| Saturday, 8:00 - 9:30 am |
| Life in College, The Real Deal |
| Track: | Living with Hearing Loss |
| Presenter: | Alexandra Lewis, College Leadership Committee |
| Abstract: | This session will consist of a panel focused on exposing students to college life and how to adapt from high school to college where self advocacy is the key. The panel will include questions and answers, tips of how to get services, the issue of culture shock and helpful hints for overcoming the fear of leaving home for the exciting experience of living on campus and perhaps even having an opportunity to study abroad. |
| Evidence Based Practice: Facilitating Emergent Literacy |
| Track: | Hot Topics in Hearing |
| Presenters: | Denise Wray, Ph.D., University of Akron
Terry Hallett, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, University of Akron
Carol Flexer, Ph.D., University of Akron |
| Abstract: | Three audiology and speech-language pathology researchers will demonstrate that high expectations are reasonable for emergent literacy development in children exhibiting all degrees of hearing loss when an auditory-based philosophy is used. This presentation will address the essential roles of audition as a first order event, functional outcomes with accompanying language, literacy and multicultural materials and resources, and the critical role of parental involvement in facilitating spoken language and emergent literacy objectives. In addition, this presentation will address the competencies in the new Emergent Literacy Domain (Domain 9) of the LSLS certification program. |
| Show Me the Money for My Mission |
| Track: | Advocacy and Policy |
| Presenters: | Zareena Koch, St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf
Cindy Costello |
| Abstract: | Nonprofits are expensive to run and organizations serving the deaf and hard of hearing are even more expensive. Specialized therapy, new technology and improved techniques make deaf education fantastic. However, keeping your agency fiscally responsible is difficult when facing budget cuts, increased costs and increased population needs. This discussion focuses on how to identify new sources of funding, how to sniff out the traps and how to move forward with funding your mission in a fiscally solvent method. |
| Lights, Camera, Connection! |
| Track: | Diverse Learners |
| Presenter: | Christina Berghoff, M.E.D., CREC Soundbridge
Elizabeth Cole, Ed.D., CCC-A, LSLS Cert. AVT, CREC Soundbridge |
| Abstract: | This session will have particular appeal for professionals working in intervention programs with a preschool-aged population. In such programs, the children are in school for a maximum of 25 percent of their waking hours. With this in mind, parents and other caregivers need to be totally comfortable not only with the child’s technology, but also with their ability to provide auditorally-based spoken language enrichment. Families can be difficult-to-reach for a variety of reasons including physical distance from the preschool center, inflexible work schedules, poverty or personal bias against school, teachers or other professionals. Despite that, their children deserve the best possible chance to learn to listen and talk. This session will demonstrate research-supported, “outside the box” solutions that engage and empower difficult-to-reach families. |
| Lessons Learned: Developing an Auditory Oral Program "Then and Now" |
| Track: | Best Practices and Strategies for Early Intervention Through Pre-School |
| Presenters: | Debbie Schrader, B.S., School District of Waukesha
Karen Knopf, M.S., School District of Waukesha
Jaye Berghauer, M.S., CCC-SLP, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin
Karla Balko, M.S., CCC-A, Medical College of Wisconsin
Deb Koller, M.S., School District of Waukesha |
| Abstract: | The School District of Waukesha in southeastern Wisconsin sought to expand public school program options for children with hearing loss, and established the first Statewide Auditory-Oral Preschool Demonstration Project. Through the collaborative efforts of the Wisconsin State Department of Public Instruction, AG Bell's Program Assistance Project, Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, the Medical College of Wisconsin's Koss Cochlear Implant Program, Waukesha's administrative team, and families - the established goals were achieved. This session will present the strategic plan implemented by these agencies and individuals, and share resources, tools and case studies by professionals working within the Statewide Preschool Demonstration Project and the Koss Cochlear Implant Program. |
| Self Advocacy: Curriculum for Creating Independence |
