AAC can take many forms, which causes more confusion to those who have little to no experience with augmentative communication systems. Systems can be low tech, mid tech, or high tech. Low tech systems include: picture symbols, communication boards/books, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), a choice board, switches, American Sign Language, and play skill mats. Mid tech systems include: multiple switches and a variety of voice generating devises containing 1 or more cells with a static (unchanging) board that may have a few levels (different boards that manually need to be changed). High tech systems include: voice out put devises that have dynamic (changing) displays and use some structure that organizes words into concept categories. This enables the individual to access an endless number of words. The high tech devise can be an iPad app or a dedicated devise (meaning its only function is to be used for communication).
There are many myths about using AAC with young children. Parents and staff have fears. Here is a great blog post to help clarify and debunk myths. It is written by another SLP named Carrie Clark. Another great link is http://aac.unl.edu/yaack/b2.html Below are some additional resources for those of you who want to know more. | |
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