Sara Andrea
M.S. CCC-SLP
Sara Andrea is a speech-language pathologist specializing in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), feeding and swallowing, and social communication. She works full-time at Lane Education Service District and part-time in private practice, focusing on Assistive Technology and AAC. Her experience supporting individuals with complex communication needs has shaped her expertise in customizing AAC systems to meet unique individual needs. Sara has presented at COSA, OSHA, NWRSA, CSUN, AAC Early Starts, and Closing the Gap.
SESSION DESCRIPTION
A Team Approach to AAC Evaluations and Reducing Device Abandonment
AAC evaluations have a vital role in determining appropriate tools, supports, and services. This session will discuss how an AAC team using a tool last evaluation approach helps us:
1) Focus on the individual’s communication needs instead of the technology
2) Reduce device abandonment.
Participants will be able to:
• Identify factors known to contribute to device abandonment.
• Define “tool last approach”.
• Determine the necessary elements for a student-tailored AAC evaluation.
Participants will be able to:
• Identify factors known to contribute to device abandonment.
• Define “tool last approach”.
• Determine the necessary elements for a student-tailored AAC evaluation.
Target audience and experience level: Intermediate - Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs)
*Sessions are open to all registrants regardless of experience level or roles.
Primary Life Cycle: All ages