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AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication – A Comprehensive Guide
Author: Dr. Emily Carter, PhD, CCC-SLP (Doctor of Philosophy, Certified and Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with 15 years of experience in AAC intervention and research)
Publisher: National Association of Speech-Language Pathologists (ASHA) – A leading professional organization for speech-language pathologists, renowned for its rigorous standards and commitment to evidence-based practice.
Editor: Sarah Miller, MA, CCC-SLP (Master of Arts, Certified and Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in Augmentative and Alternative Communication)
Keywords: aac augmentative and alternative communication, AAC devices, AAC strategies, assistive technology, communication aids, speech therapy, nonverbal communication, augmentative communication, alternative communication, disabilities, autism, aphasia, cerebral palsy
Introduction: Understanding AAC Augmentative and Alternative Communication
AAC, or augmentative and alternative communication, encompasses a wide range of methods and tools used to support individuals who experience difficulties with spoken language. This isn't solely for individuals who are unable to speak; AAC is also vital for those whose speech is limited, unintelligible, or ineffective for conveying their needs and desires. AAC augmentative and alternative communication provides a voice and empowers individuals to participate more fully in all aspects of life. The field is constantly evolving, with new technologies and strategies emerging regularly to enhance communication effectiveness and accessibility.
The Significance and Relevance of AAC Augmentative and Alternative Communication
The importance of aac augmentative and alternative communication extends far beyond simply enabling basic communication. It impacts individuals' quality of life across multiple domains:
Social Participation: AAC enables meaningful social interactions, fostering friendships, family connections, and community engagement. Without effective communication, social isolation and loneliness can significantly impact well-being.
Academic and Vocational Success: AAC augmentative and alternative communication facilitates access to education and employment opportunities. Students and workers who can communicate their needs and ideas effectively are more likely to achieve their academic and career goals.
Independence and Self-Determination: AAC empowers individuals to make choices, express their preferences, and advocate for themselves. This contributes to increased self-esteem and a sense of control over their lives.
Emotional Well-being: The frustration and distress experienced by individuals who struggle to communicate can be significantly reduced through effective aac augmentative and alternative communication. The ability to express emotions and needs contributes to improved emotional regulation and overall mental health.
Health and Safety: In emergency situations, the ability to communicate effectively is crucial. AAC can be life-saving for individuals who cannot verbally express their needs for help or medical assistance.
Types of AAC Augmentative and Alternative Communication
AAC augmentative and alternative communication methods are broadly categorized into aided and unaided systems:
Unaided AAC: These systems rely on the individual's body to communicate, without the use of external tools or technology. Examples include:
Gestures: Using hand signals, facial expressions, and body language to convey messages.
Sign Language: Utilizing a standardized system of hand gestures and movements to represent words and phrases (e.g., American Sign Language).
Vocalizations: Using sounds, grunts, or other vocalizations to communicate needs or ideas.
Aided AAC: These systems involve the use of external tools or technology to support communication. These can be further categorized into:
No-tech: Simple picture cards, communication boards, or objects representing desired items or actions.
Low-tech: Simple communication boards with symbols or words, often using velcro or other simple attachment mechanisms.
High-tech: Sophisticated electronic devices with synthesized speech, text-to-speech capabilities, and extensive vocabulary options. Examples include tablets with AAC apps, dedicated AAC devices (e.g., Tobii Dynavox, Proloquo2Go), and eye-gaze systems.
Selecting and Implementing AAC Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Choosing the right aac augmentative and alternative communication system requires careful consideration of individual needs, abilities, and preferences. A comprehensive assessment by a qualified speech-language pathologist is crucial to determine the most appropriate approach. Factors to consider include:
Individual’s communication skills: Current level of language comprehension, expressive language abilities, motor skills, and cognitive abilities.
Communication goals: What are the individual’s communication needs and aspirations?
Environmental factors: What are the contexts in which the individual will use AAC? Home, school, work, community?
Accessibility and usability: Is the AAC system accessible and easy to use for the individual and their communication partners?
Technological skills: What level of technological proficiency is required to use the chosen system?
Effective implementation requires ongoing support, training, and collaboration between the individual, their family, caregivers, educators, and therapists.
Challenges and Future Directions in AAC Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Despite significant advancements, challenges remain in the field of aac augmentative and alternative communication. These include:
Access to services: Not all individuals who could benefit from AAC have access to qualified professionals or appropriate funding for devices and interventions.
Social acceptance: Some individuals may experience stigma or misunderstanding regarding their use of AAC.
Technology limitations: Although technology is constantly improving, some AAC systems may still be limited in their vocabulary, functionality, or accessibility.
Individual variability: Individuals with communication difficulties exhibit unique needs and challenges, requiring individualized approaches and interventions.
Future directions in AAC include:
Artificial intelligence (AI) integration: AI has the potential to personalize AAC systems, predict user needs, and enhance communication efficiency.
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications: These technologies can create immersive communication environments and enhance engagement.
Brain-computer interfaces (BCI): Emerging technologies that allow individuals to control communication devices using brain signals offer exciting possibilities for individuals with severe motor impairments.
