Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Practice Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definitions, strategies, assessment processes, and barriers related to Augmentative and Alternative Communication based on lecture notes.

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

A system designed to supplement or compensate for impairments in speech-language production or comprehension for individuals with severe expressive communication disorders.

Core vocabulary

High-frequency words, such as verbs and pronouns, that make up 80% of daily speech.

Fringe vocabulary

Lower-frequency nouns that are specific to certain topics, environments, or interests.

Knowledge gap (AAC candidacy barrier)

The misconception that students must possess "readiness" skills or cognitive prerequisites, such as understanding cause-and-effect, before being eligible for AAC intervention.

Inconsistent access barrier

A situation where an AAC device is not available in all settings (home, classroom, playground), denying a student the ability to participate as a full communication partner.

Aided Language Stimulation (Augmented Input)

A strategy where the communication partner models AAC use by pointing to symbols on the system while simultaneously speaking to the student.

Classroom teacher’s primary AAC responsibility

To help incorporate curriculum-related vocabulary into the system and facilitate the student’s use of the device during daily learning activities.

Feature Matching

A systematic assessment process where a student’s specific motor, visual, cognitive, and linguistic strengths are matched to the features of available AAC tools.

Vocabulary censorship

An ethical barrier involving the hiding of buttons, which denies a student linguistic autonomy and the right to express their identity or report abuse under Erin’s Law.

Impact of AAC on Natural Speech

Research indicates that AAC use does not hinder but can actually support and improve natural speech development while providing functional communication.

Platform-first approach barrier

A systemic district-wide policy for preferred devices that often leads to a "one-size-fits-all" model instead of individualized feature-matching.

Zero-exclusion policy

The principle that no individual should be excluded from AAC intervention regardless of the severity of their disability, age, or cognitive level.

Untrained communication partner barriers

Behaviors such as dominating the conversation, asking only yes/no questions, or failing to provide enough "wait time" for the student to process and respond.

SLP role in AAC literacy

Ensuring AAC systems include access to spelling (orthography) and advocating for goals that include decoding, encoding, and shared reading.

Communicative Autonomy

The student's right to express themselves freely in the modality of their choice and to have that communication respected and responded to by others.

Causes of AAC device abandonment

The leading reasons for discontinuation of device use, primarily a lack of family involvement in assessment and inadequate training for communication partners.