Learning Objective: Implement the curriculum designed for the create station at the PANDA AAC camp’s 2023 session to create a successful in-person summer camp experience focused on literacy learning for learners with complex communication needs.
Welcome to Edtech Exploration, a podcast where we explore ways to support all learners.
Episode 1: “Empowering Emerging AAC Readers: Insights from a First-Time Instructor”
In this episode of Edtech Exploration, host Kim Baglot reflects on her first day instructing at the PANDA AAC Camp and explores literacy support for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) users. Kim created a series of children’s picture books based on core words, emphasizing the importance of having high-quality, accessible, and inclusive books for emerging AAC readers. She also learned about the challenges and flexibility required for AAC users to communicate effectively and the importance of providing opportunities for choice and agency in education. Kim received positive feedback on her resources and is proud to have implemented her learning.
Episode 2: “Exploring AAC Literacy Support and Interactive Books”
In this episode of Edtech Exploration, host Kim Baglot shares her experience instructing at the PANDA AAC Camp and exploring literacy support for AAC users. Kim describes when she realized a book could be turned into a song and recorded it with the kids. She plans on making an animated video of it and an interactive book that includes sounds and movement. Kim emphasizes the importance of meeting AAC learners where they’re at and creating digital resources to support their learning. She shares her excitement about being able to support these kids and families. She hopes to bring her knowledge and understanding back to her school and First Nation Schools Association connections. Overall, it’s a unique and powerful experience for Kim, and she’s excited to continue exploring AAC support.
Episode 3: “Empowering Literacy: A Day of Success”
In this episode of Edtech Exploration, host Kim Baglot shares her thoughts on her third day of teaching at the PANDA AAC Camp. She discusses how she is working to provide literacy support for AAC users and shares her plans for the next day, including creating animation videos and presentations for the red and green groups. She also plans to incorporate sensory and motor input using the go-stop sign for the red group. Kim mentions the positive impact of using robots to engage the children and thanks the BC Association of Advancing Communications for their support. She reflects on the successes of the different groups and expresses her commitment to continue supporting all learners, including AAC users, on their literacy journey.
Episode 4: “Support for AAC Users: Reflections from an Experienced Educator”
In today’s episode of Edtech Exploration, Kim Baglot, an experienced educator completing her master’s in educational technology, reflects on her final day instructing at the PANDA AAC Camp and how they explored literacy support for AAC users. Kim shares her experiences with the different groups, including the activities they did and the successes and challenges they faced. She also discusses ways to improve future activities and the importance of ensuring every student has access to learning that works for them. Through her experiences, Kim found ways to support all learners and is grateful for the feedback she received.