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Scott Kupferman Honored for Work in Assistive Technology

Award winner Scott Kupferman with one of his mentors, Robert Hand.

Scott Kupferman, Disability Services for Students, was recently honored as the Alfred R. Thompson Award recipient at the Western Region Disability Conference in Fresno, CA. He received this award due to his innovative work in assistive technology and other contributions to the field of disability services. At the awards ceremony, Kupferman was recognized by the United States Congress, California Senate, and California Legislature. Kupferman was also a key presenter at the conference, held Sept. 26-27, where he presented "A Model for Assistive Technology Training" and "Assistive Technology on a Global Scale."

Kupferman had the opportunity to meet Kim Peek (see picture at right), the real "Rain Man," from the movie with Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise. Mr. Peek is a savant and has the ability to read and retain large amounts of information. For example, when he reads a book, he reads the left page with his left eye and the right page with his right eye.


Below is a video of Mr. Peek, which can also be viewed at YouTube.

Brett Christie Delivers Keynote Address at Conference

Brett Christie, School of Education and Center for Teaching and Professional Development, delivered the keynote address at the Excellence in Learning and Teaching Conference, which took place at CSU Chico from Oct. 7–9.

His address, titled “Into the Land of Engagement: Crossing the Abridged Abyss,” focused on our rapidly changing world and how that poses great challenges and opportunities for student engagement. For example, more than ever, there are ways to engage students beyond mere compliance and into meaningful involvement that increases their participation and ownership of learning. As a result, once stagnant content comes to life.

In addition, Christie gave a two-hour workshop titled, "Shall We Engage?: Eyes, Ears, and Hands-On," demonstrating ways in which technology can offer experiences for students to engage with resources, each other, and the instructor.