Understanding Augmentative and Alternative Communication
I. Step into the World of AAC
A. A Glimpse Into the AAC Universe
B. Decoding AAC: The Basics
C. What’s In Store for You in This Article
II. AAC: Changing Lives One Word at a Time
A. How AAC Works Its Magic: Life-Changing Stories
B. The Diverse Faces of AAC Users
III. Cracking the Code: Demystifying AAC Systems
A. Gestures, Body Language and More: Unaided AAC
B. Picture Boards, Apps, Devices: The Aided AAC Arsenal
IV. Mastering the Art of Choosing the Right AAC Device
A. Low-Tech vs. High-Tech: The AAC Spectrum
B. Your Guide to Selecting the Perfect AAC Device
V. Navigating Your AAC Journey: How Speech-Language Pathologists Can Help
A. The AAC Champions: Role of Speech-Language Pathologists
B. Your AAC Roadmap: The Evaluation Process
C. Triumph Over Silence: Success Stories
VI. Overcoming Obstacles: Conquering AAC Challenges
A. Common Hurdles on the AAC Pathway
B. Your AAC Survival Kit: Strategies and Tips
VII. Exploring the Future: Exciting Developments in AAC
A. On the Horizon: Latest Trends and Tech in AAC
B. A Peek Into Tomorrow: Predicting AAC’s Future
VIII. Putting It All Together: Your Next Steps in the AAC Adventure
A. The AAC Journey Recap
B. Your Call to Explore: The AAC Invitation
C. Take Action: Engaging with the AAC Community and Beyond
For more information on Augmentative and Alternative Communication check out these online resources
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association – ASHA has a wealth of resources related to AAC, including professional guidelines, research, and links to other resources. They also have an informative section dedicated to AAC.
The International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication – ISAAC works to improve the lives of children and adults who use AAC. Their site contains a variety of resources including research, stories, and events related to AAC.
AAC Institute – This is a not-for-profit charitable organization dedicated to the most effective communication for individuals who rely on AAC. Their site offers resources including self-study courses, webcasts, and a variety of AAC tools.
PrAACtical AAC – PrAACtical AAC supports a community of professionals and families who are determined to improve the communication and literacy abilities of people with significant communication difficulties. It was founded in 2011 by two SLP professors, Carole Zangari and the late Robin Parker, around a shared passion for AAC.
The Center for AAC & Autism – The Center is dedicated to building awareness of the power of AAC to change the lives of children with autism and other developmental disabilities, who are challenged by limited spontaneous communication skills.
AssistiveWare – AssistiveWare is a leading innovator of AAC software and has been making a difference in the lives of people with communication difficulties for over 15 years. The website provides an abundance of resources related to AAC including webinars, blog posts, and user stories.
Communication Matters – Communication Matters is a UK-based organization which is committed to supporting people who find communication difficult because they have little or no clear speech. The website offers resources for people who use AAC, their families, and the professionals who support them.
AAC-RERC (Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Augmentative and Alternative Communication) – AAC-RERC conducts a comprehensive program of research, development, training, and dissemination activities that address the NIDRR priorities and seek to improve technologies for individuals who rely on AAC.
Closing The Gap – An organization that focuses on computer technology for people with special needs through its bi-monthly newspaper, annual international conference, and extensive website.
Call Scotland – Based at the University of Edinburgh, Call Scotland provides resources and research on AAC.
Speak For Yourself – An AAC speech app that was created by speech-language pathologists. The website provides information on the app and resources for using it.
The National Joint Committee for the Communication Needs of Persons With Severe Disabilities (NJC) – This organization offers guidelines and resources for those with severe communication disabilities, including those who use AAC.
United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (USSAAC) – USSAAC is the United States’ chapter of ISAAC, dedicated to supporting the needs and rights of AAC users.
The ACE Centre – A UK-based organization that offers a range of services to support communication and learning through the use of AAC and Assistive Technology.
AAC Community – An online resource for individuals who use AAC, their family members, and professionals. The website provides relevant articles, strategies, and event listings.
AbilityNet – A UK charity that helps people of any age and with any disability to use technology to achieve their goals. They provide a host of free resources on their website.
TechOWL – A part of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, TechOWL shares information about AAC and Assistive Technology, including device borrowing and a lending library.