Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Lecture Notes

This flashcard set covers the types of AAC displays, scanning methods, activation strategies, types of feedback, aided and unaided communication, synthesized speech categories, and barriers to AAC access.

Fixed Display

Symbols are fixed in a particular location; also known as a static display.

Dynamic display

Computer screen displays that can be changed to a new set of symbols.

Hybrid Display

Electronic fixed displays with a dynamic component, such as lighting changes that show what is available for activation.

Directed (inverse) scanning

A scanning method where the indicator moves as long as a switch is held down and the selection is made when the switch is released.

Automatic scanning

Continuous cursor movement according to a preset pattern; the user activates a switch to stop the indicator at the choice.

Step scanning

The indicator moves through a pattern one step at a time for each switch activation; used by individuals with severe motor or cognitive restrictions.

Direct Selection

An access method where the user directly selects a target symbol or message using a finger, hand, or other body part.

Scanning

An access method where items are presented individually or in groups and the user signals when the target item appears.

Timed (Dwell) activation

A strategy where the user identifies an item and maintains contact for a preset time before the selection occurs to reduce accidental activations.

Release activation

A strategy where the user touches the display and moves across symbols, with the selection occurring only when contact is released.

Filtered/averaged activation

Technology that averages movement patterns and selects the item targeted most consistently; useful for individuals with tremors.

Activation feedback

In-the-moment feedback such as a click, flash, or vibration that informs the user a selection was registered.

Message feedback

Feedback that informs the user about what has been selected, such as words appearing in a text window or being spoken.

Unaided AAC

Communication methods that require no external equipment and rely entirely on the user's body, such as manual signs and gestures.

Aided AAC

Communication methods requiring external physical tools, software, or equipment like picture books or speech-generating devices.

Text-to-Speech (Phoneme-based)

Algorithms that convert typed letters into acoustic phonemes, allowing for unlimited novel expression.

Digitized Speech (Recorded Audio)

Human speech recorded directly into a device; retains natural intonation but is limited to pre-recorded words or phrases.

Number of Items

The total count of individual symbols or codes on a single AAC screen or page.

Orientation

The position of a display relative to the user (horizontal, angled, vertical) to account for postural control and sight.

Opportunity Barriers

External hurdles to AAC use, including policies, practices, attitudes, knowledge, and skills of partners.

Policy Barriers

Official legislative or regulatory hurdles, such as a hospital not allowing personal electronics.

Practice Barriers

Common habits or procedures that limit access, such as keeping a device in a backpack during school.

Attitude Barriers

Negative or limiting beliefs held by individuals regarding the capabilities of an AAC user.

Knowledge Barriers

A lack of information on the part of communication partners regarding how to use or maintain the AAC system.

Skill Barriers

When partners conceptually understand AAC but lack the hands-on clinical skill to implement interaction strategies.

Access Barriers

Internal limitations stemming from the user's physical, sensory, cognitive, or linguistic capabilities.

The SETT Framework

An educational and clinical scaffolding tool created by Dr. Joy Zabala standing for Student, Environments, Tasks, and Tools.

Feature Matching

A process to determine the most appropriate AAC options based on a client’s needs compared against available technology features.

Multimodal System

The use of multiple forms of AAC (high-tech, low-tech, and unaided) to meet diverse communication demands across life.

Spoken communication

A personal and immediate form of communication that is context-dependent, transient, and utilizes prosody and vocal inflections.