Using The Communication Matrix: A Robust Assessment Tool and a Rich Community of Practice

Presentation slides​
Handout 1-Writing IEP Goals
Handout 2-CEP Communication Script
Handout 3-CEP Day Map
Handout 4-CEP Process
Handout 5-CEP Script Examples
Handout 6-Communication Activity Planning
Handout 7-IEP Development Guide
Handout 8-Matrix Assessment
Handout 9-Prompt Hierarchy

Kelly Fonner

The Communication Matrix is a free online assessment tool to assist in measuring the expressive communication skills of individuals with complex communication needs. The skills measured range from 0 to 24 months of expressive communication behaviors, taking into account all forms and modalities of communication including sound, movement, gestures, signs, objects, symbols, and text usage. This session will introduce you to the assessment and the supports developed within the Communication Matrix Community of Practice to assist you in selecting goals and implementing appropriate communication strategies once you have completed a Matrix. (It is suggested that participants create a free login to the Communication Matrix website prior to attending the session in order to save time and conference bandwidth. www.communicationmatrix.org)
 
Credits: Act 48, ACVREP, ASHA, Psych
Audience: Special Education Teachers; Teachers who work with students who are Deaf-Blind; Speech Therapists; Assistive Technology Specialists; Parents, Guardians, Family Members; Paraprofessionals

Speaker Bio: Kelly Fonner, MS is a self-employed consultant and trainer in assistive and educational technology. She has a BS in Special Education from Millersville University & an MS in Educational Technology with emphasis in Rehabilitation/Special Education Technology from The Johns Hopkins University. Her continuing education & research is in the area of Adult Education & Urban Education at the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. She holds an Assistive Technology Applications Certificate of Learning from California State University - Northridge. Kelly has been a teacher, para-educator, instructional media specialist, assistive technology specialist in early education, school & university settings. She has worked for the PA statewide AT project & has been an instructor in university courses.
 
Since 1986 Kelly has presented at schools, conferences, & to families in 48 states and internationally (Australia, Canada, South Africa). She speaks on a wide-range of topics including educational accommodations, augmentative communication, computer access, electronic literacy, study skills, AT assessment & implementation strategies. Each year, she works with approximately 50 school-based teams supporting students’ implementation of AAC & literacy implementation in the classroom. Kelly is also the relative to individuals with CP, Aspergers, and acquired disabilities, which impacts her perspective on the field. She is available to do seminars, webinars, consultations & workshops. Her website is www.kellyfonner.com.