I thoroughly enjoyed Barb Rentenbach's presentation. I think that in a lot of ways it showed a broad audience what people with disabilities are capable of and that our ability to communicate is not limited to our ability to speak. Barb's ability to write is astounding, especially her comprehension of humor. Often, individuals with autism struggle with socially intricate concepts such as humor, but Barb has quite a mastery of it.
I wish that there would have been a broader use of facilitated communication. I feel that is something important for people to see and be comfortable interacting with, especially a group of educators. While I understand that it can take up more time, I really believe it would have been beneficial and interesting. As Lois mentioned, that may have been a personal choice on Barb's behalf.
After seeing this presentation, it makes me think of students with autism in a different way -- thought without language is an intensely interesting concept that I actually struggle wrapping my head around. I would love to read more works by Barb and look in to the support Lois' organization provides for individuals with autism.
I totally agree with you that watching Barb's ability to write and communicate was astounding! Even though I have worked with people with disabilities before, I still get surprised by the amazing things they are capable of. I agree that it would have been nice to see more of the facilitated communication. It is something that educators and anyone working with people with disabilities need to become more comfortable. It would have been really interesting to see other comments and thoughts Barb would have shared with the audience.
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