2008 PEPNet Conference Proceedings

Introduction
Conference Proceedings
PEPNet 2008: Putting the Pieces Together

Providing access services, addressing academic issues, focusing on testing accommodations, utilizing technology for access and instruction, identifying non-college options, and coordinating transition services are just a few of the "pieces" that service providers must figure out when working with students and young adults who are deaf or hard of hearing. When planning the recent PEPNet conference, Putting the Pieces Together, we wanted to highlight the variety of experiences that our colleagues have in providing services to this population. We recognize their creativity in adapting existing practices and developing new strategies and resources to address the needs of an ever changing population.

Putting the Pieces Together provided a distinctive opportunity for professionals to interact with their colleagues to learn more about effective practices and strategies for meeting the needs of deaf or hard of hearing students at the secondary and postsecondary levels. Conference participants engaged is sessions that focused on identifying and implementing research-based practices as well as the "nuts and bolts" of managing and delivering effective access services. One of the goals of the conference was to more firmly establish collaborative efforts among professionals who share a common goal: ensuring provision of the most effective educational programs for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Instead of operating in isolation, we can create additional opportunities to share knowledge and experiences that will have a positive impact on our students as they transition from secondary education to postsecondary education and training programs. It is our hope that this information will truly support each reader to put together the pieces in providing effective services to students.

Marcia Kolvitz, Ph.D., Editor
Director
PEPNet-South