Assisted Technology options for Executive Functioning and Auditory Processing Disorders Training By Karen Parker

Executive Functioning Disorder The inability to plan, organize, maintain schedules, when executing life tasks.  There are 8 characteristics  Working memory  Planning  Organization  Self-monitoring  Initiation  Working memory  Shift  Emotional Control  Inhibition

Auditory Processing Disorder The inability of the brain and the ears to coordinate sensory input.  Only 5% of school age children have Auditory Processing Disorder  This is an Auditory problem and not the result of other types of deficits.  Symptoms may include: 1.Difficulty differentiating between sounds 2.Difficulty understanding speech in noisy settings 3.Difficulty following directions 4.Sometimes ask for repetition or clarification as if hearing loss is present. 5. May have difficulty in classroom with reading, spelling, math or logic and verbal instructions.

Diagnosis and Treatment What happens next. Both Executive Functioning and Auditory Processing Disorders are established through thorough diagnostic testing. When planning intervention strategies for these types of students it is important to have a multi-disciplinary team in place. The Student Teachers Counselors Parents Speech Pathologist Psychologist

Assisted Technology There are many kinds of assisted technology devices that can be used to assist students with these abilities. There are low tech devices, as well as, high tech devices

Low Tech Low cost, easy to use and maintain.

Low Tech items Colored Text Book Covers Colored Binders Colored Notebook dividers Colored Post it notes Paper Calendars or agendas White board for to do lists Kitchen timer Graphic organizers or boards

High Tech

High Tech Devices for Organization Online Calendars – Free Online List Makers – Free Cell phones or smart phone – built in calendars and timers Alarm watch or smart watch – price varies depending on what you want. Online graphic organizers – some free, some cost

High Tech Devices for Note Taking and Reading Digital Recording Devices LiveScribe Pen or Note Taking Devices Flash Card Programs Alpha smart Electronic Readers Reading Pen