Augmentative and Alternative Communication

For class tonight we had the opportunity to research and examine AAC. I will be posting responses to various questions on the topic.
What is communication?
Communication:  The transfer of information or ideas from one individual or another using verbal communication (spoken face to face), non-verbal communication (gestures), written communication (letters), visualization (images).



20 different ways to communicate

1.non-verbal cues
2.verbally
3.sign language
4. braille
5.text message
6. instant messaging
7. tone      
8. actions       
9. touch
10. written communication
11. drawing
12. eye contact
13. pictures
14. graphs
15. video message
16. acting
17. e-mail
18. songs
19. gestures
20. morse code

                                         


What is AAC?

The term AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) covers a huge range of techniques which support or replace spoken communication. These include gesture, signing, symbols, word boards, communication boards and books, as well as Voice Output Communication Aids (VOCAs).

Who is the typical user of AAC?

At first I thought it would be people with severe communication disorders (either from birth or that have occured later in life due to injury or disease) or who cannot speak, however Barbara mentioned in class, that there is no typical user of AAC and that it can be very broad. Therefore, there is no typical user of AAC.

 

What are the 3 criteria for Effective Communication?

    1. You need to have a communication partner.
    2. There needs to be joint attention between the partners involved in communicating.
   3. In order for all partners to be able to comprehend the communication, a common language is
       essential.
 

 

10 different types of AAC available

The following are a list of various AAC devices available. They range from low to high tech.

 

 Vantage Lite

This is an ACC device that is used for those who have difficulty communicating. It is a high tech device.

 

 Communication Board

A communication board is another device used for those who have verbal communication issues and is a low tech device that allows them to use the photos to communicate their needs and wants.

 

Big and Little Mack

 The  Big and Little Mack are simple, easy to use devices that allow for voice output for those with communication issues. It is easy to record and change messages and can also be connected to a toy for a reinforcer.

 

 Personal Talker

The Personal Talker could be a great introduction to AAC as it records a single, 10 second message that is played back easily by hitting the large play button. It would be used for those with communication difficulties.

Proloquo2Go- as we discussed in class, this is a wonderful,  engaging, fairly inexpensive app high tech app that allows users with verbal communication problems to communicate with a basic word or can even form sentences for a conversation. It also has a text-to-speech feature.

Tech/Speak-this low tech device gives users a speech playback and is able to record several messages. This would be useful for individuals who are non-verbal or have difficulty communicating.

 
I Can Speak-this is a high tech device that allows users with verbal communication difficulties the opportunity to communicate by pressing the buttons on the device to communicate a word or phrase they wish to convey.


MACAW- this medium tech device allows those with functional speech difficulties or spelling difficulties to tap on the images and have a message or word relayed. It holds up to 32 messages and multiple images can be selected to form sentences.

 

 Talk Trac-is a portable communication device that resembles a wrist watch. It can hold up to 8 messages and has a lengthly recording time. It can aid Autistic students in social situations as well as aid those with speech difficulties.

Partner Plus-this low tech device is comprised of 4 sections with 8 messages. It is a basic device that can convey simple messages.