Home Training Conferences AAC Talks 2025 AAC Talks 2025—AAC Without Limits: Voices, Stories, and Possibilities Session 3B - Empowering Learning using AAC as a Universal Design for Learning Support
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Session 3B - Empowering Learning using AAC as a Universal Design for Learning Support

Speakers: Andrea King and Ken Priutt

Session Description:
AAC technology isn’t just for communication—it’s a powerful tool for learning! This session will explore the flexibility of AAC (Grid) software in ways that align with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) by embedding instructional routines directly into communication systems. Discover strategies that professionals can implement immediately on their AAC and UDL journey to enhance learning, empower AAC users, and make instruction more accessible for all students.

Objectives:
  • Describe three strategies for supporting language, learning, and literacy using AAC software (e.g., Grid).
  • Describe three ways that augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) functions as a universal design for learning (UDL) tool.
  • Identify three communication supports and/or strategies they can immediately deploy across a classroom.
Presenter Andrea King smilingSpeaker Bios:
Andrea King, M.A., CCC-SLP (she/her), is an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist and leads Grid for Education in the U.S., where she merges her clinical expertise with a passion for inclusive classroom solutions. With a background as an SLP in a school setting, Andrea brings a deep understanding of the unique needs of diverse populations to her role at Smartbox.  Andrea is employed full-time for Smartbox Inc., the developers of Grid 3 software and speech-generating devices.

Presenter Ken Pruitt smilingKen Pruitt, M.Ed. (he/him), has over two decades of experience in PA public education. He has worked as a teacher, administrator, and intermediate unit specialist. In those 20-plus years, Ken has been a fierce advocate for equity and a leader in technology integration. Ken is employed full-time by Smartbox Inc., where he supports schools in their mission to engage all students.