Chris, Melissa, and Maggie Bugaj: "Out of My Mind" Reflections

Talking With Tech AAC Podcast

In this episode of Talking with Tech, Chris, Melissa, and Maggie Bugaj reflect on the Disney+ movie Out of My Mind! This film centers around a young AAC user with cerebral palsy, and has sparked a lot of conversations about AAC online. The Bugaj family talks about how we can take the popularity of this movie to continue and share the message of inclusive education and support for AAC!

1. Presuming Potential and Inclusive Education: The episode emphasizes the importance of assuming all students, including those with disabilities, have potential. Teachers, families, and educators are encouraged to provide opportunities for students with disabilities to thrive in general education settings, advocating for systemic change rather than blaming individual limitations.

2. The Role of Relationships and Communication Tools: Highlighting the significance of AAC, the Bugaj family discusses how multiple forms of AAC can enable effective communication. The relationships built between students, teachers, and parents are crucial for understanding individual needs and fostering inclusive environments.

3. Shifting Attitudes in Education: The movie serves as a call to action for educators to reflect on their practices and biases. It challenges educators to embrace training and resources to support inclusive education, an important concept as general education increasingly incorporates special education responsibilities. The movie illustrates that change begins with educators understanding and altering the environment, rather than trying to change the individual.

Links:

Watch Out of My MInd on Disney+

Supplemental Materials, Including Lesson Plans

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