SYMPOSIUM

AAC EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE:
HONORING THE VALUES OF FAMILIES
AND PEOPLE WHO RELY ON AAC

     Thursday, August 4, 2005    

Being held immediately preceding PEC 2005
(Note: Special arrangement for Families)

New: Directions to Forbes Tower

School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA

Symposium introductory & keynote speakers

Filip Loncke, Ph.D.
University of Virginia
2004 President of ISAAC

Al Condeluci, Ph.D.
UCP of Pittsburgh
Author and advocate on disability rights

Special guest speakers

Robin Hurd
Parent Corner Columnist and
Parent of twins who rely on AAC


David Chapple
AACI Trustee and
Individual who uses AAC


Carolyn Wiles Higdon, Ph.D.
University of Mississippi

Gail M. VanTatenhove, M.A.
Private Practice

Presenters will challenge assumptions attendees have about augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) evidence-based practice (EBP) and performance measurement. Are we moving together toward achieving more successful outcomes for persons who rely on AAC? How can families and persons who rely on AAC be more involved in applying the principles of EBP? Are professionals effectively identifying evidence that includes consumer values about communication and quality of life? Symposium attendees will learn about current tools and resources to support EBP, and steps influenced by COPES (client oriented practical evidence search). Families and professionals can work together to have a greater impact on how evidence is being used? Discussion panels will brainstorm on strengths, weaknesses, and improvements needed to more effectively ensure EBP leads to the most effective communication possible for persons who rely on AAC.

Stay to experience the Pittsburch Employment Conference for Augmented Communicators (PEC). This is considered by many to be the most important event in the field of AAC. PEC is the world's largest gathering of people who use AAC. For more information, go to: http://www.sciconics.com/index.html

AAC Institute is approved by the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) to provide continuing education activities in speech-language pathology and audiology. This program is offered for up to 0.6 CEUs (Intermediate level; Professional area). ASHA CE Provider approval does not imply endorsement of course content, specific products, or clinical procedures.

Special Arrangement for Families
In cooperation with Jennifer Lowe, Executive Director of SHOUT, the AAC Institute has arranged a special registration agreement for families attending the AACI Symposium to attend the Pittsburgh Employment Conference (PEC) for Augmented Communicators. Many parents planning on attending the Thursday, 4 August Symposium on AAC and Honoring Family Values expressed an interest in seeing what happens at PEC and having their child who uses AAC experience this event. Now, families attending the AACI Symposium can attend PEC on Friday for only $50.00. This special agreement is extended only to families attending the AACI Symposium being held at the University of Pittsburgh. Use the Special Registration Form.

Agenda
Registration
Sponsors
2004 Symposium Archive