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Example of Aided High Tech Non-Dedicated AAC ✨

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Example of Aided High Tech Non-Dedicated AAC ✨

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We all remember that iconic episode of Victorious where Cat Valentine (Ariana Grande) wasn’t allowed to talk. Yes that very same episode that gave us her iconic “They didn’t say I couldn’t sing”

Well Cat was actually using a text to speech app which is an example of an aided, high tech, non dedicated AAC device.

Of course if you’re placed on vocal rest by your primary care physician or speech therapist, DO NOT FOLLOW HER LEAD.

There’s no benefits to being a dangerous woman when it comes to your vocal fold health. 😉

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Cat Has to Talk through an App - iParty with Victorious (500 Subs Special) | Clip

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So the textbook definition is “individuals who cannot meet their daily communication needs through speech alone and could benefit from AAC.”

But let’s be honest, that leaves us with a lot of questions. So here’s my definition, the Kyra definition!

Okay so—having complex communication needs doesn’t always mean you can’t talk. Sometimes, you can speak, but:

Your speech is hard to understand (like only mom gets you), it breaks down when you’re tired, anxious, or overwhelmed, you can’t get your full thoughts out fast enough with just words or maybe speech is fine sometimes, but not in every setting.

So even though you can talk, AAC helps your speech go further. It’s like a backup for your voice—amplifies it, supports it, and fills in the gaps when needed.

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Communication systems that require external tools, from low-tech (e.g. boards) to mid tech (eg. Go-Talk) high-tech (e.g. iPads).

Example: Using a GoTalk device or communication app.

Let’s break this down further!

Low-Tech AAC

Definition: Simple tools with no electronics—like paper-based systems or boards.

Example: A printed alphabet board used to spell words.

Mid-Tech AAC

Definition: Basic electronic AAC tools with limited memory/output. Basically devices that use batteries.

Example: A BigMackbutton programmed to say “I’m thirsty.”

High-Tech AAC

Definition: Advanced devices or apps that generate speech with dynamic display and multiple functions.

Example: Proloquo2Go or Grid for iPad.

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Communication strategies that rely solely on the body.

Example: A person signing “more” during snack time.

Makaton or SASL sign image

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Dedicated AAC

Built to talk. That’s it.

These devices are made specifically for AAC—nothing else. No games, no insta, no distractions.

Secure, reliable, focused.

Think Steven Hawking.

Non-Dedicated AAC

Think- Can talk AND scroll TikTok!

Mainstream tech that runs AAC apps alongside other stuff.

Affordable, familiar, customizable.

Great for teens or temporary AAC needs.

Example: iPad with Proloquo2Go

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An unaided AAC method using intentional eye blinks to signal yes/no or spell messages.

Example: One blink = “yes,” two = “no”

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Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

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Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

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A field of clinical practice and research that supports individuals with speech-language impairments through tools and strategies to augment or replace spoken/written language.

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Specific vocabulary relevant to personal interests, contexts, or activities.

Example: imagine DJ Khalid not being able to say DJ Khalid anymore… wild thought isn’t it.

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DO YOU UNDERSTAND THE WORDS THAT ARE COMING OUT OF MY MOUTH?

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DO YOU UNDERSTAND THE WORDS THAT ARE COMING OUT OF MY MOUTH?

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Maybe all this time Chris Tucker’s character in Rush Hour had a speech impairment that created a complex communication need that actually would have required him to use an AAC device?

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Do you understand the words coming out of my mouth?

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High-frequency, general words that make up most daily communication.

Example: Want, go, stop, help

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Partner demonstrates how to use AAC while speaking, to teach communication.

Example: A teacher points to “eat” while saying “Let’s eat.”

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Welcome to Kyra’s AAC KEY TERMINOLOGY CORNER 🧚🏻‍♀️

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Welcome to Kyra’s AAC KEY TERMINOLOGY CORNER 🧚🏻‍♀️

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Sit down, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to learn more about AAC! 💕

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Symbols stay in one place on the board/screen. Doesn’t change when used.

Example: A fixed PECS board

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The screen changes as you select items—new pages open up.

Example: Tap “food” → see choices like “snack,” “lunch,” “fruit”

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Dynamic Display AAC Systems on a Computer