What is Alternate and Augmentative Communication (AAC)?
Alternate and Augmentative Communication (AAC) products range from low tech picture communication symbols to high tech electronic speech output devices and computer-based communication systems . AAC products can be used as a substitute for oral speech or as an aide for clarifying or augmenting speech that is partially intelligible. Electronic devices come in two basic types, those that store digitized (recorded) speech and those that produce synthesized (computer generated) speech. Following is a comparison of the strengths and weaknesses of each type.
The MessageMate from Words+ is a portable and simple-to-use device with digitized speech output.
The Liberator from Prentke-Romich is a high-end device for sophisticated AAC users.
Comparison of digitized and synthesized speech output
| Features
| Digitized Speech Output
| Synthesized Speech Output
|
|---|
| Ease of programming | Usually as easy as recording with a traditional tape recorder | Ranges from moderately complicated to very complicated |
| Clarity of speech output | As easily understood as any tape recorded human voice | Not as easily understood by an unfamiliar listener |
| Vocabulary capacity | Limited message storage capacity | Tremendous vocabulary capacity |
| Capability for spontaneous conversation | Very limited capability for spontaneous conversation | Good programming and a competent user can yield adequate capability for spontaneous conversation |
| User independence | User usually depends on an assistant to record messages as needed | Users who have learned to program their AAC device can be fairly independent in their use of the device |
How Are AAC Devices Used in the School Setting?
Augmentative communication is used in every educational setting. Wherever face-to-face communication occurs, an AAC user should be enabled to use his/her augmentative system. Oftentimes, an AAC user's system will consist of more that one component because one product may not be appropriate to every environment. For example, whereas an electronic device might be used in the classroom it would not be suitable in the swimming pool! A logical choice for the pool would be a picture based communication board (preferably laminated in plastic).
Whenever the need for communication can be anticipated, AAC devices should be preprogrammed with specific messages or with the vocabulary necessary for building messages appropriate to each situation. Likewise, communication boards can be compiled into a "library" of pages with each page designed for a particular activity or setting. Following are some examples of common school activities where AAC devices can be easily used with pre-designed messages or vocabulary.
Jessica is using an AlphaTalker from Prentke-Romich
- Circletime
- Roll call
- Reporting absences to the attendance office
- Presenting oral reports
- Reciting poetry
- Leading the Pledge of Allegiance
- Show and Tell
- Reading the lunch menu
- Ordering lunch in the cafeteria
- Playing games
- Reporting on weekend or after school activities
- Commenting on school or community events
Where Can I Obtain More Information about AAC Devices?
Links to Vendors
Links to Other Resources
