This page contains project-relevant discussions and input, collected from notes, email and other communications among the project members and key stakeholders.  These include suggestions about the requirements for the I'm Able to Work training program--an open forum on all topics relevant to the design and implementation of the program.  We will also record questions and answers that come up in the course of developing and implementing the training program. Topics include, for example, suggestions and good sources on training content and learning issues (e.g., tools, impediments, environment); people resources; web resources; and anything else that project members and key stakeholders might find useful.

Assessment and evaluation

> Date: November 20, 2002
> By: Robert Figueroa

Sunrise has standard evaluation and assessment forms that comply with organizational and regulator guidelines.  Specialized assessment instruments and progress reports are being developed--using these and other templates as a starting point--for the project.  These will incorporate both categorical measurements and observational narratives.

Computer-based content     (Top)

> Date: November 20, 2002
> By: Robert Figueroa

Interactive instructional programs specifically designed for our population (adults with serious cognitive developmental disabilities) are especially scarce (content overall is scarce for our group).  Just one company seems to focus on such content: The Attainment Company (see resources). 

> Date: December 20, 2002
> By: Robert Figueroa and Jack York

To Jack York:

We think interactive programs incorporating video is vital; that is, the propensity for the students to relate more readily and immediately to photos and video of themselves and others in real situations (compared to more abstracted representations typical of much conventional educational material). What can you tell us about the use of videos and photos in your programs?

The software we use, and are developing with our partners in Colorado Springs, is all based on video / audio cues of a person's own environment. It's exactly as you describe in this. What specific questions do you have?  - Jack York

Video-based content     (Top)

> Date: January 17, 2002
> By: Robert Figueroa and Paul Starzyk

We are looking for content: a variety of video programs may be appropriate.  One possible candidate, from Attainment, is listed on the national ARC site: 

Everybody's Working: www.thearcpub.com/Merchant/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=arcpub&Product_Code=SA-01&Category_Code=videos

"This 22 min. VHS video shows students how to become successful employees. It features success stories of five employees with disabilities. For example, Larry took advantage of opportunities for advancement; Bob made innovations at the greenhouse; Maurice overcame skepticism to become a valued employee; Sue made the decision to pursue new work. Each biography triggers discussion on important issues. VHS Video, 22 min., CC 1997. $60.76 each."

I think your idea of trying to borrow is a good idea. Pretty expensive for a video which based on the description may only address higher functioning individuals. If LARC in Lee cannot provide , I have met the CEO of PARC in Pinellas County.  - Paul L. Starzyk

Role-playing     (Top)

> Date: February 2, 2002
> By: Robert Figueroa

We are currently scripting short videos demonstrating courtesy and other positive behaviors, which will form the basis of role playing exercises.

Hands-on learning exercises     (Top)

> Date: January 20, 2002
> By: Robert Figueroa

Nancy Fueyo has developed a number of hands on learning tools, including grooming instruments and a station, and progress workbooks.  This is a vital part of the program, that needs to be work hand in hand with media based instruction, as mutual reinforcement and real world application.

Learning environment     (Top)

> Date: January 20, 2002
> By: Robert Figueroa

An ongoing issue is the absence of an Internet connection in the lab.  Such a connection would be beneficial in a number of ways.  Nancy Fueyo is looking into the possibility of discounted or free ISP service based on the nature of this non-profit organization

Adaptive /assistive needs     (Top)

> Date: January 13, 2002
> By: Robert Figueroa

Since a number of our population are unable to or have difficulty using a conventional mouse device, we are exploring input options, including touch screens.

I just got off the phone with Winnie Reid at Cypress Lake high School (239 481-2233) Ashley LaMar is the teacher in Jason's group who has done the research and has the order information for the Touch Screen Monitors. They haven't ordered them yet - funding problems - but plan to soon. He can give you the order information and tell you that the plain touch screens that go over standard monitors are constantly falling off and malfunctioning but are a great tool for the handicapped. They currently have those in Winnie Reid's classroom and you are welcome to go there and see them. Winnie will give Ashley your phone number and email. You can reach him at 239 481-2233 ext. 5162 .
-  Wendy Chestnut

We have had terrible experiences with the touch screen overlays. We love the touch screen concept, but have only found it to work by buying the more expensive screens. ELO and 3M are who we use. - Jack York

We have had good success with the keyboards built by Intellitools, and a variety of trackball mice (we use one in particular from a company called Info-Grip). I'm trying to become an expert on other various input devices like head sticks, pupil reading devices but am not there yet. Do you want me to point you towards experts in that arena?  - Jack York

Schedule     (Top)

> Date: January 20, 2002
> By: Robert Figueroa

Recommended resources (e.g., products, people, info)     (Top)

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Impediments to learning     (Top)

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Instruction philosophies and protocols     (Top)

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