Conclusion
AAC augmentative and alternative communication is a dynamic and vital field that empowers individuals with communication difficulties to participate fully in society. Through a collaborative and individualized approach, appropriate AAC systems and strategies can transform lives, promoting independence, social inclusion, and overall well-being. Continued research, innovation, and access to high-quality services are essential to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to communicate effectively and live fulfilling lives.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between augmentative and alternative communication? Augmentative communication supplements existing verbal skills, while alternative communication replaces verbal communication entirely. However, the terms are often used interchangeably.
2. Who can benefit from AAC? Individuals with a wide range of conditions, including autism, cerebral palsy, aphasia, intellectual disabilities, and traumatic brain injury, can benefit from AAC.
3. How much does AAC cost? The cost varies widely depending on the type of system, from low-cost DIY solutions to expensive high-tech devices.
4. How long does it take to learn to use AAC? The learning curve depends on the individual’s abilities, the complexity of the system, and the level of support provided.
5. Can AAC replace speech therapy? No, AAC is often used in conjunction with speech therapy to maximize communication outcomes.
6. What if someone is unable to use their hands to operate an AAC device? Eye gaze systems or other alternative access methods are available for individuals with limited motor skills.
7. How do I find an AAC specialist? Contact your local speech-language pathology association or search online for certified speech-language pathologists specializing in AAC.
8. Are there AAC apps for smartphones and tablets? Yes, numerous apps are available, offering varying levels of functionality and features.
9. Is there a particular age limit for using AAC? AAC can be beneficial at any age, from infancy to adulthood.
Related Articles
1. "Assistive Technology for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder": Explores the role of assistive technology, including AAC, in supporting individuals with autism.
2. "The Impact of AAC on Social Participation": Examines how AAC improves social interaction and inclusion for individuals with communication difficulties.
3. "A Guide to Selecting the Right AAC System": Provides a comprehensive overview of the factors to consider when choosing an AAC system.
4. "Effective Strategies for Implementing AAC in the Classroom": Focuses on the practical aspects of using AAC in educational settings.
5. "The Role of Family Involvement in AAC Intervention": Highlights the importance of family participation in the successful implementation of AAC.
6. "AAC and the Transition to Adulthood": Discusses the unique challenges and opportunities related to AAC use during the transition to adult life.
7. "Advances in High-Tech AAC: A Review of Recent Developments": Provides an up-to-date overview of the latest technological innovations in AAC.
8. "Addressing Social Stigma Associated with AAC Use": Examines the social barriers to AAC adoption and strategies for promoting acceptance.
9. "Low-Tech AAC Strategies for Early Intervention": Focuses on low-cost and accessible AAC options for young children with communication difficulties.
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication David R. Beukelman, Pat Mirenda, 2012 The fourth edition of the foundational, widely adopted AAC textbook Augmentative and Alternative Communication is the definitive introduction to AAC processes, interventions, and technologies that help people best meet their daily communication needs. Future teachers, SLPs, OTs, PTs, and other professionals will prepare for their work in the field with critical new information on advancing literacy skills; conducting effective, culturally appropriate assessment and intervention; selecting AAC vocabulary tailored to individual needs; using new consumer technologies as affordable, nonstigmatizing communication devices; promoting social competence supporting language learning and development; providing effective support to beginning communicators; planning inclusive education services for students with complex communication needs; and improving the communication of people with specific developmental disabilities and acquired disabilities. An essential core text for tomorrow's professionals--and a key reference for in-service practitioners--this fourth edition prepares readers to support the communicative competence of children and adults with a wide range of complex needs. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Who's Afraid of AAC? Alison Battye, 2017-08-04 Who's Afraid of AAC? is a clear and concise guide to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in the UK and will be an essential resource for all Speech and Language Therapists, educators, parents and carers supporting children with non-verbal communication. This book sets out to demystify AAC by demonstrating that you already have the skills necessary to use AAC successfully. Key features include: an overview of the different types of AAC analysis of the best available approaches tools to give you the context you need to make specific recommendations and choices thorough sections on different settings including Home, Early Years, Primary, Secondary and Special Schools so that guidance is relevant to individual needs numerous practical examples, templates and activities to help you implement AAC in all settings summaries of recent research and hot topics including eye-gaze technology, using AAC in exams, and internet safety so that you have the most up-to-date guidance at your fingertips. Created by a Speech and Language Therapist who specialises in AAC training for therapists, educators, and individuals with communication needs, as well as parents and carers, this is the only book of its kind written for a UK audience. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication Filip Loncke, 2020-10-09 Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Models and Applications, Second Edition describes augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) comprehensively and offers a framework for understanding how AAC intervention can be used in the process of communication. This textbook is intended to serve as the primary text for graduate-level courses in augmentative and alternative communication in speech-language pathology programs. It also serves as an essential resource for practicing clinicians. AAC is used by an ever-growing group of individuals of all ages, each with their own personal and communication needs. The book presents the various AAC interventions and teaches the prospective clinician which intervention may be effective depending on the needs, condition, and prognosis of the client. The text details how communication is shaped by internal and external factors and how communication affects social functioning. New to the Second Edition: * A revised introductory chapter reflecting recent changes in the field * Thoroughly updated chapters on technology, vocabulary, and assessment * Reorganization of the chapters for a more natural flow of information * New and revised artwork throughout including images, tables, and charts * New and expanded case studies covering different types of communicators, their needs, and AAC solutions Expanded coverage on the following topics: * The debate on core vocabulary and discussion of best practices * Perspectives and views from AAC users * Ethics in AAC service delivery * Research issues |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Tele-AAC Nerissa Hall, Jenifer Juengling-Sudkamp, Michelle L. Gutmann, Ellen R. Cohn, 2019-06-28 Tele-AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication Through Telepractice is the first comprehensive resource guide to Tele-AAC. Tele-AAC is the use of telepractice specifically for providing services to individuals using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This text establishes Tele-AAC as a new service delivery model and promotes safe, efficacious, evidence-based, and ethical telepractice for individuals who need AAC systems. The goal is to provide readers with fundamental information about policy and service delivery of AAC services via telepractice to enable clinical practice. The text details the specific technical components unique to Tele-AAC service delivery, and how the technology, personnel, and service delivery practices may vary across settings and populations. It offers didactic and case-based content for speech-language pathologists across all levels, from introductory to advanced. Chapters are included that clarify and define the term Tele-AAC, highlight the procedures used while providing assessment and intervention via Tele-AAC, identify ethical and cultural considerations while providing Tele-AAC, and demonstrate its application in a variety of settings. The content has been enriched by the input and knowledge offered by leaders from both telepractice and AAC disciplines, and offers readers the right combination of foundational information and principles to help form a base of understanding for practitioners engaging in Tele-AAC. The field of Tele-AAC is evolving and will transform as the technology changes and advances. This text provides a threshold of understanding from which the field and practitioners can grow. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication Billy T. Ogletree, 2021-01-12 Providers of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) face a myriad of challenges in a rapidly changing and developing field. Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Challenges and Solutions is a unique solution-oriented text intended to prepare professionals to face those challenges with a can do perspective. Featuring contributions from prominent AAC researchers and providers, as well as actual AAC users, this resource traverses a wide range of scenarios that clinicians deal with on a daily basis. Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Challenges and Solutions is divided into five sections with each chapter offering a different evidence-based solution. Part I provides an introduction and basis for the rest of the book. Part II focuses on the unique challenges of providing AAC in childhood, while Part III centers on dealing with adult disorders. In Part IV, the authors delve into special populations and issues, such as assisting individuals with multiple disabilities. In Part V, clinicians will find tips for becoming a solution-oriented provider. Key Features: * Contributions from national experts in AAC * Quotes and vignettes representing the experiences of actual AAC users * Featured challenges faced by providers and users alike * Evidence-based solutions for ready application in clinical contexts * Tools for implementing certain strategies, including example meeting scripts * A comprehensive glossary of terms * A highly readable writing style * An introductory chapter with bolded key terms to improve retention of the material |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Effective Augmentative and Alternative Communication Practices M. Alexandra Da Fonte, Miriam C. Boesch, 2018-07-17 Effective Augmentative and Alternative Communication Practices provides a user-friendly handbook for any school-based practitioner, whether you are a special education teacher, an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) consultant, assistive technology consultant, speech language pathologist, or occupational therapist. This highly practical book translates the AAC research into practice and explains the importance of the use of AAC strategies across settings. The handbook also provides school-based practitioners with resources to be used during the assessment, planning, and instructional process. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: The Efficacy of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Ralf W. Schlosser, 2023-02-06 Provides the essential tools for appraising evidence and outlining steps for planning and implementing better efficacy research. This book aims to help researchers and practitioners develop the necessary skills for moving the augmentative and alternative communication field toward evidence-based practice. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: The Handbook of Language and Speech Disorders Nicole Müller, 2012-07-10 The Handbook of Speech and Language Disorders presents a comprehensive survey of the latest research in communication disorders. Contributions from leading experts explore current issues, landmark studies, and the main topics in the field, and include relevant information on analytical methods and assessment. A series of foundational chapters covers a variety of important general principles irrespective of specific disorders. These chapters focus on such topics as classification, diversity considerations, intelligibility, the impact of genetic syndromes, and principles of assessment and intervention. Other chapters cover a wide range of language, speech, and cognitive/intellectual disorders. