This October: Lunch and Learn Webinars Each Week

October is AAC Awareness Month. TechOWL, a program of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, College of Education and Human Development, will present a free webinar "lunch and learn" series throughout October 2025.

AAC Topics Wednesdays at Noon

One-hour webinars are scheduled each Wednesday in October 2025 at 12 Noon, ET. Attend one, some, or all of the sessions.

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) from the Institute will help participants enhance their AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) knowledge.

To Register

Register separately for each webinar that interests you.

Registration is required.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Zoom captioning will be available. To request reasonable accommodations, please email tue50065@temple.edu by September 24, 2025.

Schedule at a Glance

• October 1, 2025 Funding AAC Across the Lifespan
• October 8, 2025 Getting Everyone on Board: Increasing Buy-in for AAC Across Teams and Settings
• October 15, 2025 Communication & Transitions through the Lifespan
• October 22, 2025 Access Granted: Exploring Alternative Access Modes for AAC
• October 29, 2025 Exploring AAC Apps: Deep Dive & Demo

Details and Registration

Funding AAC Across the Lifespan

October 1, 2025 at 12 pm

How do you fund an AAC device at different life stages? This session will focus on funding options available in Pennsylvania.

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the language needed for a speech-generating device insurance request
2. Recall at least 2 potential funding sources for AAC in Pennsylvania

Getting Everyone on Board: Increasing Buy-In for AAC Across Teams and Settings

October 8, 2025 at 12 pm

This presentation will discuss barriers to the introduction and use of AAC systems as they are presented by various stakeholders. The audience will also explore how to navigate common barriers to AAC to successfully implement AAC systems for users. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Define AAC and the scope of users who benefit from it
2. Discuss common barriers to AAC acceptance among professionals and caregivers
3. Understand the impact of team buy-in on AAC success

Communication & Transitions through the Lifespan

October 15, 2025 at 12 pm

Communication needs can change throughout a person’s life. Learn about how transition can affect communication for AAC users and what tools are available to support consumers, teams, and families.   

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify at least three life stage transitions for AAC users
2. Discuss one or more barriers that exist for AAC users at different life stages
3. Recommend one transition-related goal or strategy for AAC users

Access Granted: Exploring Alternative Access Modes for AAC

October 22, 2025 at 12 pm

What options are available when an individual is unable to activate an AAC device using their fingers? Explore different direct access methods (such as eye-gaze and head tracking) and indirect access methods (such as switch scanning), along with some products currently available to support alternative access to AAC.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Discuss the difference between direct and indirect access to AAC
2. List three high tech AAC options utilizing alternative access
3. Identify at least two built in accessibility features

Exploring AAC Apps: Deep Dive & Demo

October 29, 2025 at 12 pm

This session will explore the features of AAC apps available to borrow from the TechOWL Lending Library. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Recall at least three AAC apps available from the Lending Library
2. Make basic edits to at least one AAC app
3. Describe at least one difference between two of the demonstrated AAC apps