INTERNAL PD OPPORTUNITY: Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP)-Live

The Arizona Department of Education/Exceptional Student Services Assistive Technology Team is pleased to announce “Language  Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP)” with John Halloran, M.S., CCC-SLP. LAMP is an augmentative alternative communication (AAC) approach designed to give individuals who are nonverbal a method of independently and spontaneously expressing themselves through a speech-generating device. PRCs language systems and devices will be used to illustrate treatment components; however, LAMP principles can be applied to any AAC device or system. This is a 2-day, in-person training; due to the hands-on training this workshop offers, seats are limited. This training is designed for special education teachers and therapists who work with students using Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC).

Sponsored by the Arizona Department of Education/Exceptional Student Services

Hosted by Phoenix Elementary School District

Date:              Tuesday and Wednesday, February 14–15, 2023

Times:           8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Fee:                Free (lunch on your own)

Where:           Phoenix ESD District Office

1817 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006

Course​ ​Description: 

Day 1: Foundations of the Therapeutic Approach

LAMP is an augmentative alternative communication (AAC) approach designed to give individuals who are nonverbal a method of independently and spontaneously expressing themselves through a speech-generating device. This course will cover the components of LAMP: readiness to learn, engaging the learner through joint engagement, and learning language through a unique and consistent motor plan paired with an auditory signal and a natural consequence. Discussion will include how this approach addresses the core language deficits of autism, device features that are beneficial to teaching language, and how to use those features to implement LAMP components. Videos will be used to illustrate the treatment components.

Day 2: Hands-On Learning with iPads and Devices

Participants will receive some hands-on time and are encouraged to bring their own device (Accent or iPad with WFL). Discussion will include assessing current language level, setting goals for developmental progression, and analyzing data logging. The presenter will cover a variety of strategies and supports to support language development such as expanding vocabulary in natural environments, modeling, teaching the motor plan, and how to use aided language input. Videotaped sessions will be used for group discussion about strategies that work and common mistakes. Suggestions for language development in school settings will also be addressed.

About the Presenter:

John D Halloran, M.S., CCC-SLP

John is a Speech-Language Pathologist who has worked in the field of AAC since 1994. He is co-author of the Language Acquisition through Motor Planning approach. He has a special interest in children who are challenged by severe physical or cognitive disabilities. He also finds much reward in exploring ways to best implement assistive technology with children who have autism.

John graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 1990 with a bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders. He received his master’s degree in Communicative Disorders from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 1992. After graduation, he worked at Arkansas Easter Seals Rehabilitation Center, specializing in assistive technology. He has also owned a pediatric therapy clinic and after-school care for children with disabilities. He teaches augmentative communication at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

John maintains membership in several professional organizations, including the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the Arkansas Speech Language Hearing Association. He has presented extensively in the United States and internationally.