Supporting Literacy for Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Date & Time

September 18, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Presenters

• Michelle Austin, M.A., CCC/SLP Speech-Language Pathologist/Assistive Technology Specialist
• Laura Lavery, M.A., Education Specialist/Assistive Technology Specialist

Summary

Literacy is important for all individuals. Literacy skills are crucial for overall academic success, independent living, social participation, and employment opportunities.

Individuals with intellectual disabilities have unique strengths, potential, and challenges. Due to challenges with cognitive processing, memory, attention, and language development, acquiring literacy skills is often more difficult. However, with appropriate support, accommodations, and evidence-based instructional methods, many individuals with intellectual disabilities can develop functional literacy skills. Developing functional literacy can enhance self-esteem and quality of life for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Participants will be able to:

• Define the qualities of literacy instruction.
• Identify evidence-based strategies and interventions and multisensory teaching approaches.
• Evaluate assistive technology tools to support reading, writing and language.
  

Registration

Supporting Literacy for Students with Intellectual Disabilities - Zoom Registration