From the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association website: http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/AAC/#types_aac
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. We all use AAC when we make facial expressions or gestures, use symbols or pictures, or write.
People with severe speech or language problems rely on AAC to supplement existing speech or replace speech that is not functional. Special augmentative aids, such as picture and symbol communication boards and electronic devices, are available to help people express themselves. This may increase social interaction, school performance, and feelings of self-worth. AAC users should not stop using speech if they are able to do so. The AAC aids and devices are used to enhance their communication.
Unaided communication systems – rely on the user’s body to convey messages. Examples include gestures, body language, and/or sign language.
Aided communication systems – require the use of tools or equipment in addition to the user’s body. Aided communication methods can range from paper and pencil to communication books or boards to devices that produce voice output (speech generating devices or SGD’s)and/or written output. Electronic communication aids allow the user to use picture symbols, letters, and/or words and phrases to create messages. Some devices can be programmed to produce different spoken languages.
Pitt Hopkins mom, Jessica Fletcher, shared her son Ian’s AAC journey at the 2018 Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation conference in Minneapolis.
Leaders in AAC, Dr. Caroline Ramsey Musselwhite and Dr. Gretchen Hanser presented our first Pitt Hopkins AAC Workshop in Washington DC, September 2015. This is a link to their website, AAC Intervention, which is excellent. You can also follow their Blog called AAC Girls.
Literacy for All: In conversation with Dr. Caroline Musselwhite: These 11 video clips and related learning guides provide an opportunity to enhance and support teacher practice in the area of literacy for students with significant disabilities.
The Angelman Syndrome Foundation, in collaboration with communication expert Erin Sheldon, M. Ed., has created a FREE new communication resource. The ASF has allowed the Pitt Hopkins community to access this Communication Training Series from their ASF website.
