Communication Through Technology A look at Augmentative Alternative

Communication Through Technology: A look at Augmentative Alternative Communication Systems Whitney Casey-Heatherman Marshall University Communication Disorders 315

What are Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) Systems? n “AAC systems are defined as nonspeech systems that involve some device or picture display to aid the nonverbal user in communicative interactions” (Bloom & Ferrand, 1997). n There are several different types of AAC systems ranging from an alphabet board to speech output assistive technology.

How are AAC Systems selected for an individual? AAC systems are fitted to the needs of the individual. n The selection process is usually a team approach. n The team includes the individual being fitted with the device, family members of the individual, and the speech-language pathologist (Communication Needs, 2005). n The selection of a system looks at the cognitive level and physical level of functioning. n

How are AAC Systems selected for an Individual? n The Multimodal Communication Screening Task For Persons with Aphasia (MCST-A) can be used to formally fit a person with a device.

Types of AAC Systems n “The types of AAC Systems available range from low-tech pointing boards with pictures, symbols, or words, all the way to extremely high-tech devices such as portable voice output communication aids (VOCAs) that allow the user to “speak” by means of computer generated synthesized speech”(King, 1999).

Types of AAC Systems This device is known as the Alphatalker it is a device that uses overlays on top of keys. The overlays can be changed to fit the vocabulary needs of a person. n This device is a VOCA device, which means that it will produce synthesized speech. n

Types of AAC Systems This is the Dynavox, this device is a computer based system. The individual will click the pictures that they wish to use and then press speak. n This provides synthesized speech. n

Types of AAC Systems n Image by Lingraphicare, Inc. and retrieved from www. aphasia. com This is the Lingraphica. It’s features include: quick speak, a favorites page, easy phrase-builder, easy photo additions, and online help on how to use the device (Lingraphicare, Inc. , 2006)

Computer Software Computer software is also available for use that can help supplement communication. n Intelli. Talk II is a piece of software that can be purchased that is compatible with both Mac’s and PC’s. n This software has a spell check and a word predictor. It is easy to use and can be used with a mouse, keyboard, switches, or Intelli. Keys (Messina & Messina, 2006). n

Available Switches n There are switches available to use with these devices. n Some common switches include: Joysticks, Oversized Buttons, and Foot Pedals.

Available Switches n These are examples of joysticks that may be purchased and used with AAC Systems.

Available Switches n This is an example of an oversized button that may be used with AAC Systems.

Available Switches n This is an example of a foot pedal that can be used with AAC systems.

References Bloom, R. L. , & Ferrand, C. T. (1997). Introduction to organic and neurogenic disorders of communication. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon. Communication needs (2005). Retrieved November 12, 2006, from http: //atto. buffalo. edu/registered/ATBasics/Populations/aac/using. Devices. php. King, T. W. (1999). Assistive technology: essential human factors. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon. Messina, C. M. , & Messina, J. J. (2006). Description of AAC software. Retrieved November 12, 2006, from http: //www. coping. org/specialneeds/assistech/aacsoft. htm. Speak your mind (2006). Retrieved November 12, 2006, from http: //www. aphasia. com.