AAC Tools

Once a student has been established as needing an augmented or alternative communication plan, the next step is trying to find a way that is comfortable for the student to communicate and also for them to thrive in their educational goals. For some this could be sign language, for some the use of a PECS board. 

For others the technology will need to be a little more advanced. So what else is out there?

A speech generating device could be used with either a keyboard or images on buttons that the students can communicate with. This is especially helpful for students that understand things visually, as many special needs students do. When text is entered or the picture is pushed a voice comes out and says the words. 

This has also evolved into the technology that we have become so familiar with in the form of apps on touch screen phones or tablets. Such apps could include “Pic-A-Word”, “AutoVerbal Pro Talking Soundboard” and “Speak for Yourself”. These programs help students become more independent and take charge of their wants, needs and opinions.

Deciding if a student needs AAC

As the world is changing and adapting to all sorts of new technologies we are suddenly finding that there are ways to better the lives of the children in our schools through assistive technologies. One of the needs that students may end up having is being able to hear or communicate in the classroom. So how do we know when a student requires more support in their communication skills? When do we make an augmented or alternative communication plan? 

Any time that a student is unable to make their needs clear through spoken communication, the student could need AAC. In addition to students who cannot vocalize their wants or needs, this would include students that cannot hear instructions or other social interactions. If the basic form of communication is hindered, it is time to start looking into AAC devices for assistance. 

There are a series of assessments that can be done to reach the conclusion that a student is going to require assistance in communicating. The step by step process of augmented and alternative communication plans can be outlined in the following hand out. There are also several resources for assessments, funding and devices: 

http://www.txsha.org/_pdf/Convention/2011Convention/2011SpeakerHandouts/McAughan,%20Margaret%20-%20Evaluating%20for%20Augmentative%20Alternative%20Communication_The%20Decision%20Making%20Process.pdf