| Track: | Best Practices and Strategies for Early Elementary School and Beyond |
| Presenter: | Carrie Bauza, M.S., Child’s Voice School |
| Abstract: | When children who have hearing loss enter the mainstream, one of the most important skills for them to have is the ability to advocate for themselves. At Child's Voice, a curriculum was created to specifically teach self-advocacy skills to the oldest children, ages 5 through 8. A weekly class focused on teaching a variety of skills, including: 1) the ability to educate others about their hearing loss and hearing device; 2) problem solving situations where it can be difficult to hear; 3) communication repair strategies; and 4) skills for learning in a large group. These skills were taught as a class, which was followed by review through role play and practice in large group situations. This presentation will include the effect of this class on the current students' and the mainstreamed students' use of self-advocacy skills. |
| Saturday, 10:00 - 11:30 am |
| Living with Bilateral Cochlear Implants: Adults Speak Out |
| Track: | Living with Hearing Loss |
| Presenter: | Jenny Schwartzberg, The Newberry Library |
| Abstract: | Current studies show that individuals with bilateral cochlear implants function much better on speech and general awareness auditory tests than individuals with unilateral cochlear implants, even those who also use a hearing aid in the other ear. As a result, there is a growing interest in bilateral cochlear implants among the adult oral deaf population. This panel, composed of adults with bilateral cochlear implants, will survey each person's experiences with the decision process, insurance issues, the surgery and adaptation to having two implants. What are the long term benefits and is there agreement among panelists that this was the right decision? After 50 minutes of prepared questions, 40 minutes will be provided for questions from the audience. |
| Selecting Appropriate Hearing Technology |
| Track: | Hot Topics in Hearing |
| Presenters: | Jane R. Madell, Ph.D., CCC-A/SLP, LSLS Cert. AVT, New York Eye and Ear/Beth Israel Medical Center
Reva Batheja, M.A. |
| Abstract: | Technology is the most critical factor in providing auditory access. Auditory access is critical in maximizing performance for children with hearing loss. Selecting technology is difficult. Some children are clearly hearing aid candidates, others are clearly cochlear implant candidates and many fall into a gray area. The child is doing okay with their technology, but not excelling. They hear, but also miss a lot. The audiologist needs to carefully evaluate performance and make a decision about whether a child is receiving sufficient benefit from the technology, whether the technology can be adapted to improve performance or whether the technology needs to be changed. This presentation will discuss the advantages of each type of technology, how to evaluate performance, ways of modifying technology to improve performance, ways of combining technologies (including having different technologies on different ears and adding FM systems) and suggest a decision strategy for moving into new technology. |
| The Joint Committee on Infant Hearing (JCIH) 2007 Position Statement |
| Track: | Advocacy and Policy |
| Presenter: | Stephen Epstein, MD, Private Practice |
| Abstract: | The Joint Committee on Infant Hearing (JCIH) has an almost 40 year history of exploring the complexities of hearing loss and its effect on a child's development, seeking to find newer and better methods to identify and serve infants and their families. Comprised of a variety of organizations committed to hearing health and education, including AG Bell, the Committee's primary activity has been publication of position statements summarizing the state of the science and art in infant hearing and recommending the preferred practice in early identification and intervention for newborns and infants at risk for, or identified with hearing loss. JCIH position statements represent the standard of care and greatly influence local and national policies as well as guide Early Hearing Detection and Intervention programs. This session will address the most recent JCIH Position Statement, published in 2007, as well as provide updated practices that have been developed after the 2007 release. |
| Supporting Auditory Oral Language Development with Cued Speech |
| Track: | Diverse Learners |
| Presenters: | Donna Morere, Ph.D., Gallaudet University
Daniel Koo, Ph.D., Center for the Study of Learning, Georgetown University Medical Center |
