Working with Inclusive Technologies to Improve Written Language with Jim Sprialis

Special Education Planning offers professional learning for educators.These sessions are in the format of face- to -face workshops in Adelaide, or webinars.These sessions provide the foundation for successful planning for children/ students with disability and are suitable for classroom teachers, support staff, school leaders or relief teachers.

Special Education Planning

The development of written communication skills relies on a complex range of skills and knowledge. Students can have difficulties developing these skills for a wide range of reasons including inadequate language skills, prior knowledge, ineffective strategies, and poor spelling skills. This workshop will explore inclusive technologies that can assist students who struggle to express ideas as meaningful text and to support them at various stages of the writing process (including the precursor of note taking). Multimodal technology options as alternate means of written communication will also be explored.
Participant outcomes:
<UL>
<LI>A greater awareness of the role of technology in the development of written language</LI>
<LI>Improved knowledge of technology options that support the building of writing skills</LI>
<LI>Adjustments to support alternate means of written communication</LI>
<LI>A more informed approach to match technology that meets the needs of the learner </LI>
</UL>
Participants are encouraged to bring a fully charged iPad and/ or laptop. Some of the practical activities in this workshop will utilise free online tools and accessibility features built into the device. 
 PRESENTER Jim Sprialis is a leading influence in the promotion and use of inclusive and assistive technologies in South Australia’s education and training arena. He has been an educator for 28 years and during the past decade, managed the education department’s Inclusive Technology Service. Jim now offers expert advice, presentations, professional development programs and training and support in a broad portfolio of inclusive technology solutions to schools, the tertiary sector and workplaces. With a specialist knowledge base around disability and learning differences such as dyslexia, he is passionate about promoting inclusive technologies and universal design approaches that can benefit everyone in their productivity and lifelong learning.
INTENDED AUDIENCE This workshop is suitable for junior primary, primary, secondary educators, special educators and assistants. Parents and other professionals are welcome to attend as well.
INCLUSIONS Participants will receive a certificate of attendance referenced to the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers.  
Participants will receive handouts and suggested reading to build on this professional learning.
Tea, coffee and snacks are included.
TESTIMONIALS 'I am a kindy relief teacher and I have been to one workshop previously and it was informative and at a good level of understanding so thank you for running these at an affordable price' Marian Harper (Early Childhood Teacher)
'I enjoyed the workshop. It was informative and we were able to share views and opinions. I was able to update my knowledge on students with disabilities'. Gaylene Green (JP Teacher)
'I found the session really informative and enjoyed that you covered all types of strategies for different behavioural needs. I found it really beneficial for you to mention/list the different resources available. This session will definitely improve my one on one sessions with students and I look forward to attending some more of your seminars'' Chandra Payne (School Services Officer) 'Leanne’s workshops convey practical information and insights in a relevant and concise manner. I have learnt so much about many aspects of special education, incorporating positive strategies and resources, which I can readily use to support my professional practice. I thoroughly recommend Leanne’s workshops as a great source of professional learning for us as educators, to feel inspired and well-supported' C.B. 'This workshop exceeded all my expectations' Abbie Kemp (Junior Primary Teacher)
FAQs
 What can I bring into the event?
You require a pen and something to lean on when writing.
 How can I contact the organiser with any questions?
You can contact Special Education Planning at info@specialeducationplanning.com.au
What's the refund policy?
You are entitled to a refund, minus the booking fee, up to 30 days prior to the event.