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Principles and Practices in Augmentative and Alternative Communication Donald Fuller, Lyle Lloyd, 2024-06-01 A definitive textbook for students in speech-language pathology, audiology, and communication sciences and disorders, Principles and Practices in Augmentative and Alternative Communication offers students an introduction to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and prepares them for working with clients with complex communication needs. Editors Drs. Donald R. Fuller and Lyle L. Lloyd and their contributors provide a foundation for the development of assessment and intervention procedures and practices within the framework of the communication model and its major components: the means to represent, the means to select, and the means to transmit. Principles and Practices in Augmentative and Alternative Communication consists of five major units: An introduction to AAC, from its history to current practice An overview of AAC symbols and a comprehensive discussion of aided and unaided symbols A review of AAC technology The components of AAC assessment: principles, vocabulary, symbol selection, and the prescription of AAC technology AAC intervention: everything from the components of the intervention process to examples from specific cases and settings Included with the text are online supplemental materials for faculty use in the classroom. Students and professionals looking for a foundational textbook in the field of AAC will find Principles and Practices in Augmentative and Alternative Communication to be effective, contemporary, and practical. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication Intervention , 1993 |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: The Handbook of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Sharon Glennen, Denise C. DeCoste, 1997 Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a field which crosses many disciplinary boundaries. It is a rapidly changing field that uses the latest innovations and technologies to aid the language-disabled, and requires fluency not only in the hands-on technological aspect, but the service-delivery side as well. This well-written handbook addresses that need and is filled with practical information and extensive referencing. Some of its unique features include overview of development of assistive technology and its links with AAC, and present service delivery models in a variety of settings; discussions of available technology systems, strategies, and access, and issues of literacy development, funding and legal responsibility, and program effectiveness; examines special populations and special environments; includes case studies throughout; and extensive appendixes of devices, manufacturers, associations. A valuable text for graduate students studying communication disorders and special education, the book would be a useful addition to the professional library of anyone working with AAC users, most especially for those working with children. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Engagement and Participation Erna Alant, 2016-12-30 Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Engagement and Participationreexamines the basic components of human communication based on the development of meaning between two people and provides a new theoretical framework for integrating the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) strategies into interpersonal interactions. As such, it is an indispensable resource for speech-language pathologists, special education practitioners, and researchers in AAC, as well as for instructors and graduate students in the fields of speech and hearing sciences and special education. The book employs a creative synthesis of engagement (personal involvement) and participation (exchanges) to describe meaning-making and social closeness between partners. This process allows for the acknowledgment of different levels of shared meaning and outlines a novel approach to assessment and intervention. The book also describes the importance of integrating relational (interaction-oriented) as well as instrumental (goal-oriented) communication functions as essential in maintaining on-going relationships. Most resources in AAC tend to emphasize strategies for enhancing participation, rather than strategies associated with the development of engagement (being with) to enhance communication between communication partners. In contrast, this text uses interactions between users of AAC and their communication partners as a basis to explore the creative synthesis between engagement and participation to provide clinical guidelines for assessment and intervention in both interpersonal and classroom contexts. Key features: A novel theoretical approach focused on engagement and participation as core components in AAC interventionEmphasis on empathic listening skills of both communication partner and user of AAC strategies to facilitate engagement (emotional resonance) between themGuidance for teachers on the benefits of a meaning-based approach to communication in the classroomApplication of empathic listening strategies to people with dementia to address an increasing need for care of patients with Alzheimer disease by caregivers and family membersIntegration of social media and face-to-face interactions as central to developing relationships in AAC interactions |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Aided Augmentative Communication for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders Jennifer B. Ganz, 2016-09-03 Just as autism is a continuum of disorders, it is associated with a broad range of neurodevelopmental, social, and communication deficits. For individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) has a major impact on their daily lives, often reducing the occurrence of challenging behaviors. Aided Augmentative Communication for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders is a practical guide to the field, offering readers a solid grounding in ASD, related complex communication needs (CCN), and AAC, especially visual and computer-based technologies. Widely used interventions and tools in AAC are reviewed—not just how they work, but why they work—to aid practitioners in choosing those most suited to individual clients or students. Issues in evaluation for aided AAC and debates concerning its usability round out the coverage. Readers come away with a deeper understanding of the centrality of communication for clients with ASD and the many possibilities for intervention. Key areas of coverage include: AAC and assessment of people with ASD and CCN. Interdisciplinary issues and collaboration in assessment and treatment. AAC intervention mediated by natural communication partners. Functional communication training with AAC. The controversy surrounding facilitated communication. Sign language versus AAC. Aided Augmentative Communication for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders is an essential resource for clinicians/practitioners, researchers, and graduate students in such fields as child and school psychology, speech pathology, language education, developmental psychology, behavior therapy, and educational technology. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: The Management of Motor Neurone Disease George M. Cochrane, 1987 |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication Lyle L. Lloyd, Donald R. Fuller, Helen H. Arvidson, 1997 This is a valuable source of information and reference for the field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in speech-language pathology. This handbook outlines the history and growth of the field from its beginnings a few decades ago to its current status as an integral element in the clinical and educational programs of individuals with severe communication disabilities. Legislation and funding opportunities which influence the provision of AAC services are presented and discussed along with current legal and ethical issues and future research needs. Speech pathologists, language and communication specialists and therapists. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Interventions for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Complex Communication Needs Jennifer B. Ganz, Richard L. Simpson, 2018-09 This eighth volume in the AAC series brings together the disciplines of AAC and ABA, both of which are needed to address the challenges of individuals with autism spectrum disorders and complex communication needs. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication David R. Beukelman, Pat Mirenda, 1998 This definitive textbook incorporates critical information on implementing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). It explains the principles and procedures of AAC assessment and offers intervention techniques that are appropriate throughout the life span of children and adults with congenital or acquired communication disorders. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication John McCarthy, Aimee Dietz, 2014-09-01 Augmentative and Alternative Communication: An Interactive Clinical Casebook is a multimedia educational tool, available both as a DVD and as an e-learning, web-based program, that presents 13 clinical stories written and narrated by augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) experts. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative & Alternative Communication Profile Tracy M. Kovach, 2009 Manual and forms for quality performance measures in speech-language therapy for children and as well as adults who do not have acquired communication disorders. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Assistive Communication with Children Lesley Mayne, Sharon Rogers, 2020-05-21 This practical resource is designed to help the families and professionals who support children who use augmentative and assistive communication (AAC) to interact with the world around them. The research-based Hear Me into Voice protocol, presented at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Annual Convention in 2018, the California Speech-Language Hearing Association Annual Convention in 2017, and the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication Conference in 2016, provides communication partners with a functional knowledge of the child’s communication skills and provides a practical intervention plan to carry forward. Through this protocol and intervention plan, communication partners can engage with the child’s personal voice, through their varying multimodal forms of communication; the child is given the space to grow into a competent and confident communicator. Key features include: Photocopiable and downloadable resources, including the Hear Me into Voice protocol, an AAC report shell template, an AAC report teaching template, and tools including how to make a communication wallet, and a Let’s Chat communication partner tip card template. Guidance for offering AAC intervention sessions, including an intervention plan supported by case studies Practical activities that can be used to engage children with complex communication profiles Engaging and easy to follow, this resource is not only essential for professionals and students looking to support children with complex language needs, but also families looking to understand their child’s unique communication style. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Multimodal Aac for Individuals with Down Syndrome Krista M. Wilkinson, Lizbeth H. Finestack, 2020-11-02 This volume examines the role of multimodal augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in supporting speech, language, and communication of individuals with Down syndrome, across the lifespan. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Adults with Aphasia: Science and Clinical Practice Rajinder Koul, 2012-11-02 Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Adults with Aphasia is a text written for practising clinicians, undergraduate and graduate students, assistive technologists and other stakeholders who are interested in learning more about the communication needs and options for people with aphasia. Although there are several book chapters dedicated to aphasia in currently available textbooks in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), this is the first book dedicated entirely to AAC and aphasia. The book aims to: Provide an overview of aphasia and various treatment approaches. Provide a comprehensive review of AAC intervention approaches for persons with aphasia. Evaluate the efficacy of AAC intervention approaches that use technology, such as speech generating devices, and non-technological AAC approaches as part of a treatment package. Examine the ways in which techniques and strategies can be applied to persons with aphasia. Better understand how both direct stakeholders (i.e., persons with aphasia) as well as indirect stakeholders (e.g., close and extended family members, friends, paid caregivers) feel about the effectiveness of AAC intervention in persons with aphasia. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative Communication Strategies for Adults with Acute Or Chronic Medical Conditions David R. Beukelman, Kathryn L. Garrett, Kathryn M. Yorkston, 2007 This practical guidebook and CD?ROM set gathers in one place everything professionals need to support and improve communication for adults with specific medical conditions. Includes expert guidance on providing effective AAC services for people with a ran |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Communication Alternatives in Autism Edlyn Vallejo Peña, 2019-09-20 Ten autistic self-advocates share their experiences with alternative forms of communication such as rapid prompting method (RPM) and facilitated communication (FC), both highly controversial. Their narratives document the complexities that autistic individuals navigate--in both educational and community settings--when choosing to use approaches that utilize letter boards and keyboards. While the controversies remain--RPM requires further scientific study, and FC is subject to criticism about confirmation bias--these individuals share powerful stories in the context of aiming for disability rights. The book concludes with a chapter about best practices for educators, particularly for schools and colleges that have students who use these communication methods. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Communicative Competence for Individuals who Use AAC Janice Catherine Light, David R. Beukelman, Joe Reichle, 2003 Relevant for children and adults at all stages of communication development, this work should be of use to rehabilitation professionals who work with AAC users. It covers linguistic competence, operational competence, social competence, and strategic competence. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: The Promise of Assistive Technology to Enhance Activity and Work Participation National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Health and Medicine Division, Board on Health Care Services, Committee on the Use of Selected Assistive Products and Technologies in Eliminating or Reducing the Effects of Impairments, 2017-09-01 The U.S. Census Bureau has reported that 56.7 million Americans had some type of disability in 2010, which represents 18.7 percent of the civilian noninstitutionalized population included in the 2010 Survey of Income and Program Participation. The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) provides disability benefits through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. As of December 2015, approximately 11 million individuals were SSDI beneficiaries, and about 8 million were SSI beneficiaries. SSA currently considers assistive devices in the nonmedical and medical areas of its program guidelines. During determinations of substantial gainful activity and income eligibility for SSI benefits, the reasonable cost of items, devices, or services applicants need to enable them to work with their impairment is subtracted from eligible earnings, even if those items or services are used for activities of daily living in addition to work. In addition, SSA considers assistive devices in its medical disability determination process and assessment of work capacity. The Promise of Assistive Technology to Enhance Activity and Work Participation provides an analysis of selected assistive products and technologies, including wheeled and seated mobility devices, upper-extremity prostheses, and products and technologies selected by the committee that pertain to hearing and to communication and speech in adults. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Exemplary Practices for Beginning Communicators Joe Reichle, David R. Beukelman, Janice Catherine Light, 2002 US, Canadian, and Irish specialists in augmentative and alternative communications (AAC) in a number of fields offer advice to practitioners on developing communication with people suffering from congenital disabilities for whom normal vocal speech is impossible or difficult. They emphasize the impo |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Altering Neurodevelopmental Disorders Wadhera, Tanu, Kakkar, Deepti, 2020-03-13 Disorder-assistive and neurotechnological devices are experiencing a boom in the global market. Mounting evidence suggests that approaches based on several different domains should move towards the goal of early diagnosis of individuals affected by neurodevelopmental disorders. Using an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach in diagnosis and support can resolve many hurdles such as lack of awareness, transport, and financial burdens by being made available to individuals at the onset of symptoms. Interdisciplinary Approaches to Altering Neurodevelopmental Disorders is a pivotal reference source that explores neurodevelopmental disorders and a diverse array of diagnostic tools and therapies assisted by neurotechnological devices. While covering a wide range of topics including individual-centered design, artificial intelligence, and multifaceted therapies, this book is ideally designed for neuroscientists, medical practitioners, clinical psychologists, special educators, counselors, therapists, researchers, academicians, and students. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication David R. Beukelman, Pat Mirenda, 1992 |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Functional Assessment of Communication Skills for Adults (ASHA FACS) Carol Frattali, 1995 The ASHA FACS is a measure of basic functional skills that are common to individuals regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status, education/vocational status, or cultural diversity. The measures provide helpful information in assisting both clinicians and payers. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication in Acute and Critical Care Settings Richard R. Hurtig, Deborah Downey, 2008-11-01 |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Augmentative and Alternative Communication Intervention Janet L. Dodd, 2017-06-30 Augmentative and Alternative Communication Intervention: An Intensive, Immersive, Socially Based Delivery Model is ideal for school-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and an excellent resource for interventionists (special education teachers, ABA therapists) and SLPs working in other settings who wish to develop an intensive, immersive Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)-based intervention through a three-phase intervention process: assessment, intervention planning, and intervention implementation. Written by an SLP who has worked in a public school setting and saw to the application of theory to practice, the text provides detailed information regarding working with children who have complex communication needs and the background knowledge necessary for successful implementation of the intervention approach. Included are considerations for vocabulary selection for the beginning communicator, how to create a symbolically rich environment, detailed intervention approaches, and progress monitoring strategies that establish appropriate, measurable goals. AAC will no longer be an alternative means of communication but a best practice means of teaching communication in the SLP's or interventionist's