Conference Theme

For more information about AGOSCI and membership please visit www.agosci.org.au

The conference theme, Taking it to the Streets, is designed to promote awareness both within and outside of the disability sector.

We aim to encourage thought, innovation and action that will enhance the participation of people with CCN (that is people with little or no speech) through enhanced understanding, skills and awareness of those in their social networks. This includes family, personal attendants, educators, right through to government and the general public. We encourage contributions to the conference that explore these issues.

Much of our conference planning and preparation is also designed to address the goal of increased awareness. Here are some of the ways we are building the theme into our conference planning and preparation:

• Logo Design - our fantastic new logo was created by a student at the local TAFE College who won a design competition. Lorna Fenech (a conference committee member) briefed the students on AGOSCI, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and complex communication needs (CCN). The students were then asked to design a logo for the conference. Of the many entries, the chosen logo was designed by Leigh Philip. Congratulations to Leigh, and to the whole class who creatively embraced the concept and learned a little about AGOSCI along the way.
• Opening Address – the Opening Address at the conference will be produced with the help of Carmine, a gentleman with cerebral palsy. We ask that members of AGOSCI and people with CCN participate in the production of the Opening Address by submitting images, text or video that highlight the theme. More information will be available soon.
• Conference Committee members – the conference committee has been proactive in including people with CCN to join and contribute to the organisation of the conference. This has helped us refine and focus on issue relevant and important for everyone supported by AGSOCI.
• Facebook Group – We have created a facebook group for the Conference. To join just log on to Facebook and search groups for ‘AGOSCI Conference 2011’. This is a great place to ask questions, comment on issue that are important to you and keep up to date about the conference. The committee feels that Facebook provides a great way of taking our message to the ‘virtual’ streets and hope everyone gets on-board.

The conference is shaping up to be a great event with diverse presentations and activities throughout the three days. The Conference Organising Committee extends a warm invitation for you to join us in Adelaide at the AGOSCI 10th Biennial National Conference. The 2011 Conference coincides with AGOSCI’s 30th Birthday celebrations.