Indiana AAC Summit 2026

Ready to make AI work for you?

Lauren says “Here's what it IS about: the magic of truly observing AAC users, leaning in close, and discovering what REALLY matters to each person. Then, creating a “plan” for REAL immersive AAC language experiences that are entirely student/communicator led. AI is simply the tool that gives us speedy or “souped up” ideas once we have those observations. The real work—the relationship-building, the curiosity, the presuming of potential—that's all us! This workshop teaches you to become an expert observer first. Then we show you how AI can accelerate the creation of materials that honor what you've discovered”.

Learning Outcomes

Participants will be able to:

1. Apply observation strategies to identify individual AAC users' interests, motivations, and communication priorities as the foundation for all intervention planning

2. Create personalized, joy-centered AAC materials using AI by translating observations into effective prompts that honor autonomy and authentic self-expression

3. Evaluate AI-generated materials to ensure they honor communication rights, provide comprehensive language access, and align with what you've observed about individual AAC users

4. Use AI to streamline administrative tasks, freeing up more time for observation and relationship-centered support

Develop a personal collection of observation-based AI prompts ready for immediate use with their own students

Lauren Enders Gonzales

Bio

Lauren is a licensed and ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist and special educator with nearly 30 years of experience in Eastern Pennsylvania schools. Lauren is the founder and president of Engaging AAC Solutions, LLC, a newly formed (2024) consulting business offering professional development, coaching, resource creation, and social media content creation. Known for her user-friendly online and print resources, eye-catching visual supports, and interactive presentation style, Lauren is a sought-after speaker at local, national, and international conferences and events, including Closing the Gap, ATIA, ISAAC, and ASHA.