FCA Conference

15 May 2012

Melissa McCarthy

High-Speed Broadband Applications in the Home

(Who is RIDBC?)

Why is RIDBC necessary?

• Early diagnosis and intervention in children with hearing loss is critical for natural language development. (Yoshinaga-Itano, et al., 1998)

• Children with hearing and/or vision impairment require specialized early intervention support. (Sass-Lehrer, 2002)

Why use technology?

• Low incidence disabilities

• Population affected regardless of location

• Higher incidence in indigenous communities

• Limited supply of qualified specialists

• Recruitment, retention and ongoing PD

What does it look like?

What kind of technology?

• High-end videoconferencing equipment

• Family television

• Next G cellular network

• External aerial

In-home option

Benefits of high-speed broadband

• Broadens reach of highly skilled staff• Centralising staff highlights team approach • Appealing option for rural areas• Highly accessible in metro areas• Consolidation of staff knowledge • Decreased travel time means more increased

time with clients

Possible Applications

• Increased frequency of contact with clients

• In-service training

• Team meetings

• Mentoring new staff

• Sharing expertise

For further information

• Please see our website www.ridbc.org.au

• Or contact Melissa McCarthy Melissa.McCarthy@ridbc.org.au(02) 9872 08211 300 131 923