AAC Praxis Prep

Direct Selection – Touch

The individual directly selects the target word or symbol by touching it in a communication book, single overlay device, or SGD.

Direct Selection – Laser Pointer

A laser pointer mounted to the head points at letters or symbols on a low-tech board for message selection.

Direct Selection – Head Tracking

Reflective dots on the head allow a device to track head movement for selecting items on a high-tech SGD.

Direct Selection – Eye Gaze

A high-tech AAC device uses infrared technology to track eye movements for communication and device control.

Indirect Selection – Visual Scanning

A switch is used to select a target while visually scanning items presented on the AAC system.

Indirect Selection – Auditory Scanning

The user listens to choices presented aloud and uses a switch to select the target.

What is partner-assisted scanning?

A communication partner presents options visually or auditorily, and the individual uses a cue (eye gaze, vocalization, etc.) to select the target.

How did the candidacy model view clients?

As “too something” or “not ready,” often excluding them from AAC.

How does the participation model view clients?

Everyone can communicate; focus is on removing barriers.

Is the candidacy model considered best practice?

No; it should NOT be used.

What are key principles of the participation model?

Ongoing assessment, supporting participation, identifying opportunity barriers, and acknowledging that technology alone does not make someone a competent communicator.

What are opaque symbols?

Symbols whose meaning is not obvious; require prior knowledge.
Examples: Written words, braille.

What are transparent symbols?

Symbols whose meaning is easily understood without prior knowledge.
Examples: Picture of water for “drink.”

What are translucent symbols?

Meaning becomes clear once explained or with context.
Example: Wave symbol for “ocean.”

What are iconic symbols?

Symbols that closely resemble what they represent.
Example: Picture of an apple.

What are non-iconic symbols?

No obvious relationship to the meaning; must be learned.
Examples: Letters, arbitrary shapes.

What are static symbols?

Symbols that do not move or change.
Example: Printed symbols on a board.

What are dynamic symbols?

Symbols that change or move, often digital or animated.
Example: Animated icons or GIFs.

What are arbitrary symbols?

Symbols with no inherent relationship to meaning.
Examples: +, #.

What are aided symbols?

Symbols requiring an external tool or device.
Examples: Picture cards, AAC devices.

What are unaided symbols?

Symbols produced with the body alone.
Examples: Gestures, facial expressions, ASL.

What are concrete symbols?

Represent physical, tangible objects.
Example: Mini spoon for “eat.”

What are abstract symbols?

Represent ideas or concepts, not tied to physical objects.
Example: Heart for “love.”

What are semantic symbols?

Symbols whose meaning is derived from language context.
Example: Book symbol for “reading.”

How does direct selection work?

The user directly touches, points, or uses eye gaze to choose symbols.
Best for: Users with good motor control.

How does scanning work in AAC?

The system presents options one at a time; the user selects with a switch or eyes.
Best for: Users with limited motor abilities.

What is unaided gestural communication?

Communicating with gestures or signs without tools.
Best for: Users who can gesture effectively.

What is aided gestural communication?

Gestures combined with tools like boards or devices.
Best for: Users needing extra communication support.

What is low-tech AAC?

Boards, cards, or written notes that do not require power.
Features: Simple, reliable, no maintenance.

What is high-tech AAC?

Devices or apps with speech output and advanced customization.
Best for: Users needing detailed, robust communication.