| Abstract: | A significant volume of research has indicated that children learn language more readily when their language input is not perceptively or linguistically ambiguous. Children with limited or no auditory access to spoken languages are susceptible to such ambiguity, which can hinder language development. Recent research in the fields of neuroscience, cognitive psychology and memory and learning has suggested oral language skills may be facilitated by multi-modal input. This session will briefly present Cued Speech (CS) as a multi-sensory approach to oral language development and discuss the manner in which CS can support fluent language skill development. A brief review of the research on the cognitive processes involved in language development and the constraints placed on these processes by hearing loss or auditory processing dysfunction will also be presented. |
| Vocal Play: Speech Development for Infants |
| Track: | Best Practices and Strategies for Early Intervention Through Pre-School |
| Presenters: | David Ertmer, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Purdue University
Lyra Repplinger, M.S., Child's Voice School
Jennifer Haney, M.A., Child's Voice School |
| Abstract: | Prelinguistic vocal development is a process by which typically developing infants produce increasingly diverse and speech-like utterances before they say words on a regular basis. For young children with hearing loss, advancements in vocal development are likely to be among the first indications of hearing aid or cochlear implant (CI) benefit. This presentation has four main purposes. First, the process of vocal development will be reviewed and illustrated through audio examples of precanonical, basic canonical syllables and advanced form vocalizations (Ertmer, Young, & Nathani, 2007). Second, research findings for typically developing children and young CI recipients will be presented. Third, a family-centered approach to stimulating vocal development (Short Periods of Prelinguistic Input [SPPI], Ertmer, 2002) will be described. Finally, case studies with video examples will be presented to show how SPPI can be used in family-centered intervention. |
| Listening at Home and in the Classroom with Love and Logic |
| Track: | Best Practices and Strategies for Early Elementary School and Beyond |
| Presenters: | Joanna Stith, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, LSLS Cert. AVT, Listening for Life |
| Abstract: | Parenting and working with children with hearing loss can often lead to power struggles, frustration and constant repetition. While striving to expect our children to hear and listen, avoiding the communication trap (thinking that since he/she can’t hear perfectly or hasn’t been hearing long enough to understand lengthy discussions) can be a challenge. The beauty of the Love and Logic philosophy is using consistent limits, natural consequences and fewer words to enforce what is expected. Learn how to use empathy, choices and enforceable statements while watching video clips of Dr. Charles Fay and Jim Fay present stories and solutions to multiple behavioral issues encountered both in the home and classroom. Attendees will also gain knowledge on ways to avoid power struggles and prevent misbehavior as well as staying calm in stressful parenting and teaching situations. Participants will be welcome to ask questions and describe specific problems and resolutions will be discussed with audience input using the previously mentioned strategies. |
| Saturday, 1:00 - 2:30 pm |
| Technological Inoperability: Devices in a Cluttered World |
| Track: | Living with Hearing Loss |
| Presenters: | Jay Wyant, AG Bell
Kelly Munn, Au.D., CCC-A, Cochlear Americas
Emily Farmer, Au.D, Fairview Audiology and Aural Rehabilitation Clinic
Megan Quilter, Au.D, CCC-A, Phonak, LLC
Tina Childress, M.A., CCC-A, Bionic Ear Association |
| Abstract: | Have you developed the perfect solution for a particular classroom or work environment, only to find that the moment you move out of it you have to spend time and effort making adjustments to cope? Do you find yourself packing four different power supplies whenever you travel? As hearing technology continues to improve, often the range of possible solutions become more fragmented and costly. This panel of experts will help solve problems presented in various scenarios, answer audience issues and help demystify competing technological alternatives. |
| Baha®: Who, What, Where, When, Why |
| Track: | Hot Topics in Hearing |
| Presenter: | Lori Van Riper, M.S., CCC-A, University of Michigan Medical Center |