repertoire. Making the leap from the theoretical to the practical, this essential book: Describes the intervention needs of children with complex communication needs and the limitations of current approaches (e.g., PECS, Milieu Training, Functional Communication Training).Operationally defines the goal of AAC intervention, discussing its complexities, including the limitations of a pull-out model.Introduces the Intensive, Immersive, Socially Based Approach to Intervention and briefly describes each phase of the intervention process.Discusses how AAC assessments differ from traditional assessments of speech and language skills, as well as provides an overview of different assessment models and their contribution to the intervention process.Examines the importance of training support staff to key components of this intervention model.Contains information on the application of language-based intervention strategies to AAC.Talks about the importance of progress monitoring and how to use functional communication measures and communication sampling, a new and innovative technique developed by the author, to monitor progress.Provides example lesson plans and example goals addressing each area of communicative competence.*Disclaimer: Please note that ancillary content (such as documents, audio, and video, etc.) may not be included as published in the original print version of this book. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: AAC for All Mollie G. Mindel, Jeeva John, 2021-09-10 Within the field of speech language pathology, there is a growing awareness of the need to adapt our services to better serve a diverse population. AAC for All: Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Practices is designed to serve as a resource for practicing speech language pathologists and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) specialists working with culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) populations. Written in an easily accessible style, this text walks the clinician through the process of supporting this particular population and includes tips and resources for easy implementation. Unlike other books on AAC topics, this book directly focuses on the unique needs of CLD students with complex communication needs. By highlighting important considerations and practical steps rooted in evidence-based practice (EBP), this unique resource ensures the AAC provider is meeting the needs of all their students regardless of their backgrounds. The text encompasses every stage of supporting CLD students and their families along their communication journey, including the clinician’s preliminary steps of reflection upon the interplay of culture and language, and differences in attitudes towards disability and AAC. With this understanding, the authors guide the reader through practical, yet culturally responsive assessments and interventions strategies that can be adapted to meet the needs of any student who uses AAC. Key Features: * More than 50 illustrations and graphs to help clarify and expand on key concepts covered throughout the text; enabling readers to more easily understand and apply complex material. * Use of highly readable excerpts throughout the book in the form of Explorations of key terms, Perspectives & Insights describing real life professional experiences from the authors, and TIPS (To Implement Proper Strategies) to guide the reader through practical intervention recommendations. * A clinician-friendly writing style that will have this book repeatedly reached for as it guides the reader through their learning and clinical practice. Disclaimer: Please note that ancillary content (such as documents, audio, and video, etc.) may not be included as published in the original print version of this book. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Gaze Interaction and Applications of Eye Tracking: Advances in Assistive Technologies Majaranta, Päivi, 2011-10-31 Recent advances in eye tracking technology will allow for a proliferation of new applications. Improvements in interactive methods using eye movement and gaze control could result in faster and more efficient human computer interfaces, benefitting users with and without disabilities. Gaze Interaction and Applications of Eye Tracking: Advances in Assistive Technologies focuses on interactive communication and control tools based on gaze tracking, including eye typing, computer control, and gaming, with special attention to assistive technologies. For researchers and practitioners interested in the applied use of gaze tracking, the book offers instructions for building a basic eye tracker from off-the-shelf components, gives practical hints on building interactive applications, presents smooth and efficient interaction techniques, and summarizes the results of effective research on cutting edge gaze interaction applications. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Communication Without Speech Anne Warrick, International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 1998 |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Dementia Ellen Hickey, Michelle S. Bourgeois, 2011-02-14 Dementia: From Diagnosis to Management - A Functional Approach is a comprehensive description of a functional and behavioral approach to assessing and treating persons with dementia. While very practical, the information is embedded in a scientific context of the causes, neuropsychological manifestations, and complications of dementia. The management of the impairments of dementia is centered on its functional consequences and impact on daily living. The chapters describe behavioral interventions and environmental strategies that aim to improve daily activities and quality of life from a proactive communication and memory basis. Specific suggestions are provided to enhance family involvement and staff relationships, interdisciplinary cooperation, reimbursement, and documentation across various home and institutional settings. The book is written in a straightforward style and is evenhanded in its critical analyses of the evidence available to inform practice. The extensive clinical backgrounds of the authors allow them to use ‘real world’ case studies to illustrate common challenges of persons with dementia and potential solutions for caregivers. Further resources and clinical materials are included in comprehensive appendices. The volume provides essential reading for clinicians and administrators who seek to improve the lives of people with dementia and those who care for them. It is also an invaluable reference for beginning students in adult language disorders and gerontology. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Fast Facts: Dementia and Augmentative and Alternative Communication J. Murray, S. Dada, A. May, 2022-08-08 The purpose of this book is to offer medical, health, and social care professionals who work in acute, medical, long-term, or community care settings insights into the impact of dementia on an individual’s communication interactions and how augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies could enhance these interactions. The first half of the text sets the scene for understanding the nature of dementia and its impact particularly on an individual’s social and emotional life and their language and communication; the second half introduces AAC and what it offers as a set of techniques to support and maintain conversational autonomy in those living with dementia. Table of Contents: • Section 1: The nature and impact of dementia • A description of dementia • Social and emotional impact of dementia • Language and cognitive-communication assessment and approaches to intervention • Section 2: Interventions mediated through augmentative and alternative communication • Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) • Developing AAC interventions: A participatory assessment and intervention process • Communication partner AAC training and support • What everyone should know about dementia, AAC, and conversational partner training |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Underestimated J. B. Handley, Jamison Handley, 2021-03-23 The incredibly moving and inspiring story about a quest to finally be heard. In Underestimated: An Autism Miracle, Generation Rescue’s cofounder J.B. Handley and his teenage son Jamison tell the remarkable story of Jamison’s journey to find a method of communication that allowed him to show the world that he was a brilliant, wise, generous, and complex individual who had been misunderstood and underestimated by everyone in his life. Jamison’s emergence at the age of seventeen from his self-described “prison of silence” took place over a profoundly emotional and dramatic twelve-month period that is retold from his father’s perspective. The book reads like a spy thriller while allowing the reader to share in the complex emotions of both exhilaration and anguish that accompany Jamison’s journey for him and his family. Once Jamison’s extraordinary story has been told, Jamison takes over the narrative to share the story from his perspective, allowing the world to hear from someone who many had dismissed and cast aside as incapable. Jamison’s remarkable transformation challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding autism, a disability impacting 1 in 36 Americans. Many scientists still consider nonspeakers with autism—a full 40 percent of those on the autism spectrum—to be “mentally retarded.” Is it possible that the experts are wrong about several million people? Are all the nonspeakers like Jamison? Underestimated: An Autism Miracle will touch your heart, inspire you, remind you of the power of love, and ultimately leave you asking tough questions about how many more Jamisons might be waiting for their chance to be freed from their prison of silence, too. And, for the millions of parents of children with autism, the book offers a detailed description of a communication method that may give millions of people with autism back their voice. |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: Language Steps Amanda Armstrong, 2000-02-01 |
| aac augmentative and alternative communication: How Stella Learned to Talk Christina Hunger, 2021-06-24 'A wonderful book.' - Temple Grandin, author of Animals in Translation Understand what your canine best friend is thinking with this New York Times bestselling handbook. An incredible, revolutionary true story and surprisingly simple guide to teaching your dog to 'talk' from speech-language pathologist Christina Hunger, who has taught her dog, Stella, to communicate using simple paw-sized buttons associated with different words. How Stella Learned to Talk is part memoir and part how-to guide. It chronicles the journey Christina and Stella have taken together, from the day they met, to the day Stella 'spoke' her first word, and the other breakthroughs they've had since. It also reveals the techniques Christina used to teach Stella, broken down into simple stages and actionable steps any dog owner can use to start communicating with their best four-legged friend. Filled with conversations that Stella and Christina have had, as well as the attention to developmental detail that only a speech-language pathologist could know, How Stella Learned to Talk is the indispensable dog book for you and your puppy pal. |
SBC AAC有什么区别？ - 知乎
AAC是杜比实验室为音乐社区提供的技术，是一种高压缩比的编码算法。实际体验上都认为同样的码率下面，AAC的听感比MP3好，Apple上面AAC的音频很多。所以现在的iPhone的音频传输格式也都是AAC格 …
既然 AAC 要比 MP3 好，且体积差不多，为什么网上不流行 AAC 格 …
2、aac呢？强有力的支持aac的，目前最多可以认为是苹果公司，itune基本上能采用aac的都用了aac，但是他们同样也支持mp3.而其他的aac发明团队成员，包括sony等都在市场上说话分量有限。 3、兼容性，mp3赶上了 …
AAC 格式和 M4A 格式是什么？各自的优缺点有哪些？ - 知乎
现在的 aac-lc 就是以前制定的 mpeg-2 时代的 aac 的更名延续，而 mpeg-4 时代的 aac 叫 aac-he. aac-lc 可以用 aac (adts) 作容器也可以用 mp4 做容器，两者可以用 mp4box 的一个命令直接转换，而 aac-he 只能用 …
普通人耳能分辨出蓝牙协议SBC和AAC的区别吗？ - 知乎
aac有着不错的音质表现。一般来说，同样的码率下，aac的听感会好于mp3。apple上面acc的音频很多，所以苹果设备基本都采用这个编码格式。 当蓝牙支持aac格式的文件，手机也支持aac传输时，音质比sbc好很多，普 …
LDAC和AAC听上去的差别大不大？ - 知乎
Feb 7, 2020 · 是因为aac删掉了注意不到的细节，把腾出的码率 放到主体上。 这里的细节不是单指高频，而是覆盖整个频段。删掉细节也不绝对是坏的。 aac听起来可能会比较"优美"。 如果你喜欢高频细节，不要选aac. 如 …
SBC AAC有什么区别？ - 知乎
AAC是杜比实验室为音乐社区提供的技术，是一种高压缩比的编码算法。实际体验上都认为同样的码率下面，AAC的听感比MP3好，Apple上面AAC的音频很多。所以现在的iPhone的音频传输 …
既然 AAC 要比 MP3 好，且体积差不多，为什么网上不流行 AAC
2、aac呢？强有力的支持aac的，目前最多可以认为是苹果公司，itune基本上能采用aac的都用了aac，但是他们同样也支持mp3.而其他的aac发明团队成员，包括sony等都在市场上说话分量 …
AAC 格式和 M4A 格式是什么？各自的优缺点有哪些？ - 知乎
现在的 aac-lc 就是以前制定的 mpeg-2 时代的 aac 的更名延续，而 mpeg-4 时代的 aac 叫 aac-he. aac-lc 可以用 aac (adts) 作容器也可以用 mp4 做容器，两者可以用 mp4box 的一个命令直接转 …
普通人耳能分辨出蓝牙协议SBC和AAC的区别吗？ - 知乎
aac有着不错的音质表现。一般来说，同样的码率下，aac的听感会好于mp3。apple上面acc的音频很多，所以苹果设备基本都采用这个编码格式。 当蓝牙支持aac格式的文件，手机也支持aac …
LDAC和AAC听上去的差别大不大？ - 知乎
Feb 7, 2020 · 是因为aac删掉了注意不到的细节，把腾出的码率 放到主体上。 这里的细节不是单指高频，而是覆盖整个频段。删掉细节也不绝对是坏的。 aac听起来可能会比较"优美"。 如果你 …
既然 AAC 要比 MP3 好，且体积差不多，为什么网上不流行 AAC
AAC (Advanced Audio Coding): AAC 是 MPEG-2 标准中的一种音频压缩格式，它在相同比特率下提供比 MP3 更好的音质。 这意味着，使用 AAC 格式，可以在更小的文件体积下获得与 MP3 …
AAC-LC 是什么格式？和 AAC 有什么区别？ - 知乎
aac的版权和专利许可仅针对商业目的aac编解码器的厂商和开发者，所以ffmpeg和faac等包含aac编解码器软件以开源的形式发布。 aac的版权许可为5年一期，期满重新评估后可以继续5 …
iPhone 蓝牙连接耳机，音乐怎么开启AAC提高音质? - 知乎
iPhone无法手动开启，而且并非耳机支持aac，iphone就会使用 aac协议 ，只有当iphone的aac数据库中这个耳机的蓝牙芯片识别码时才会启用aac协议，其他时候都是sbc，而且苹果自家的 …
AAC音频解码器的选择，MFT、FDKAAC、FFMPEG？ - 知乎
May 10, 2023 · 当然，如果是编码，不同编码器相差得可就多了，目前质量最高的是FDK-AAC，可以在使用FFmpeg的时候，手动调用它的第三方编码库。 发布于 2023-05-11 00:14 赞同 2 添 …
为什么 iPhone音频只能支持aac 买个其他家蓝牙耳机（索尼）还体 …
可能苹果认为aac已经够用，其他都不够好用。 "AAC主要会根据 心理声学模型 来修改/优化你听到的声音" 听起来不会比320Kb .MP3差 高通拿aptX变着法子收专利费，苹果是不可能交的，这 …
