Assorted Lessons Learned During July’s Facing the Future Transition Conference

We know you didn’t all have the chance to attend Facing the Future Together, our three-day statewide transition conference in July. You were hanging with the family, floating in the pool, walking the dog. And we know: Vacation is sacred. It’s okay. Each Tuesday in September we’re going to share a few lessons learned from the conference, with links to valuable info and resources.

Lesson 1: Brian Norton is The Man in Indiana for all things assistive technology, especially when that tech supports young adults in transition. Norton and his team at the Easterseals Crossroads INDATA Projectpresented a show and tell of apps and tools for everyday living and learning.

A few of our favorites:

• Rewordify.com—Free online software that simplifies confusing passages or text.
• MicNotes—A free app that’s part audio recorder, part notepad, for better to-do lists, quick notes, brainstorm sessions, meeting notes, and lectures.
• Switch Access—This free accessibility feature allows users with limited movement to control their Android phones using a switch. (Want to know more about switches? Try this Wikipedia article.)
• Time Tracker Mini—Adjusting to the world of work? With red, yellow, and green lights as well as an alarm, this little timer can help individuals transition more easily from one task to another. Retails for around $25.

Contact INDATA  or Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation if you have an eligible transitioning student who wants to explore the possibilities.