Augmentative and Alternative Communication
By Sofia Gruppuso
Augmentative and alternative communication, otherwise known as AAC, is defined as supplemental and/or alternative means of communication that can be used in the absence of spoken language. “Augmentative” refers to adding to or supplementing one’s speech, whereas “alternative” refers to providing an alternative means of communication to be used in place of spoken language. There are various forms of AAC which can be beneficial for children with speech-language impairments that make verbal communication challenging.
AAC encompasses various communication methods which include the use of varying degrees of technology. AAC can be divided into three main categories: no-tech, low-tech and high-tech AAC.
No-Tech AAC
No-tech AAC includes alternative forms of communication that do not require the use of any external equipment or technological devices. Gestural communication falls under this branch of AAC, which involves the use of gestures to communicate wants and needs, such as pointing and reaching. The use of manual sign language also falls under the branch of no-tech AAC. Manual sign language uses the visual-manual modality to communicate meaning, in place of spoken words. Manual signs involve the use of the hands/limbs to execute gestures that represent words and their meanings. These no-tech options simply require the child and their body to provide a means of communication!
Low-Tech AAC
Low-tech AAC includes alternative forms of communication that require materials/equipment which are less technologically complex. Communication boards (pictured below) are a form of low-tech AAC. Communication boards contain a variety of symbols/pictures that represent words or phrases, which the child can point to for a variety of communicative functions, such as requesting, commenting, and greeting. Communication boards are easy to transport and can be personalized to each child depending on their needs, wants and interests. Another form of low-tech AAC are communication switches. Communication switches are battery-operated devices that record and play words or phrases upon the push of the button. Any words/phrases can be recorded based on the child’s needs (e.g., “more, “all-done,” “eat”). One last form of low-tech AAC is the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). PECS is an AAC system which involves the physical exchange of symbols/pictures to communicate with another person. This method is often useful for requesting, as well as commenting.
High-Tech AAC
High-tech AAC involves the use of devices which are more technologically complex, such as iPads or tablets. Speech-generating devices (pictured below) are defined as electronic devices that allow individuals to communicate through electronic voice generation. These devices contain various icons or symbols, which produce the represented word or phrase via an electronic voice upon selection. While these devices may be more complicated to learn due to the more complex technology, they provide a large selection of words and phrases that can be used for a variety of communicative functions. Furthermore, there are various programs and softwares that can be utilized based on each child’s individual needs. An AAC evaluation allows a qualified speech-language pathologist to determine which form of AAC, as well as which specific program or software, is best suited for a specific child.
All AAC
A common concern among caregivers regarding the use of AAC is that it will lessen the chance for or lead to a decline in spoken language. Research has fortunately revealed that this is not the case and that AAC provides a wide variety of benefits to increase an individual’s ability to functionally communicate. Studies have even shown increases in verbal communication upon the implementation of AAC in therapy!
Overall, AAC encompasses a wide variety of methods that can be extremely useful for people of various ages with various needs where verbal communication is a challenge. AAC can be a fantastic way to provide speech-language impaired children with an alternative means for functional communication to increase their adaptability and overall quality of life. If you are interested in learning more about the various forms of AAC and how they are utilized in speech-language therapy, feel free to contact The Speech Studio! You can do so by calling our office, checking out our website or visiting our Facebook/Instagram pages.
