Speaking of Technology

Purpose
My project’s purpose is to implement the use of iPad Mini 2’s into speech and language therapy to improved students’ ability to communicate effectively. During speech and language therapy, the speech language pathologist will use the IPads as a servicing platform for improving communication skills through the use of TheraApp by Virtual Speech Center which includes 32 different apps in one designed specifically for those with communication disorders. These iPads Mini 2’s will allow the speech language pathologist to provide small group instruction in the form of apps as well as online games and activities to motivate students toward improvement of their communication skills. They will also serve to monitor student progress and growth of their IEP goals and objectives.

Objective
The objective for this grant are for all speech and language students to show growth with at least 80% showing mastery of at least one IEP objective. Progress data and therapy logs kept by the speech language pathologist will show whether these activities ensured objectives were met for student achievement.

Project Action Plan
The iPad Mini 2’s will be used to implement speech sound production, language, voice and fluency instruction and practice for all students receiving speech and language therapy. The apps and online activities/games will provide differentiated instruction and align with the Common Core Standards for all students. The ARI team and the two speech language pathologists for the school district will collaborate in choosing the apps, virtual manipulatives, and online instructional speech and language activities/games used for instruction and practice. The speech language pathologists will ensure that innovative practices foster a differentiated learning environment for all students with communication disorders.

Projected Timeline
The length of the project will be the 2016-2017 school year. Research and planning for the use of the iPad apps and online speech and language activities/games for intervention prior to receiving the iPad Mini 2’s will be conducted. Speech and language evaluation data and progress monitoring will drive the technology used to meet student IEP goals and objectives.

Project Evaluation
To determine if the objectives are met or not, data collected from each therapy session and will be logged to monitor progress and determine if students have met IEP goals and objectives. Results will be compared to determine effectiveness of the project. 100 percent of students will be expected to show growth, with 80 percent of students reaching mastery of at least one IEP objective.

Budget Narrative
Four iPad Mini 2 16GB WiFi will be purchased for $1,036.00. The school will contribute the other $36 that is not covered through the grant. See chart below. TheraApp will be downloaded to each iPad Mini that will provide differentiated speech and language therapy practice for each student using the apps individually or in small groups. The iPad apps, along with the online instructional speech and language activities will allow students to practice their communication skills.