AAC

What is Direct Selection?

Touch, point, or use eye gaze to pick options

Fast; tools like keyguards help with precision

Best For: Users with good motor control

What is Scanning?

Options shown one at a time; select via switch or eyes 

Slower but works for severe motor issues 

Best For: Users with limited motor abilities 

What is Unaided?

Communicate with gestures or sign language

No tools needed; gestures can be clear or taught

Best For: Users who can gesture effectively

What is Aided?

Combine gestures with tools like boards or devices

Tools help convey the complex messages

Best For: Users needing extra communication support

Low-Tech AAC

Use boards, cards, or written notes

Simple, reliable, no power needed

Quick, low-maintenance communication

High-Tech AAC

Use devices with speech output or apps

Customizable, advanced features for complex needs

Best for: Users needed detailed communication

Opaque Symbols?

Meaning is not obvious, requires prior knowledge

Ex. Written words, braille, abstract shapes

Transparent Symbols?

Meaning is easily understood without prior knowledge

Ex. Picture of water for “drink”, restroom sign

Transluscent Symbols?

Requires explanation but becomes clear with context

Ex. Wave symbol for “ocean”

Iconic Symbol?

Closely resemble the object or concept they represent

Ex. Picture of an apple for “apple”

Non-Iconic Symbol?

No obvious relationship to meaning; must be learned

Ex. Letters, arbitrary shapes

Static Symbols?

Symbols that do not change or move

Ex. Printed symbols on a communication board

Dynamic Symbols?

Change or include movement, Often digital or animated

Ex. Animated icons, GIFs in AAC devices

Arbitrary Symbol?

No inherent relationship to meaning; defined by convention

Ex. “+” for addition, “#” symbol

Aided Symbols?

Require external tools or eqiupment

Ex. Picture cards, AAC devices

Unaided Symbols?

Use the body, no external tools required

Ex. Gestures, sign language, facial expressions

Concrete Symbols?

Represent tangible, physical objects

Ex. Miniature spoon for “eat”

Abstract Symbols?

Represent ideas or concepts, less tied to physical objects

Ex. Heart Symbol for ‘“love”

Semantic Symbols?

Derive meaning from context or language usage

Ex. Book Symbol for “Reading”

What are four methods of direction selection?

Touch

Laser Pointers

Head Tracking

Eye Gaze

What are four methods of Indirect Selection?

Visual Scanning

Auditory Scanning

Partner-assisted scanning

Touch - Direct Selection?

Individual directly selects the target word(s) or phrase by finding it in their communication book, single overlay device, or speech generating device

Laser Pointer - Direct Selection?

Fixed on the side of one’s head to point at letters or symbols on a low tech communication or alphabet board

Head Tracking - Direct Selection?

reflective dots placed on the individuals head or accessory track head movements to use a high tech SGD

Eye Gaze - Direct Selection?

High tech AAC with infrared technology that tracks eye movements for communication and device control

Visual Scanning - Indirect Selection?

Individual uses a switch to select the target by visually scanning a set of choices presented on an AAC system

Auditory Scanning - Indirect Selection?

Individual uses a switch to select the target by listening to a set of choices presented audibly on an AAC system

Partner-assisted Scanning - Indirect Selection?

Communication partner visually or audibly presents a set of choices, and the individual selects the target by using a designated communication method (e.g. eye contact, vocalization)

What is Neuro-assisted AAC?

Uses electrical signals from small muscle movements to control a communication device

Uses surface electrodes to detect bioelectrical signals from voluntary muscle contractions, these signals, often from a small, consistently controlled muscle group, are converted into switch activations that control an AAC device

Who is Neuro-assisted AAC designed for?

Designed for people with significant limitations who can’t use traditional access methods

What is the name of the switch typically used with Neuro-assisted AAC?

Myoswitches

What are Myoswitches?

Work by detecting tiny muscle contractions through biofeedback, allowing users to activate messages without needing large or precise movements

When is Neuro-assisted AAC recommended?

Provide example?

When touchscreens, eye gaze, or switches aren’t accessible

For example. a child with severe cerebral palsy might not be able to point, but can still trigger a myoswitch using a facial or neck muscle