Augmentative and alternative communication systems can be used by anyone that has difficulties verbally communicating with others. Sometimes the usage is temporary, and sometimes the usage is permanent.
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) has been developed over the years due to technology. Before technology, people only used this communication mode through gestures, facial expressions, drawing, writing, pointing to photos, incorporating pictures, and written words. Students use to spell the words by pointing to each letter to communicate (American Speech-Language-Association, 2023).
With the advancement of technology, augmentative and alternative communication can be used by a touch of a button on a device such as an iPad, tablet, or computer, which helps to produce a voice known as a speech-generating device (American Speech-Language-Association, 2023).
Apps can be downloaded unto devices and can be used on the go. The communication apps will help eliminate the constant walking around with pictures, binders, and containers with writing materials for students to express themselves. The iPad with the app will be useful during recess or on a field trip when a student is outside and needs to express themselves quickly.
The AAC technological form of communication will be helpful for a student with autism in a classroom to communicate with the teacher and their peers.
Teachers and teacher candidates should familiarize themselves with the various AAC apps used frequently in schools.
Here are some communication apps that an educator might come across.
TouchChat
TouchChat is designed and customized to fit the various age groups and where children are developmentally by having pre-programmed apps available. The touchchat website also provides training and webinars on how to use the app (Speech and language kids, nd).
Avaz
The avaz communication App was created to be used by children with a diagnosis of autism. The app provides quick phrases that children might use regularly. The app also offers a zoom-in option to support visually impaired children. The buttons are also large enough for students with motor challenges.
These apps are generally recommended by a speech and language pathologist. Educators are not the ones who choose the apps for the students. The parents will communicate the app their child is using with the school, and the teacher will get training on how to use it to support the student in the classroom.
With the advancement of technology, augmentative and alternative communication can be used by a touch of a button on a device such as an iPad, tablet, or computer, which helps to produce a voice known as a speech-generating device (American Speech-Language-Association, 2023).
Apps can be downloaded unto devices and can be used on the go. The communication apps will help eliminate the constant walking around with pictures, binders, and containers with writing materials for students to express themselves. The iPad with the app will be useful during recess or on a field trip when a student is outside and needs to express themselves quickly.
Teachers and teacher candidates should familiarize themselves with the various AAC apps used frequently in schools.
Here are some communication apps that an educator might come across.
TouchChat
TouchChat is designed and customized to fit the various age groups and where children are developmentally by having pre-programmed apps available. The touchchat website also provides training and webinars on how to use the app (Speech and language kids, nd).
Avaz
The avaz communication App was created to be used by children with a diagnosis of autism. The app provides quick phrases that children might use regularly. The app also offers a zoom-in option to support visually impaired children. The buttons are also large enough for students with motor challenges.
These apps are generally recommended by a speech and language pathologist. Educators are not the ones who choose the apps for the students. The parents will communicate the app their child is using with the school, and the teacher will get training on how to use it to support the student in the classroom.
References:
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (nd). Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). https://www.asha.org/public/
Speech and Language Kids (nd). Communication Apps: The Best AAC Apps for Kids. https://www.
https://www.up.ac.za/centre-
Courtesy of Sue-Ann@NUO-OTECC
No comments:
Post a Comment