| Abstract: | To date, over 30 children with permanent conductive hearing loss have benefited from use of the Baha implant or Baha with softband at the University of Michigan Medical Center. This session will provide information on: WHO can benefit from Baha, WHAT the benefits and pitfalls of Baha can be, WHERE you can find a professional in your area, WHEN is a conventional hearing aid, bone conduction hearing aid or cochlear implant a better choice and WHY it is never too soon to consider a Baha with softband. |
| Mentoring Beginning Professionals in Deaf Education |
| Track: | Advocacy and Policy |
| Presenter: | Karen Stein, M.A., Ed., The Moog Center for Deaf Education
Susan Lenihan, Ph.D., Fontbonne University |
| Abstract: | Research consistently shows that beginning professionals have difficulty in the early stages of their careers. The high attrition rate for beginning teachers is cause for concern and may be reduced by the implementation of a mentoring program that guides the beginning professional through a successful transition from student to professional. This interactive session is designed for administrators, teachers, speech-language pathologists and audiologists who are responsible for the induction, mentoring and supervision of beginning professionals in deaf education. It will highlight the essential features of a successful mentoring program, the importance of leadership in the implementation of the program, the impact of mentoring on the current teacher shortage and a review of current research supporting the benefits of such a program. |
| Working Together to Meet Multiple Needs Under One Roof |
| Track: | Diverse Learners |
| Presenter: | Danielle Edmondson, M.A., CCC-A, St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf at Carle
Mary Willis, M.A., CCC-SLP, Carle Foundation ECHO Program
Shwanda Fuller, M.A., CCC-A, St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf at Carle
Sarah Tanner, Deaf Educator |
| Abstract: | Children with hearing loss are arriving at school with more secondary challenges and yet more potential for success than ever before. This presentation outlines essential components of an educational program that gives these children the best chance for achieving their potential. The following components will be discussed: daily individual therapy, theme based curricula evidenced throughout the school day, parent-professional teaming, a systematic approach to communication among team members, access to consistent support services and easy access to audiological support. Video clips, photographs, active learning opportunities and take-home handouts will allow participants to incorporate relevant information directly into their own schools. |
| Babies with Minimal or Unilateral Hearing Loss |
| Track: | Best Practices and Strategies for Early Intervention Through Pre-School |
| Presenters: | Kim Hamren, M.Ed., CED, LSLS Cert. AVT, Listen and Talk
Mayra Berndsen, M.A., CED, LSLS Cert. AVT |
| Abstract: | Often, people consider the diagnosis of a minimal or unilateral hearing loss insignificant. There is an assumption that near normal hearing, or "having one good ear," should not cause problems as children learn and interact in their environment. Some programs for children who are deaf or hard-of-hearing do not provide services to children unless they have a mild to moderate bilateral loss or more. This session will present research that describes the potential risks for children with minimal or unilateral hearing loss, review the impact of minimal and unilateral hearing loss and discuss how to provide support and services to families who have children with minimal/unilateral hearing loss. Video clips will share the journeys of families and children from birth to school age. Strategies for supporting families as they advocate for their children in neighborhood schools (preschool- school age) will be emphasized as well. |
| Mainstreaming 2008 and Beyond |
| Track: | Best Practices and Strategies for Early Elementary School and Beyond |
| Presenters: | John Anderson, M.A., LMHC, Clarke School for the Deaf
Ken Levinson, CPA, MBA, Kornetsky and Associates |
| Abstract: | This workshop will examine the status of mainstreaming and discuss the tools needed to aid students with hearing loss in surviving the rigors of school with children with typical hearing. Through lecture, case studies and discussion, the presenters will outline the current services, skills and technology and help participants gain an understanding of forces continually shaping mainstreaming. Topics like self-advocacy, FM systems, oral transliterating, identity and self-esteem and peer relationships are just a few of many topics that will be surveyed. |
| Saturday, 3:00 - 4:30 pm |
| Hearing Aid Compatibility with Digital Wireless Devices |
| Track: | Living with Hearing Loss |
| Presenters: | Susan Marzuri, AT&T
Brenda Battat, Hearing Loss Association of America
Scott Kelley, M.S.
