This page has information about past NWACS webinars on topics related to using spelling for communication. Find links to available resources, like:
- webinar recordings,
- slides,
- and other handouts shared by the presenters.
NWACS is committed to accessibility. As a resource hub, we share presenter-provided PDFs. They may differ in their accessibility.
Spelling as a Mode of Communication
This series is an invitation to respectful, thoughtful inquiry and critical thinking about how SLPs can support literacy as a means of communication. Like with every AAC Learning Network event, no endorsement by NWACS is implied regarding any device, manufacturer, resource, or strategy mentioned. For this series, “spelling for communication” or “spelling as communication” refers to the use of generative literacy skills as a primary form of augmentative/alternative communication (AAC). This may have different forms or modalities: writing, typing, keyboarding, partner-assisted scanning, use of an alternative pencil such as an eye gaze frame, alphabet flip chart, alphabet board/letterboard, etc. This series is NOT referring to a specific method/intervention/program.
Thoughtful Inquiry: Spelling for Communication (Part 1)
Date: October 17, 2024
Speakers: David Kaufer, Stone Kaufer, Marci Revelli, Jo Ristow, Cass Griffin Bennett, and Arti Bhatia
About: Part 1 of this series:
- Reviewed the definition of evidence-based practice used by SLPs that informs our clinical decisions.
- Reviewed different programs used to teach spelling as a method of communication.
- Shared the experience of a non-speaking AAC user who is learning to use spelling as their means of communication.
View Thoughtful Inquiry: Spelling for Communication (part 1) on YouTube
Thoughtful Inquiry: Spelling for Communication (Part 2)
Date: November 21, 2024
Speakers: Arti Bhatia, Sam Bhatia, Marci Revelli, Jo Ristow, Cass Griffin Bennett
About: Part two of this series continues on the topic of non-speaking Autistic AAC users and how some have learned to spell for communication. Information is offered to guide decisions on supporting literacy development. Including when considering moving toward spelling as a form of communication. There are many many literacy curriculums taught in schools. The presenters focus on a few that may be applicable. They also share what is considered good instruction and a good learning environment.
NOTE: the presenters mistakenly state that the UFLI Foundations program is free. You must purchase the manual; the rest of the materials are freely available on the UFLI website.
View Thoughtful Inquiry: Spelling for Communication (part 2) on YouTube
Thoughtful Inquiry: Spelling for Communication (Part 3)
Date: January 19, 2025
Speakers: Morgan Brewer, Sam Bhatia, Lavender Fields, Stone Kaufer, Marci Revelli (moderator), Jo Ristow (moderator)
About: Part three of this series continues on the topic of non-speaking Autistic AAC users and how some have learned to spell for communication. AAC users who use spelling as their primary means of communication share their experiences.
View Thoughtful Inquiry: Spelling for Communication (part 3) on YouTube
Share your comments or questions.