Intro to PODD

August 11 & 12, 2026

Innov-AT is happy to welcome Kelly Fonner, certified PODD trainer, to provide the two-day official Introductory PODD Course to demonstrate the use of a Pragmatic Organization of Dynamic Display (PODD) approach for communication.

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This is a two-day course that will demonstrate the use of a Pragmatic Organization of Dynamic Display (PODD) approach developed by Gayle Porter (Melbourne, Australia). Generic templates for multi-page “light tech” communication books have been carefully designed to support genuine communication for a variety of functions throughout the day. These templates may be customized for a range of access methods and other individual needs. The newer electronic versions available through the Grid & Compass Apps will also be briefly demonstrated.

Participants will learn strategies for creating multi-modal language learning environments that provide receptive models and expressive opportunities for language development. Learn strategies for teaching and using PODD with children and their communication partners. A wide variety of student case examples will be shared through videos.

Participants will have an opportunity for hands-on practice with the 2 most used PODD communication books. These are the 12PODD Expanded Functions & the 70PODD. There will be demonstration models of over 15 types of PODD books for participants to view throughout the training. Videos will be of children using these books.

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Training Details

Location: 2400 Church Street, Stevens Point, WI 54481 (for airport and hotel information- see below)

Hours: 8:30 CST- 4:30 CST

Cost: $290

  • Registration includes training handouts and light snacks each day. Meals will be on your own.

  • Hotel reservations and travel are the responsibility of the participant

This two-day introduction to PODD course has very limited capacity so if you are interested in this training, register today!

Professional Development Certificates:

This course meets the requirements for 14 hours of continuing professional development for Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, and Physical Therapists as required by the licensing boards of each professional organization. A certificate that can be self-submitted will be issued following attendance verification and evaluation completion. 100% attendance is required to earn a certificate.

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PODD Two Day Introductory Workshop Schedule

    • 8:30

      • The challenge, aided language development, Dynamic assessment, AAC aims and outcomes

    • 10:15

      • Morning break

    • 10:30

      • Strategies to organize aided language vocabulary

      • Development and general features of PODD

    • 12:00

      • Lunch

    • 1:00

      • Features of PODD communication books (continued)

    • 2:45

      • Afternoon break

    • 3:00

      • Features of PODD (continued)

      • Vocabulary selection & PODD templates

    • 4:30

      • Finish

    • 8:30

      • Selecting and customizing PODD templates

      • Pick up and give show

    • 10:15

      • Morning break

    • 10:30

      • Teaching- learning strategies

      • Creating an aided language learning environment

    • 12:00

      • Lunch

    • 1:00

      • Providing receptive input- Practical Activity

    • 2:45

      • Afternoon break

    • 3:00

      • Aided language stimulation, Scaffolding interactions

      • Communication partner learning

      • Where to begin, where to from here?

    • 4:30

      • Finish

Outcomes:

As a result of attending this 2-day training, participants will be able to:

  1. Describe at least three challenges faced by professionals when creating communication systems, including vocabulary organization, layout, design, access strategies, and customization for individual needs.

  2. Explain the importance of receptive language input and identify at least two strategies for creating a language-rich learning environment.

  3. Identify and describe at least four key features of a PODD communication system, including vocabulary organization, layout, design, and options for individual customization.

  4. Demonstrate or outline at least three teaching and learning strategies for implementing PODD communication systems with students and team members.

Travel Information

Hotels:

  • Cobblestone

    • 1.5 miles

    • 1117 Centerpoint Dr, Stevens Point, WI 54481

  • Baymont

    • 2 miles

    • 247 Division St N, Stevens Point, WI 54481

  • Country Inn & Suites

    • 2 miles

    • 301 Division St N, Stevens Point, WI 54481

  • Holiday Inn

    • 5 miles

    • 1100 Amber Ave, Stevens Point, WI 54482

  • Home2Suites

    • 4 miles

    • 3317 John Joanis Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54482

  • Hampton Inn

    • 5.8 miles

    • 3090 Village Park Drive, Plover, WI 54467

Closest Airports:

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