Assistive Technology for AAC by

This article breaks down what AAC is and how it can be utilized.

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 19:38:01 UTC

This article details many different types of AAC and how they can be used by a wide range of individuals.

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 20:58:37 UTC

Eye Gaze Devices

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 21:11:49 UTC

One kind of AAC device that is utilized by many individuals is an eye gaze device. Eye gaze devices allow users to communicate without using any bodily movement other than their eyes. This type of AAC is commonly used by individuals with Cerebral Palsy, ALS, or Multiple Sclerosis. There are many different versions of eye gaze technology and each has its own specific functions. The website linked above discusses an AAC device called the Eyegaze Edge and the different functions and capabilities that this device has.

AAC Apps

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 21:20:12 UTC

Another important type of AAC are the many AAC apps on mobile devices that help people communicate. Many of these apps utilize symbols or pictures that individuals can press to communicate with others. Some apps, like Proloquo2Go have over 25,000 symbols to choose from and even provide the option to use personal pictures as symbols. These apps largely do not have any limits to language as they have a vocabulary of over 10,000 words with the option to add your own words as well. These apps are extremely important in helping many individuals communicate effectively. Individuals with Down syndrome, autism, or largely anyone who has speech difficulties can utilize these apps to help them communicate. The link above is an informational overview on Proloquo2Go that lists a number of highlights and features of the program itself.

Child using AAC

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 21:22:08 UTC

This image demonstrates a type of application where the individual can manipulate letters on a screen to communicate. This image shows an adult guiding the child to specific letters to help learn the foundations of using a communicative device.

GoTalk20

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 21:32:02 UTC

The image above is a communication device called a GoTalk 20. This device has about 20 different symbols that can be used for communication with 5 specific symbols at the top that are used most frequently. This type of AAC is not as expansive as other forms, but it may work for certain individuals. The pictures and vocal recordings are both personalized in this device, and it works through physical touch.

AAC Device Video 1

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 21:34:40 UTC

This video shows a young boy with apraxia utilizing his speech device. This demonstrates an AAC app in function. This device is crucial for this young boy's communication as it helps him best express himself through speech.

AAC Video 2

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 21:39:50 UTC

This video shows a Ted Talk given by disability advocate Chris Klein. Klein is disabled himself and speaks upon his experiences as an individual with a disability. While this video is fairly old, I feel it is still important because it demonstrates that people use AAC in so many different ways. Not all people communicate in the same way, so this video really captures that idea through Klein's words and his actual usage of his communication device

Resource for AT

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 21:44:45 UTC

While this specific link is not to a direct assistive technology or AAC device, it can be used to find more information about both of those topics. Parents, educators, or AT users can use a type of search engine on the website to put in what their circumstances are and what they are looking to find more support in. This is a great resource for individuals who are looking to use more AT or more AAC in their classrooms or daily life.

Low-Tech Communication Devices

tup38261_ — 2023-11-28 21:49:48 UTC

There are a wide variety of low-tech options for those who still want to utilize AAC. High-tech AAC can be very expensive and not suitable for everyone. Many individuals may prefer to utilize a picture board where they can just point to symbols to make words and phrases. The example linked above combines picture boards and more high tech AAC. This device utilizes small pictures that the individual can manipulate by placing down on the small pads. These pads then read the symbol selected aloud. Though this may be a more expensive option, I think it is important to highlight that AAC can take many forms and is not always a high-tech form of communication.

Why I chose AAC

tup38261_ — 2023-11-29 02:06:00 UTC

I feel that AAC is an extremely powerful tool that can help so many different people and give them a voice. AAC can take a number of forms and can be extremely helpful in implementing UDL principles. I also have an interest in AAC as I am also an ASL student at Temple. Using sign as a form of communication has greatly expanded my vocabulary and ability to communicate with others which has inspired me to learn more about AAC in general. AAC allows all students to access material because of the many options that AAC has. Because of the many formats AAC has, this meets the UDL goal of action and because communication can be presented in many different ways with ways to interact with material. AAC also helps student meet the principle of representation because of the many ways in which AAC can be presented as discussed on this page. AAC helps accomplish engagement by providing different ways to motivate students who AAC.