Establishing Sensory Inclusive Theater Experiences

• By: Lauren Tucker, EdD Southern Connecticut State University Catt Gruszka Vadala The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts
• January 10th, 2024
• community, environmental modifications, inclusive events, sensory issues, sensory-friendly, sensory-friendly performances, visual supports, Winter 2024 Issue
• 1835    0

Many sensory inclusive theaters and performing arts venues have incorporated sensory-friendly (SF) or relaxed performances (RP) to increase access to the arts for all patrons. Often, these events are geared towards children or younger audiences and for individuals who experience hypersensitivity....

Leveraging Smart Technology to Enhance Independence for Autistic Individuals

• By: Amanda Pfohl, MA, SYC Lauren Tucker, EdD Southern Connecticut State University
• October 2nd, 2023
• AAC, augmentative and alternative communication device, communication, communication skills, Fall 2023 Issue, independence, reminders, smart technology, speech, technology, voice assistants
• 1224    0

Independent living for autistic individuals requires a complex set of tasks and increased responsibility for caregivers, who often support independence remotely. Considering how technology can complement this task is crucial to maximizing available resources and enhancing the lives of those...

Virtual Job Shadow Technology Mash-Up

• By: Lauren Tucker, EdD Kimberly Bean, EdD Southern Connecticut State University
• January 1st, 2022
• educational tools, IDEA, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, interactive learning, job shadow, post-secondary education, student success, technology, technology-based instruction, virtual training, vocational skills, Winter 2022 Issue
• 14732    0

One of the main purposes of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is “To ensure that all children with disabilities have available to them a free, appropriate public education that emphasizes special education and related services designed to meet their unique needs and prepare...

Literacy Supports for Learners with Autism

• By: Mary Kate Ross, MS, SYC Lauren Tucker, EdD
• October 1st, 2018
• communication, comprehension, fall 2018 issue, reading, technology
• 4442    0

In her article How People with Autism Think, Temple Grandin (1995), a high-functioning person with autism, describes her visual method of thinking. Grandin retrieves words through visualizations and movies within her mind. This type of thinking takes time to process, often making abstract thoughts...