1) Make contact with first responder groups.
If no response, check out the mayor’s initiative from the mayor’s office to enlist encouragement for the departments to have the training. Most of our sessions were scheduled with the training officer, though the chief of the department may also be a good resource.
2). Once you arrive at the training location and set up your materials, start the session by showing the Powerpoint. Details for each slide are in the notes section of PP.
3) During the Powerpoint, demonstrate different levels of the devices and different access methods if you have the materials needed.
1. No tech
2. Low tech
3. Medium tech
4. High tech
5. Demonstrate switches if you have them
6. Demonstrate scanning if you have the device to do that. If not, talk about how it works.
7. Demonstrate how to establish yes/no, auditory scanning.
- Auditory scanning allows the individual to communicate without having a communication device or low tech board. It requires the individual to have the ability to spell and answer yes/no questions. The responding officer starts by asking, “is the first letter between A-F?” The individual responds with “yes” or “no.” If “no,” the responding officer asks, “is it between G-L?” The responding officer continues with this task until all of the words are spelled out and the message is complete.
8. Show videos (or use your own videos, having made sure you have the proper permission from the individuals or parent/guardian)
9. Pass out scenarios and communication systems and allow time (10 minutes) for participants to develop solutions. Field questions and help as needed.
10. Q & A
Time should be about 1 1/2 hours for the in-service.