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Web Posted on: December 7, 1998


Using the Macintosh for Augmentative Communication and Special Education

Terry Johnson
Mayer-Johnson Company

This session is an overview of Mayer-Johnson Co. software which will allow you to use the Macintosh:

  • as a dynamic screen speech output communication device.
  • for word prediction and abbreviation expansion.
  • to make communication displays.
  • to teach beginning phrase structures with pictures and words.
  • for motivational communication with a single switch while playing games.

The programs demonstrated will include the Boardmaker, Speaking Dynamically Pro, I Can Play Too!, Five Finger Typist, and Sentence Key.

The following topics will be covered:

  • ways of using the computer to include special ed students in regular classes
  • how to set up files for evaluations
  • using text to speech with Macintalk
  • using onscreen & regular keyboards with word prediction and abbreviation expansion
  • sentence building buttons allowing picture users to create novel speech
  • using recorded speech
  • scanning techniques (including auditory)
  • motivational communication with a single switch while playing games
  • teaching proper phrase formation using pictures or words
  • using scanned photographs

The Boardmaker software program is a graphics database of the Mayer-Johnson Co. Picture Communication Symbols (PCS) which will allow you to create professional looking communication displays in minutes. Use the over 3000+ PCS to create materials for the entire classroom, center, or home.

The Speaking Dynamically Pro software program is a powerful speech output communication program which will allow you to create custom dynamic screens on your Macintosh computer. Speaking Dynamically Pro may be used as a communication program for individuals who need a voice; an interactive tool for inclusion of special education students in regular education classes; a training program for learning communication and language skills; an educational tool to encourage literacy; an aid for individuals suffering from repetitive voice overuse in the workplace; or as an evaluation tool for use of picture symbols, scanned images, text, sounds, colors, access methods, or scanning routines.

The I Can Play, Too! software program will allow your students to communicate while playing their favorite games. Games included are: Go Fish, Checkers, Red Light - Green Light, Cootie, Simon Says, Battleship, and general board games.

The Five Finger Typist software program is a structured typing tutor. It provides a complete set of typing lessons for both the right and left hand which teaches the technique on the standard QWERTY keyboard for one-handed typists.

The Sentence Key software program is designed to teach students basic phrases by helping them learn the concept of "who" is "doing" "what". Using the program helps children understand how words are grouped together to create simple statements.