AAC
What does AAC stand for?
Augumentative Alternative Communication
What is DIRECT SELECTION?
What is : the user independently points directly to elements of the message via: finger/ headstick/ matchstick/ light pointer/ eye gaze
Describe a physical prompt in AAC
Hand-over-Hand/physical nudge
AAC slows down/hinders oral speech development
What is False
It supports.
Describe the ideal AAC modality for:
James a non verbal 5 year old PRE-literate boy. He benefits from tactile objects, TOBIs & Photographs. His interests revolve around cause and effect toys. He is highly sensitive to loud sounds (wears noise canceling headphones). He benefits from familiar routines, minimal distractions and clear choices presented in a limited field.
What is a LOW TECH/ STATIC AAC modality using miniatures, TOBIs, Photographs in a small/limited visual field
Unaided AAC
What is does not need additional tools
-gestures/ facial expressions / vocalizations
Who benefits from AAC?
What is : ANYONE, EVERYONE, ANY AGE, ANY DISABILITY
Describe modeling prompt in AAC
showing how to use AAC system, or request, comment for something using their AAC system
AAC is for anyone with challenges in oral speech.
True
AAC can be used in addition to oral speech.
Describe the ideal AAC modality for:
Amber, a 75 year old stroke survivor who is slowly regaining her verbal language. Her cognitive ability has remained intact, as a result Amber is able to comment on her preferred therapy strategies. She is highly against implementing any type of technology into her therapy/ life.
What is a Dynamic - Low Tech Communication system (Category based flip book)
Aided AAC
What is Requires additional tools
-communication book/ static device/ dynamic device
Where do you use AAC?
What is : Across all settings where communication takes place
Describe verbal prompt in AAC
Asking, "Do you need help?" or saying, "it looks like you need help." OR just saying "push the help button"
People with cognitive impairments cannot use AAC
What is False
People with a variety of Intellectual abilities can use AAC
Describe the ideal AAC modality for:
Camila, a 10 year old 5th grade child diagnosed with selective mutism (a complex and severe anxiety disorder) at the age of 5. Camila will communicate with a small circle of familiar people whom she feels comfortable with (mom, dad and SLP). In school, Camila is yet to verbally communicate with teachers or peers and has resorted to written responses. Academically, she is on grade level and thriving. Camila has voiced to her mother about feeling excluded in school, she would like to develop and foster friendships however finds it extremely difficult
What is a HIGH TECH - DYNAMIC DISPLAY AAC
A low tech AAC example...
What is Picture board, Alphabet board, PECS, Low tech static device (GoTalk, QuickTalker, BIgMac)
When do you use AAC?
What is : Any time or every time the individual needs/ wants to communicate
Describe 'wait' strategy in AAC
wait before prompting to avoid over prompting, provide enough wait time to process and navigate AAC system, respecting their communication rights
Success with AAC is dependent on prerequisite criteria such as literacy, ability to maintain attention for long periods of time and social status.
What is FALSE, NO Pre-Requisite skills/ criteria are needed to begin using an AAC modality.
Describe the ideal AAC modality for:
Zahir, is an 8 year old student in an ICT classroom. He is a verbal and highly social communicator. Zahir has integrated well into his classroom and has created friendships with his peers. He is able to access the curriculum, however struggles with transitions. Zahir relies on consistent routines and becomes flustered when changes are made.
What Is : A Visual Schedule
A high tech AAC example....
What is: Dynamic Display Communication Device (TouchChat app ,Proloquo app, LAMP app, CoughDrop app)
SCANNING/ INDIRECT SELECTION?
What is: A method of INDIRECT SELECTION, that allows the user to choose a desired item from a series of options when presented sequentially. Scanning can be done by a communication partner OR device.
Describe communication functions.
Commenting, requesting, protesting, expressing feelings, asking, getting attention, labeling, social exchanges, describing, etc.
Behavioral issues need to be addressed before AAC can be effective
What is : False
If lack of ability to communicate is the cause of behavior issues, AAC can help
Describe the ideal AAC modality for :
Sammie, a 14 month old toddler who otherwise is reaching developmental milestones on time. Parents are concerned with her expressive language as she has only produced 3 words : mama, dada, and bobo. Sammie will respond to her name, follow simple single step commands and play with toys in a functional manner.
What is Total Communication modality:
In this case: No tech & low tech AAC
single signs/ gestures/ pictures/ communication boards/ vocalization/ head nodding/shaking, low tech static buttons