It was a project near and dear to her heart.
For PRC-Saltillo’s Jane Odom, M.Ed., the Language Lab has been the fulfillment of a desire to provide augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) materials to educators, SLPs, parents and communicators themselves.
“Helping to facilitate language development means the world to me,” said Odom, who developed the Language Lab in 2009. “Having the Language Lab available as an AAC resource for others has been a joy to develop and grow.”
From that desire the Language Lab has grown – and continues to grow, with a new look and tools to make using the site even easier to navigate and use.
The new website’s updated features, according to Odom, will include guided lesson plans, a new activities section, a new language screener, implementation tips, and more.
For adults, there’s a curriculum available developed in conjunction with Temple University’s Institute on Disabilities.
In addition, she noted, the site features an interactive language screener to quickly assess the stage of language a student is in, and how to determine when he or she is ready to move forward to the next stage.
“This, I think, is a real value to SLPs, educators and caregivers,” said Odom.
Each lesson plan or activity includes suggested next steps, to help learning and growth to continue. Guided lesson plans for each language state help direct activities based on specific language objectives.
The Language Lab’s blog is expanded and full of stories: Touching. Informative. Inspiring. Humorous.
Written by SLPs, parents and device users themselves, there’s a wealth of information, tips, strategies and more, all from people who are experienced and knowledgeable, said Odom.
Like what you see? Be sure to “Like” your favorite lessons to help others choose, as well. Or, be sociable! Share lesson plans and activities on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest.
Looking for something in particular? A more robust site-wide search now finds resources in a flash.
“The best part? An annual subscription is only $19.95 per year,” said Odom. “With so much available, it’s a great way to build language – and have some fun! And really, who can put a price on that?”
