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For information on the new RERC on AAC, funded by NIDILRR from 2014-2019, please visit rerc-aac.psu.edu.
AAC-RERC Writers Brigade
Leigh Lightholder |
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Writers Brigade: A Key to Plans and Dreams
My dreams of having a job never materialized until I received an email invitation to apply for a position as an intern with the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Communication Enhancement (AAC-RERC) Writers Brigade (WB). Being a part of the WB has given me the opportunity to achieve my dreams and gain a stronger voice in the augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) industry.
I have been writing presentations about AAC for conferences relating to people with disabilities in Pennsylvania, Washington D.C. and Montreal, Canada since the 1980's. These are targeted to people with complex communication needs (CCN), their families and speech technology professionals. I have also helped Prentke Romich Company with their booth, talking with those who have questions about AAC.
As a result of that involvement, I have come to love learning new skills and collaborating with others. I have assisted with research projects at universities, including Pennsylvania State (Penn State) and Temple. I have written articles with Temple through the AAC-RERC, some of which explored issues involving people who have disabilities and sexual abuse. I have also worked with a Penn State student, who was learning common speech patterns of people with CCN. I enjoyed being part of these projects.
I am currently working on a research project with Pittsburgh University exploring alternative computer access methods in addition to being a part of the Writers Brigade. As a result of the computer access study, I have learned I have more control with a joystick than with a mouse. This enables me to use the internet and write my articles more easily.
I am always looking for new ideas to help me find work by utilizing my computer system. That is why I became a member of the Writers Brigade. Now, the WB is a key part of my plans and dreams.
Recent Pubications
Lightholder, L. (July, 2010). Patient Provider Communication. ConnSENSE Bulletin. (full text).
Lightholder, L. (July, 2010). Writers Brigade: A key to plans and dreams. ConnSENSE Bulletin. (full text).