Step Up AT Tele-Training Toolkit for Trainers (H327S200013 - 23)

2024

The Step Up AT Tele-Training Toolkit is a technology-based professional development (PD) program to coach in-service trainers to support teachers in their implementation of assistive technology (AT) practices during early literacy instruction in classroom and remote learning environments. The project will emphasize the use of a train-the-trainer approach using (a) open-source online learning modules, (b) telepresence robots and bug-in-the-ear (BITE) peer coaching, and (c) video modeling resources to increase the capacity of in-service trainers. The overall aim of the proposed project is to improve early literacy outcomes for young children with disabilities from ethnically and linguistically diverse low-income backgrounds. The toolkit will be implemented in early childhood programs in culturally diverse, low-resource neighborhoods. The project will be managed by an interdisciplinary team (special education, psychology, public health) and our state partner, the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST; Floridas state-run AT program). We will work with FAAST to design and build an open-source online learning platform with self-guided modules, tutorials, and videos. The final product will be housed on the FAAST website and disseminated to state and local early childhood programs. The project will be evaluated using the RE-AIM framework and a group randomized research design.

Training Trainees, Performing Research or Evaluation, Developing & Disseminating Information, Continuing Education/Community Training, Other Direct/Model Services

Education & Early Intervention, Health-Related Activities, Other - Assistive Technology

Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN, Legislators/Policy Makers, General Public

Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Limited English, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote, Urban

National

Federal

N/A