Speaker: Joseph Ahuna
Session Description:
Discover how free, easy-to-use multimedia tools can inspire spontaneous communication for AAC users. This engaging session will showcase how platforms like Google Slides, Canva, Suno, YouTube, and AAC Gameplay can be used to create personalized, motivating activities for classrooms and home settings. Attendees will explore creative ways to boost engagement, build connections, and support diverse AAC systems. Ideal for educators, therapists, and administrators, this session provides practical strategies, ready-to-use templates, and inspiration for turning everyday tech into powerful communication tools—no expensive programs required.
Objectives:
- Identify three free multimedia tools that can be used to create engaging and personalized communication activities for AAC users.
- Demonstrate two strategies for adapting multimedia content to support spontaneous and independent communication across different AAC systems.
- Develop one customized activity or template using a free online tool that supports learner engagement and promotes communication in a classroom or home setting.
Speaker Bio:
Joseph P.K. Ahuna III, MPA, JD, MA, CCC-SLP, is a school-based speech-language pathologist serving the KKP complex area on the Big Island of Hawaii, where he works closely with students learning Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). He is passionate about building collaborative teams and regularly leads support groups and specialized trainings for teachers, paraprofessionals, and parents to strengthen communication opportunities for students. Joseph also creates educational AAC content as @speechwithjoe, sharing practical modeling strategies and resources with families and professionals. Through his work in schools and online, he strives to inspire others to help unlock the power of communication for every learner.