Assisted Technology options for Executive Functioning and Auditory Processing Disorders

TrainingBy

Karen Parker

Executive Functioning DisorderThe 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 DisorderThe 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 sounds2. Difficulty understanding speech in noisy

settings3. Difficulty following directions4. 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 TreatmentWhat 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 StudentTeachersCounselorsParentsSpeech PathologistPsychologist

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 TechLow 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