CONNECT 2024: Full Schedule

10:15am MDT

Function-based strategies for attention-maintained misbehaviour

Friday November 1, 2024 10:15am - 11:25am MDT

Misbehavior driven by the need for attention is common and can significantly impact classroom dynamics and student learning.We will focus on understanding the function of behavior, particularly when a student's misbehavior is reinforced by attention from peers or adults. By analyzing the reasons behind attention-seeking behavior, participants will gain practical strategies for managing and reducing these behaviors using evidence-based interventions. This session is designed for teachers, educational assistants, and administrators looking to improve classroom management and foster a positive learning environment through behavior-based solutions.

Speakers

Dr. Leny Velasquez

Dr. Leny D. Velasquez, PhD., BCBA-D is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over 20 years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis. She earned her PhD from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and has worked extensively with individuals with complex behavioral and learning... Read More →

Friday November 1, 2024 10:15am - 11:25am MDT
Gymnasium

Inclusion, All

12:40pm MDT

Function-Based Strategies for Escape-Maintained Misbehavior

Friday November 1, 2024 12:40pm - 1:50pm MDT

Gymnasium

This session will delve into understanding escape-maintained misbehavior, where students engage in disruptive behavior to avoid or escape tasks, demands, or situations in the classroom. Participants will learn how to identify the function of escape-driven behaviors and apply evidence-based interventions to address and reduce these behaviors effectively. This session is designed for teachers, educational assistants, and administrators looking to improve classroom management, reduce disruption, and promote learning through behaviour-based solutions.

Speakers

Dr. Leny Velasquez

Friday November 1, 2024 12:40pm - 1:50pm MDT
Gymnasium

Inclusion, All

12:40pm MDT

Understanding Gifted Twice Exceptional Children

Friday November 1, 2024 12:40pm - 1:50pm MDT

TBA

Speakers

Dr. Kristy Dunn

Vice Principal, Ecole Dr. Bernard Broaseau Middle School

Dr. Kristy Dunn is the current VP at Ecole Dr. Brosseau. She has worked as a learning consultant under the University of Alberta for many years. Her previous research focuses on the cognitive profiles of high achievers and the assessment of Gifted/2e learners. Kristy has published... Read More →

Friday November 1, 2024 12:40pm - 1:50pm MDT
TBA

Inclusion, All

2:05pm MDT

Action for Healthy Communities

Friday November 1, 2024 2:05pm - 3:15pm MDT

Library

The Changing Face of K-12: By 2035, half of all Canada's children under age 15 will be immigrants and children of immigrants. Even more than now, schools throughout the country will become a singularly important hub for supporting Canada's diverse linguistic and cultural communities. How can schools adapt to support these new families and their unique needs-- and understand how best to connect with them?

Speakers

Lisa Degara

Manager, Small Centres, Action for Healthy Communities

Lisa Jane de Gara is a Manager at Action for Healthy Communities, a federally-funded not-for-profit supporting immigrants and refugees. She has a Master of Science in Digital Education and in 2023 was awarded a SSHRC grant to research immigrant youth in rural Alberta.

Friday November 1, 2024 2:05pm - 3:15pm MDT
Library

Inclusion, All

2:05pm MDT

Promoting learner independence: Effective prompt and prompt fading strategies

Friday November 1, 2024 2:05pm - 3:15pm MDT

Gymnasium

This session will explore the critical role of prompting and prompt fading in fostering learner independence. We will focus on how to effectively use different types of prompts to support student success while minimizing prompt dependence. Through a step-by-step approach, educators will learn when and how to introduce, vary, and fade prompts to promote skill acquisition and independence in learners of all abilities. This session is ideal for teachers, educational assistants, and administrators seeking to enhance their students' independence and reduce reliance on adult support. Participants will leave with effective strategies to systematically promote autonomy and mastery of skills, ultimately building student confidence and success in the classroom.

Speakers

Dr. Leny Velasquez

Friday November 1, 2024 2:05pm - 3:15pm MDT
Gymnasium

Inclusion, All