Trainings

Technology for Language and Cognitive Development and Alternative Assessment

Madalaine Pugliese Ed.S.
August 18-19, 2008
To download a brochure click here

Stages is a seven-level developmental framework that describes competency-based abilities for learners with intensive cognitive and language challenges. Stages software helps schools comply with evidence based practice and alternate assessment mandates by providing an accessible way to measure progress for learners with special needs. Stages also serves as a selection guide for curriculum activities (including both practice software and off-computer activities). During the workshop you will learn about the Stages software tools to assess skill levels of learners with cognitive and language delays. You will learn a systematic approach for selecting appropriate software for individual learners within the Stages framework. You will also learn how to use the Stages Report Wizard to extract and present data and show a learner's achievement over time.

Students will:

  • Learn an alternative curriculum and develop software selection strategies based on an originally created diagnostic/prescriptive continuum to produce a standards-based supportive learning environment.
  • Learn alternative assessment strategies based on contemporary research, which result in providing content for building a custom learner portfolio.
  • Learn to create long range plans to address technology-based needs for learners with cognitive and language delay.
  • Increase awareness of quality software applications for curriculum–based activities for learners with language and cognitive delay.
  • Understand software features that allow for access and use by a variety of learner populations.
  • Identify elements of the standard education curriculum for which these applications are appropriate.
  • Utilize activity based software tools to measure and record student performance with accessible software activities.
  • Analyze, summarize, and report student performance data to aid instructional decision making regarding technology.
  • Define measurable objectives to monitor progress toward achieving stated goals regarding technology.

Presenter: Madalaine Pugliese Ed.S.
Ms. Pugliese has over 30 years of experience in public education and is a nationally recognized speaker and authority in assistive technology. Her achievements include:

  • Director of Assistive Technology Graduate Program at Simmons College, Boston, MA
  • Author of Stages Developmental Framework (book and accessible diagnostic software) (Computerworld Honors Program Laureate 2001)
  • Director of the Assistive Technology Project of the Massachusetts Department of Education (Computerworld Smithsonian Laureate 2000)
  • Distinguished Educator from Apple Computer, Inc., 1999
  • Named as a "Shaper of the Future" by Converge Magazine, September 1999.
  • Named one of the Ten Most-Influential Assistive Technology Specialists in the country by Microsoft/IntelliTools partnership
  • Former Co-director of Camp Apple, summer program for educators on new instructional technology
  • Founder of Adaptive Rehabilitation Technology, a nonprofit organization offering information and resources for families and individuals with needs for adaptive technologies
  • Three Masters degrees: Curriculum/Administration of Education (Suffolk University), Special Education (Simmons College), and Educational Technology (Lesley College).
  • Ed.S. Degree in Assistive Technology (Simmons College)

    Date:
    August 18-19, 2008

    Time:
    8:30 am - 4:30 pm

    Cost:
    $295.00 which includes 14 Professional Development Points, lunch and refreshments.
    Payment is made to The Reading Institute.

    Graduate Credit:
    1 Graduate Credit is available through Endicott College. Payment for 1 Graduate Credit of $50.00 is made to Endicott College on the first day of class.

    Location:
    The Reading Institute;
    430 Main Street, Williamstown, MA

    Materials:
    Materials will be handed out at the training.

    Enrollment:
    Register Early - limited enrollment.

    Registration Deadline:
    July 18, 2008

    Registration Form:
    Click here to download a printable registration form. Include registration form with your school's purchase order, check payment or credit card payment.

    Refund Policy/ Cancellation:
    • Cancel 20 days before training- full refund.
    • Cancel within 20 days of training- full refund minus $25 service charge.
    • Cancel after start of training- no refund.

    Substitutions:
    Substitutions may be made. Please notify The Reading Institute with the name of the alternate participant in advance.

    Confirmations:
    Confirmations and directions will be mailed to each participant. You are not registered unless you receive a confirmation letter.

    Accommodations:
    Reservations need to be made directly with the hotels. A lodging list will be sent with your confirmation. Specify you are with The Reading Institute when making reservations. Be sure to make lodging reservations early for best selection.