initiative is focused on encouraging publishers/developers to create, and educators to buy, instructional materials that are accessible to ALL students from the start. To help school districts get started considering accessibility/usability in ALL their purchasing decisions, they have prepared four documents which provide some basic background and specific guidance. This information is posted at http://aim.cast.org/learn/practice/palm. (BEESS Weekly Memo, 5/25/2012)
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Engagement Apps for iOS Mobile Devices
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The Technology and Learning Connections Team of the Florida MTSS Project at the University of South Florida has developed an app resource for students, families, and educators. These apps target Academic, Social, and Psychological Engagement for students of all age levels. Depending on the app, they can be installed on an iPhone, iPod Touch, or an iPad and utilized in almost any environment. The resource guide can be used to help select apps that will increase engagement and build upon skills. The resource can be accessed at the link below:
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AT and UDL in the Classroom
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The Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST)www.cast.org presents this video as an overview to Universal Design for Learning (UDL). This video describes the tenants of UDL when creating curriculum based on brain networks utilizing recognition, skills, and strategies and an enthusiasm for learning.
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Did You Know? |  |
A quick and simple app for students to learn and understand fractions with interactive demonstrations, hands-on exercises, and simple quizzes.
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An interactive whiteboard app with support for live online collaboration between students, or students and teachers.
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A schedule and task management app that allows students to enter their class schedule and homework assignments. |
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Resources
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A directory of apps for education by Apple Distinguished Educators (ADEs) to help transform teaching and learning. These apps have been tested in a variety of different grade levels, instructional strategies and classroom settings.
Exploring New Territories
A digital booklet with active links to a variety of topics including Interactive Whiteboards, Video Conferencing & Virtual Meetings, Applications in the Cloud, Web 2.0 Resources, Universal Access, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM), Reading, Writing/Publishing, Math, Science, Creative Media, 3D Games/Virtual Worlds, FCAT Accommodations, AT Competencies, Assistive Technology, Computer Access, Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC), Visual Strategies, and BEESS Technology Services.
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This newsletter was funded by the Florida Department of Education Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services through federal assistance under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), Part B funds. The information included does not reflect any specific endorsement by any parties involved. Please email Gary Pearcy for further information. |
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