James Turner |
| Abstract: | Many people with hearing loss want to use cell phones and other digital wireless devices. Recent advancements in hearing technologies and in digital wireless make this possible. Through a collaborative effort among the wireless industry, the hearing industry, research professionals and consumers organizations that represent those with a hearing loss, a rating system for hearing aids and digital wireless devices has been developed. Learn more about this collaborative effort, understand how the rating system works, where to try out digital wireless devices before purchase and other selection criteria that may help a person with a hearing loss find the right digital wireless device. |
| The Dreaded FM: Practical School Solutions |
| Track: | Hot Topics in Hearing |
| Presenter: | Jennifer Cox, M.A., LSLS Cert. AVT, New England Center for Hearing Rehabilitation |
| Abstract: | This presentation "listens" to clients from the New England Center for Hearing Rehabilitation (NECHEAR). The NECHEAR "kids," from ages 5-20, offer their own insightful comments on the benefits and limitations of their FM systems. From their dialogue, practical issues are addressed. These issues include FM sound quality, team teaching units, best microphone practices, special considerations with cochlear implants and practical teacher recommendations. |
| Mentorship Training for Listening and Spoken Language Specialists (LSLS) |
| Track: | Advocacy and Policy |
| Presenters: | Anita Bernstein, Spec Ed, M.Sc., LSLS Cert. AVT, VOICE for Hearing Impaired Children
Helen Morrison, Ph.D., CCC-A, LSLS Cert. AVT, Texas Christian University
Christina Perigoe, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, C.E.D., LSLS Cert. AVT, John Tracy Clinic and University of San Diego |
| Abstract: | Newborn hearing screening, early intervention and access to appropriate technologies have created an urgent need for training Listening and Spoken Language Specialists. The AG Bell Academy for Listening and Spoken Language is supporting LSLS certifications in Cert. AVT and Cert. AVEd. These credentials depend on the support of mentors to train new professionals. But who is training the mentors? This presentation will focus on an evidence-based model for mentoring and provide strategies for identifying goals and developing effective skills in mentoring professionals in Listening and Spoken Language practice. |
| Remedial Reading Strategies for Cross Curricular Teaching |
| Track: | Diverse Learners |
| Presenters: | Lauren Lichtenfeld, M.Ed., Central Institute for the Deaf
Barbara Lanfer |
| Abstract: | Struggling readers pose unique challenges for teachers. Struggling readers who are deaf or hard of hearing create even more challenges. These students require specific reading instruction and carry-over into all subject areas. This presentation will explore the strategies and teaching techniques used in the S.P.I.R.E. (Specialized Program In Reading Excellence) remedial reading program. Participants in this session will understand why this type of program is successful for struggling readers with hearing impairments. This lecture will further discuss the TASC (Teach, Adapt, Supplement, Carry-over) process for utilizing such a reading program and how to incorporate speech, auditory training and language instruction within the program. Through hands-on demonstrations and video footage, participants will gain knowledge of how to use instructive techniques for various needs when working with struggling readers who are deaf or hard of hearing. |
| The Pre-School Experience: Enhancing Early Literacy Skills |
| Track: | Best Practices and Strategies for Early Intervention Through Pre-School |
| Presenters: | Abby Zoia, M.S., CED, Central Institute for the Deaf
Patricia Hoffman |
| Abstract: | Literacy is the biggest predictor of school achievement and success in life. This presentation will focus on the area of language through literacy. Presenters will share the rationale behind the emphasis on literacy at Central Institute for the Deaf (CID). They will also explain early literacy skills such as phonemic awareness, letter recognition, beginning letter-sound correspondence, emergent writing and oral comprehension skills based on reading aloud. An example of a week’s plan will be shared through a multi-media presentation including video. This plan includes a story based on the week’s theme, related book activities and lessons focused on the above skills. In addition, presenters will demonstrate how lessons are modified to meet the individual student’s language goals and skill levels. |
| AVT Video Conferencing for Adolescents |
| Track: | Best Practices and Strategies for Early Elementary School and Beyond |
| Presenters: | Jill Duncan Ph.D., LSLS Cert. AVT, RIDBC/Renwick Centre
Alana Nichols
Kenny Cheng |
| Abstract: | Using modern equipment, it is possible to attain television broadcast quality in a videoconference, which opens up new opportunities for children in remote regions where specialist services are unavailable. This technology can be of significant utility for students with a hearing impairment. It is therefore important for professionals to have an understanding of telepractice, have the ability to adapt existing skills used in face-to-face instruction and to transfer these skills to remote access learning. This presentation will begin with a brief description of current state-of-the-art videoconference technology and a summary of the theory and practice behind this service delivery model. It will identify issues, concerns and successful teaching behaviors and strategies employed in this unique environment. An adolescent bilateral cochlear implant user and her father will give their perspective after participating in more than 75 intercontinental Auditory-Verbal videoconference sessions over three years. |