Augmentative and Alternative Communication

1.      Communication is the imparting or exchanging of information or news.  It is the activity of conveying information through the exchange of ideas, feelings, intentions, attitudes, expectations, perceptions or commands, as by speech, gestures, writings, behaviour and possibly by other means such as electromagnetic, chemical or physical phenomena.  It is the meaningful exchange of information between two or more participants that might or might not be living creatures.

2.       20+ ways we communicate:

a.       Speech

b.      Posture

c.       Tone of voice

d.      Body language

e.       Facial expressions

f.        Text/writing

g.       Sign language

h.      Braille

i.         Vocal sounds

j.         Music

k.       Clothing

l.         Hair style

m.    Technology

n.      Slang

o.      Acronyms

p.      Drawing

q.      Touch

r.       Eye contact

s.       Hearing

t.        Reading skills

u.      Understanding language

v.       Speech synthesis

3.      What is AAC?  Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an umbrella term that encompasses the communication methods used to supplement or replace speech or writing for those with impairments in the production or comprehension of spoken or written language.  AAC can be a permanent addition to a person’s communication or a temporary aid.

4.      Who is a typical user of AAC?  There is no “typical user” of AAC, however, AAC is often used by those with a wide range of speech and language impairments, including congenital impairments such as cerebral palsy, intellectual impairment, and autism, and acquired conditions such as ALS or Parkinson’s disease. 

5.      What are 3 criteria for effective communication?

a.       Communication partner

b.      Common language

c.    Joint attention

6.      10 different types of AAC:

a.       PECS – Picture Exchange Communication System

b.      Interactive Language Board

c.       Braille

d.      TechSpeak (AMDI)

e.       Proloquo2go

f.        iPad

g.       American Sign Language

h.      Gestures/Pointing/Hands

i.         Dynavox

j.         Single Message Device

7.      Please check out the following video clip.  It is an excellent example of how AAC can change lives!  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyGr7_B2Nrk&feature=kp