TECHNOLOGY
Augmentative Communication and Empowerment Supports (ACES)
SAVE THE DATE: ACES 2013 July 15 through July 31, 2013
What is "ACES"?
Augmentative Communication and Empowerment Supports, or "ACES," is a program for young adults who use communication technology (speech generating devices or "SGD") transitioning from school to work, to help develop and refine their communication, including computer access and use for daily living/job skills.
Developed in 1990 at the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University by Diane N. Bryen, PhD, ACES is staffed by communication professionals and other qualified experienced personnel - including mentors who are SGD users themselves.
Participants attend a 10-day learning experience on the main campus of Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, following up to one year of preparation and planning supports.
ACES 2011 Schedule
Those who participate are in ACES as students should be...
- Young adults focusing on "transition"
- School to work, home to community, other - Current users of a speech-generating device
- Able to use device for basic communication needs
- Variety of devices: 2011 Participants' Systems included:
Dynavox V & VMax; PRC Vantage Lite, Vanguard, and ECO; Tobii C12; iPads with TouchChat and Predictable apps)
- For ideas of specific communication goals addressed during ACES, download and read the Sample Goals - Able to maintain focus and energy for 10 full days of learning and work
- Variety of educational or medical diagnoses
- Stay in dorms on Temple main campus - A "local" resident within a 3-hour drive of Philadelphia
- Capable of bringing a tutor to support learning and carryover
- Family member, friend, attendant
If you are interested in being a participant at ACES 2013, please download and complete this form:
ACES 2013 Application
Those staffing ACES will be...
- Licensed speech-language pathologists
- Assistive technology professionals
- RESNA ATP - Empowerment Course Facilitator/Instructor
- Self-Advocate, Background in Disability Studies - Residential Advisor
- Administrative Coordinator
- Family's contact for logistics, questions - ACES Mentor
- Advanced SGD user as role model
- Personal perspective as former ACES graduate
Those who volunteer to work at ACES...
ACES volunteer positions are designed with a focus on both learning and mentoring. The program aims to increase the AAC capacity of current or future professionals.
- Student Volunteers
- Unique learning experience
- Orientation and background information provided
- Undergraduate and graduate students in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) or related fields - Interns
- For credit, clinical, or work experience
- Potential credit options:
*Curriculum and Volunteer Coordinator
*Communication Course Intern
*Computer Course Intern - Professionals
- Continuing education, additional AAC experience
- Potential ACT 48 credits or ASHA CEUs
- Special education teachers, SLPs, ATPs, or related fields
For more information about ACES as a professional learning experience, review the information from the 2012 PSHA Convention session or download the handout.
If you are interested in being a volunteer at ACES, please come back. The application will be available soon.
For more information
Download ACES "Frequently Asked Questions"
Contact: Carrie Leonhart, leonhart@temple.edu, 215-204-3032, or TTY: 215-204-1805.
