Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication?
AAC includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. People with speech or language difficulties rely on AAC for communication. It can increase social interaction, school performance, and feelings of self worth. |
Types of AAC Systems
Unaided Communication Systems
These include things such as hand gestures, body language, and sign language. They are effective for people with strong social skills and/or good fine motor control. |
Aided Communication Systems
These include tools and equipment. They can be anything from pencil and paper to electronics that produce voice output or create messages. |
Aided Communication Systems Continued
Basic Types of Aided Communication Systems
Direct Selection
The user points with a body part such as finger, hand, or toe. They are able to choose the icons or letters they want to use to communicate. This option is a good one for people who have at least some motor control. |
Eye Gaze
For people who have limited to no motor function, but do have control over their eyes, this can be a good option. The user selects the words or letters they want to use by looking at them on their device. The device analyzes where the user is looking to determine the message the person is trying to express. This requires more cognitive skill than Direct Selection or Switch use. |
Single or Double Switch Use
This is similar to Direction Selection except that a switch is used to make selections. This option is good for people who do not have as much motor movement. The switch can be activated with a body part, puff of air, or even the wrinkle of an eyebrow. |
Partner Assisted Scanning
A more low tech option than Eye Gaze for people with similarly impaired motor functioning. A partner points to things or options on the board, and the user responds in the way that is most effective for them to communicate yes and no. |
Language System Options and Choosing A Language System
There is no one size fits all for AAC, even when using the same device or piece of technology. Each device needs to be designed to be most appropriate for its user. There are several language system options that people can chose from including symbol size, symbol color, number of symbols per page, digital symbols, cartoon symbols, and alphabet (if the user is literate).
When choosing a language system the following needs to be considered:
Decisions about what language system to use should be made based on motor ability, language skills, and comprehension. An AAC device that is the not the best fit for the user will not help them to communicate with the people around them effectively. |
Likely AAC Users
Many people use AAC. Some people are born needing it while others develop the need for it throughout their life time. People may need AAC if they have Cerebral palsy, Autism, Intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities, a stroke, a head injury, a spinal chord injury, Cancer, ALS, Muscular dystrophy, AIDS, or Huntington's disease.
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Supporting Children with AAC
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Resources
AAC Institute Nonprofit organization dedicated to the most effective communication for people who rely on augmentative and alternative communication.
American Speech Language Hearing Association Provides resources about AAC and how to get ACC support.
Autism Speaks Provides extensive information about AAC and its role for children and adults with Autism.
International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication Works to improve the lives of children and adults who use AAC.
PrACCtical AAC Supports a community of professionals and families who are determined to improve the communication and literacy abilities of people with significant communication difficulties.
AAC Institute Nonprofit organization dedicated to the most effective communication for people who rely on augmentative and alternative communication.
American Speech Language Hearing Association Provides resources about AAC and how to get ACC support.
Autism Speaks Provides extensive information about AAC and its role for children and adults with Autism.
International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication Works to improve the lives of children and adults who use AAC.
PrACCtical AAC Supports a community of professionals and families who are determined to improve the communication and literacy abilities of people with significant communication difficulties.