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TalkLink Assistive Technology

Training and Support Packages

for Schools and Other Service Providers

The TalkLink Trust was established to provide assistive technology services for people who have communication difficulties. TalkLink team members work with people of all ages, who have difficulties in the areas of speaking, writing, learning and / or controlling their environment.

Assistive Technology is a tool that can be used to develop and maintain functional communication for people with disabilities. Assistive Technology tools range from low technology options such as pencil grips, word boards or communication books, to high technology options such as voice output communication devices and a range of specialised computer software and hardware.

Some school students who require assistive technology only in order to access the curriculum are provided for under Ministry of Education initiatives. These are outlined in the booklet, Assistive Equipment Supporting Students with Special Education Needs (Ministry of Education 2000). Schools may refer these students to the Ministry of Education, Special Education for a Specialised Assessment for assistive equipment. In some instances the Ministry of Education, Special Education will refer these students on to TalkLink for the Specialised Assessment.

 In cases other than that outlined above (or where there is an ACC claim) TalkLink is able to provide assistive communication services for people with spoken and/or written communication difficulties through a contract with the Ministry of Health. Under this contract we are able to work with individuals and their support people to find technologies and/or strategies that will result in enhanced face-to-face and /or distance communication outcomes.

TalkLink recognises that some schools and other service providers would like to access assistance with assistive technology, whether it is to meet spoken, written or

learning needs, beyond that which is outlined above. TalkLink offers courses that focus on learning how to use particular software programs. We also offer courses exploring aspects of using assistive technology for communication and learning.

In addition we can provide training and support packages

tailored to the individual needs
of schools and other service providers.

•        Do you have hardware or software that you need assistance to set up,
  or that you are unsure how to use?
  
  
•         Do you require:

ideas about how learning opportunities for your students might be enhanced by using assistive technology in the classroom?

assistance to adapt class computers so they are accessible to students with a range of needs?

assistance to develop communication resources?

advice with developing class-based communication strategies

support to complete a school-based assessment
in order to access Ministry of Education funded assistive technology?

•            Would you like training in specific software programs?
  (eg Clicker 5, Boardmaker, ChooseIt! Maker, Read and Write, and Inspiration)

TalkLink can offer a bulk pre-purchasing package for training and support:

pre-purchase a total of up to               5 hours            at $90.00 per hour + GST

pre-purchase a total of                   6-10 hours            at $80.00 per hour + GST

pre-purchase a total of at least         11 hours            at $70.00 per hour + GST

In addition km costs at 62 cents per km + GST, and half the hourly rate will be charged for travel costs.

For further information about these packages
or to discuss other ideas that TalkLink could assist with,
please contact Ann Smaill at:

09 815 3232 ext 806

ann.smaill@talklink.org.nz 

For further information about these packages
or to discuss other ideas that TalkLink could assist with,
please contact Ann Smaill at TalkLink Auckland, or at:

09 815 3232 ext 806, or ann.smaill@talklink.org.nz