Students that suffer from speech and language impairments may find some relief in Augmentative and Alternative Communication systems (AAC). In short, AAC is a combination of communication tools, varying from simple gestures to specific methods and devices. The goal of AAC devices is to help students communicate their needs, wants, ideas, and thoughts with others.
Examples of AAC systems:
Unaided communication systems [no tech]
Relies on user's body to communicate and convey messages (gestures, body language, sign language)
Aided communication systems [low to high tech]
Relies on tools in addition to the user's body (text-to-speech programs, communication boards, necklace photos, touchscreens, props, eye-gazing objects, symbols)
The type of AAC system used is determined by the student's physical, cognitive, sensory, and receptive communication skills. For example, a necklace photo is a simple aid for children who are nonverbal or with auditory issues that places pictures that are symbols of certain tasks the student is expected to perform around their neck. The photos can depict things like going to the bathroom, washing their hands, recess time, lunch time, reading time, etc. The student can either show others a certain photo to communicate their needs, or the teacher can show the student which task is ready to complete.
For further information regarding AAC systems, feel free to visit the following links:
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication
AAC Institute
Tufftalker Convertible
SpringBoard Lite
Boardmaker Plus!
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